Call for
Inclusive Democracy Accelerator
About Organisation
People Powered is a global hub dedicated to advancing participatory and deliberative democracy. Their mission is to empower civil society and government leaders to collaboratively design and implement programs that place people at the heart of decision-making processes. Through a combination of technical support, peer learning, and practical tools, People Powered strengthens the capacity of governments and civic organizations to create inclusive governance systems that reflect diverse community needs.
The organization is particularly committed to ensuring that historically marginalized groups—including women, youth, and displaced individuals—are actively involved in shaping public policies. People Powered believes that when these communities are given a platform to share their voices and priorities, the resulting decisions are more equitable and impactful.
To further this vision, People Powered runs a range of programs and resources, including training workshops, mentoring initiatives, and digital toolkits such as the Participation Playbook. Their efforts have a global footprint, with active programs in Latin America, Africa, Asia, and Eastern Europe. By fostering collaboration between governments and civil society, People Powered aims to build more resilient, just, and participatory societies where every voice matters in shaping public life and policies.
About the Grant
The Inclusive Democracy Accelerator (IDA) is a flagship program by People Powered designed to strengthen participatory governance practices among civil society and government leaders. This six-month accelerator focuses on embedding effective and inclusive strategies into existing participatory or deliberative programs, particularly those aimed at improving the involvement of marginalized groups such as women, youth, and displaced persons.
Selected participants will develop and refine an action plan aimed at enhancing inclusion in their ongoing initiatives. The program offers a comprehensive support system, including step-by-step resources like the Participation Playbook, live training sessions, interactive online courses, and access to a dedicated mentor. A highlight of the program is a fully-funded two-day international workshop in Nairobi, Kenya, fostering in-person peer learning and global collaboration.
Through this accelerator, People Powered aims to provide participants with practical tools, expert guidance, and a supportive community to help advance democratic practices and ensure that participatory programs are truly representative. By empowering both civil society organizations and government officials to co-create inclusive initiatives, the grant fosters meaningful engagement, stronger civic trust, and impactful public decision-making rooted in community priorities.
Who can Apply?
The Inclusive Democracy Accelerator is open to civil society organizations and government representatives who are actively working on participatory or deliberative democracy initiatives. Applicants must already be managing or co-creating participatory programs focused on community engagement and inclusive decision-making processes.
Eligibility requirements include:
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Civil society organizations collaborating with local, regional, or national government authorities to plan or manage participatory initiatives.
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Government officials, staff members, or policymakers who seek to improve the inclusivity of existing participatory processes by engaging marginalized communities, such as women, youth, and displaced persons.
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Applicants must be based in regions of Latin America, Africa, Asia, or Eastern Europe.
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The organization or individual must demonstrate a strong commitment to enhancing the participation of historically excluded groups in public policy or budget-related decision-making.
Each organization or government agency should nominate one lead participant with working proficiency in English. While the program’s cohort sessions are in English, mentorship and learning materials are also available in Spanish, Portuguese, and French. The nominated individual must be capable of leading the initiative, coordinating team efforts, attending all virtual and in-person workshops, and delivering project progress reports throughout the program.
How to Apply?
Interested applicants must submit a proposal outlining their existing participatory initiative and their plan to enhance the inclusion of marginalized groups. The application should designate a lead participant and demonstrate collaboration between a civil society organization and a government body. Selected candidates will be guided through a project planning and mentorship process. All submissions must be completed before the deadline.
Application Deadline
Applications for the Inclusive Democracy Accelerator must be submitted by 1 July 2025. Late entries will not be considered, and only complete applications from eligible countries will be reviewed.
Last Date To Apply
The final date to apply for this opportunity is 1 July 2025. All eligible organizations and individuals are encouraged to submit their applications well before the deadline.
Grant Amount
While there is no direct financial grant amount stated, the program covers all expenses for a two-day international workshop in Nairobi and provides mentorship, training resources, and global networking opportunities.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
