For NGOs to win funding, it is very important to submit a strong application especially because there is huge competition for seeking grants from UNDEF. As a worldwide opportunity, NGOs need to consider some important elements that matter in the application form. Keeping in view of the challenges faced by organizations in developing countries, we have developed a guide that can assist them in writing an effective proposal.

Disclaimer: This guide is intended to help NGOs apply to the United Nations Democracy Fund (UNDEF) grant program. This is an unofficial guide that does not guarantee funding or support to applicants. The guide is intended to provide NGOs with suggestions. Readers are advised to use the guide at their own discretion.

The following information is included in this guide:

1. Before You Apply: Learning About the United Nations Democracy Fund:  About the Fund, Purpose of the Fund, Types of Projects Fundable, Funding Available, Where Does Funding Come From? Length of Projects, Application Dates, How to Apply, Where to Apply, Who Can Apply
2. Steps to Completing the UNDEF Application Form: Applicant Information, Project Information, Project Description, Partners and Sponsors, Budget, Commitments,
3. Submitting Your Application On-line.
4. Best Practices for Creating a Successful Application

Funding Available:  Projects range from $50,000 to $400,000. The average project is $200,000.

Where does the funding come from?  All funding for UNDEF projects is from voluntary contributions.

Length of Projects:  Projects are for two years or less.

Application Dates:  Proposals can be submitted between 15 November 2014 through 31 December 2014.

How to Apply:  Proposals are only accepted on-line during the application date period. Proposals can be submitted in either English or French.

Where to Apply:  Proposals must be submitted on-line during the application date window at the UNDEF websit.

Who Can Apply? The following types of organizations are eligible to apply for funding:

• Civil society organizations and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that promote democracy. This category traditionally receives most of the funding.
• Independent and constitutional bodies such as election commissions, ombudsman institutions, national human rights institutions, and other independent governance bodies.
• Global and regional inter-government bodies, associations, and organizations other than the United Nations.
• If you are not sure if your organization is eligible to apply for UNDEF funding, go to the website UNDEF website.

The United Nations Democracy Fund (UNDEF) is an excellent opportunity for NGOs of all types and sizes (from local, to regional, to national) to apply for funding to support democracy-related projects and programs.

The UNDEF allocates 70% of its budget for projects in a country. This means that local NGOs can apply without competing against large international organizations.