Taiwan Foundation for Democracy - International Grants

The Taiwan Foundation for Democracy (TFD) is a pioneering institution in Asia, established to support and promote democracy and human rights both within Taiwan and internationally. Founded as the first national democracy assistance foundation in Asia, TFD focuses on reinforcing Taiwan’s democratic system, promoting democratic development across Asia, and contributing to global democratization efforts. The Foundation’s international reach and mission to collaborate with like-minded organizations reflect its strategic importance in the global democracy support landscape. TFD's International Grants Program is specifically intended to support nonprofit organizations based outside of Taiwan. Eligible applicants include international non-governmental organizations, academic institutions, think tanks, and other related entities that work on issues of democracy and human rights. Through this program, TFD seeks to support projects that promote democratic values, human rights awareness, and institution-building, particularly in East Asia and areas affected by authoritarian influence. The Foundation prioritizes proposals that align with its mission and emphasize Taiwan’s unique democratic experiences or address challenges related to China’s internal or external actions impacting human rights and democracy. The program supports a broad range of project categories, including advocacy initiatives aimed at building civil society networks; research projects that offer analytical and empirical insights into democracy and human rights issues; conferences and workshops that convene experts to engage in dialogue; publications that disseminate knowledge through various media formats; and educational programs designed to strengthen democratic and human rights awareness through training and capacity-building activities. Applications for projects to be implemented in 2026 are organized into three funding rounds. The first round had a deadline of August 15, 2025, with decisions notified in November. The second round closed on December 15, 2025, and applicants are expected to be notified by March 2026. A third round is scheduled, with an application deadline of April 15, 2026, and notifications expected in July. For each round, projects must be submitted no later than the deadline to be considered. Submissions include a hard copy of the Application Form with the original signature of the organization’s head, as well as electronic PDF versions of additional documents such as a project plan, budget, registration proof, and the most recent annual report or financial statement. These electronic materials must be emailed, and the total size of all files combined must not exceed 10 MB. Submissions that are late, incomplete, or fail to follow the stated process will not be reviewed. Applications are reviewed by independent evaluators with expertise in democracy and human rights. Evaluators assess alignment with TFD’s mission, anticipated impact, project feasibility, applicant qualifications, significance of the project theme, and clarity and appropriateness of the proposed budget. Final decisions are based on reviewers’ recommendations. Projects funded in the first round may use grants for up to 12 months; those in the second round may use funds for up to 8 months; and third-round projects are limited to 4-month durations, in accordance with TFD’s fiscal year structure. This grant program is recurring and follows an annual cycle. Interested applicants should begin preparations well in advance of their desired project start date, as review timelines and notification periods require several months of lead time.

Ensure hard copy is physically delivered before deadline; postmarks not accepted.