Taiwan Foundation for Democracy (TFD) International Grants Program

Deadline: 15-Dec-2026

The Taiwan Foundation for Democracy (TFD) International Grants Program provides financial support to international non-profit organizations, academic institutions, think tanks, and related organizations working to advance democracy and human rights. Grants generally range from US$3,000 to US$20,000, with a maximum award of US$100,000, for projects that can be completed within a single calendar year. The program prioritizes initiatives involving democracy promotion, human rights, civil society strengthening, research, advocacy, education, capacity building, and international cooperation, particularly projects relevant to Taiwan, East Asia, Northeast Asia, and Southeast Asia. Taiwan Foundation for Democracy International Grants Program Overview The Taiwan Foundation for Democracy (TFD) established its international grants program to support global efforts that strengthen democratic institutions, protect human rights, and expand international cooperation on democracy. TFD is recognized as the first national democracy assistance foundation established in Asia. Through its international grantmaking, the Foundation works with organizations and institutions that share its commitment to democratic values and human rights. The program supports projects that generate knowledge, strengthen civil society, encourage democratic participation, and promote international understanding of democracy and human rights. What Are the Main Objectives of the TFD International Grants Program? The program is designed to support initiatives that contribute to democratic development and human rights protection at national, regional, and international levels.

Key priorities include:

Promoting democracy and human rights worldwide Sharing and applying Taiwan’s experience in democratic development Strengthening civil society organizations and democratic networks Addressing challenges to democracy and human rights posed by China Supporting democratic development in East Asia Strengthening democracy and human rights in Northeast and Southeast Asia Increasing international understanding of democratic institutions and human rights systems Encouraging cooperation among organizations working toward common democratic goals What Types of Projects Does TFD Support? The International Grants Program supports a broad range of activities related to democracy, human rights, research, advocacy, and education. Projects that strengthen international democratic cooperation Projects should demonstrate a clear connection to the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy’s mission and priorities. Who Is Eligible? Eligible applicants are organizations and institutions based outside Taiwan that have a demonstrated interest or track record in democracy and human rights.

Eligible applicants include:

International non-governmental organizations (NGOs) International non-profit organizations Academic institutions Universities and research institutions Think tanks Other relevant non-profit organizations For-profit organizations are not eligible for this international grants program. Applicants should also have the institutional capacity to manage the proposed project, administer grant funds, and complete the required reporting. What Is the Grant Amount? The majority of TFD international grants are between US$3,000 and US$20,000. The program’s approximate average grant size is US$5,000, although larger grants may be awarded when justified by the scope and quality of the proposed project. The maximum grant amount is US$100,000. TFD generally does not fully finance projects. Applicants are therefore encouraged to obtain additional financial support from other donors or funding sources. What Expenses Can the Grant Cover? TFD funding is intended primarily for direct project expenses that are necessary to implement the approved activities. Applicants should prepare a detailed and realistic budget that clearly connects requested costs to project activities.

Funding generally cannot be used for:

Capital expenditures Permanent staff salaries Fixed overhead costs Expenses unrelated to the approved project Activities outside the approved project scope How Long Can Projects Last? Projects funded under the International Grants Program must be completed within one calendar year. TFD does not normally provide multi-year funding commitments. Successful applicants enter into a grant agreement with TFD that establishes the conditions, responsibilities, implementation requirements, and reporting obligations. How to Apply for the TFD International Grants Program Applicants should prepare their proposal and supporting documentation carefully because incomplete applications will not be reviewed.

Step 1: Confirm Applicant Eligibility

Verify that your organization:

Is based outside Taiwan Is a non-profit organization, academic institution, think tank, or eligible related organization Has an appropriate legal status Has the capacity to implement and manage the proposed project Is working on activities relevant to democracy or human rights

Step 2: Develop a Relevant Project

Design a project that clearly contributes to democracy and human rights.

The proposal should explain:

The problem or democratic challenge being addressed The program is particularly relevant to organizations working on democratic governance, human rights advocacy, civil society development, democracy education, and regional democratic cooperation. Tips for Preparing a Strong Application Applicants can improve the clarity and competitiveness of their proposals by following several basic principles.

Demonstrate clear alignment: Explain exactly how the project supports TFD’s democracy and human rights objectives.

Define a specific problem: Avoid broad statements and identify the concrete democratic or human rights challenge the project will address.

Use measurable objectives: State what the project will achieve and how results will be measured.

Provide a realistic budget: Make sure every requeste