What we fund
We fund work that strengthens the long-term resilience of democratic systems. Like an immune system, democracy requires sustained care, diverse actors, and the capacity to respond to new threats. We invest in non-partisan initiatives that contribute to durable systemic change.
We take a partnership-driven approach to funding, prioritizing long-term relationships and flexible, mission-aligned support.
Our funding strategy is structured around four interconnected pillars:
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Pillar 1: Safeguard the Public Square
Objective: Ensure an inclusive, open and resilient public square for democratic debate and civic engagement.
Types of work:
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Supporting independent investigative journalism
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Countering intimidation, harassment, hate and disinformation
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Addressing foreign interference, transnational repression, and coordinated efforts to distort democratic debate
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Advancing pluralism narratives
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Pillar 2: Foster Diverse Participation
Objective: Expand free, informed and meaningful participation in public life, especially among under-represented communities.
Types of work:
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Advancing civic education and developing leadership pipelines
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Supporting issue-based and values-driven campaigns
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Amplifying the voices and civic participation of communities targeted by hate, scapegoating, or repression
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Supporting innovative deliberation and decision processes
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Pillar 3: Hold Power to Account
Objective: Ensure that public power and political and economic influence are subject to effective accountability and clear, enforceable legal safeguards.
Types of work:
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Supporting investigative, watchdog, and accountability initiatives
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Advancing transparency, access to information, and oversight mechanisms
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Supporting strategic litigation, legal advocacy, or policy reform efforts
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Defence and protection of individuals and organizations facing retaliation for investigative or public-interest work
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Pillar 4: Shape the Democracy of Tomorrow
Objective: Support experimentation and long-term thinking to renew democratic institutions and practices, notably in ways that advance reconciliation
Types of work:
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Realizing artistic initiatives that expand democratic imagination
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Developing and testing concrete democratic alternatives
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Experimenting with citizens’ assemblies and other participatory formats to explore new forms of collective decision-making
