People Powered 2026 Call for Applications: Climate Democracy Accelerator, Youth Participation Programme and Rising Stars Mentorship – Up to $25,000 in Funding

Overview

People Powered has opened applications for international programmes aimed at strengthening participatory democracy, supporting youth involvement in public decisions, and helping governments and civil society organisations develop inclusive public participation initiatives. The available opportunities include the Climate Democracy Accelerator, the Democratic Innovations Accelerator, and the Rising Stars Mentorship Programme. These initiatives are designed for individuals and groups working to involve communities directly in decisions that affect their environment, public services, education, health, and other areas of everyday life.

Who can apply

Applications are open to eligible governments, civil society organisations, government and civil society partnerships, and individuals developing participatory programmes. The Climate Democracy Accelerator specifically invites government and civil society partnerships worldwide that are working in the areas of renewable energy and regenerative agriculture. Interested applicants must review the specific requirements and selection criteria for their chosen programme before applying.

What you get

Successful participants can receive various forms of support depending on the specific programme, including funding of up to $25,000. For the Climate Democracy Accelerator, this funding includes a $10,000 grant for every participant, alongside an additional $15,000 available for the top six action plans. Additional benefits across the programmes include six months of mentorship and training, peer learning opportunities, an all-expenses-paid workshop trip, and one-to-one guidance from experienced practitioners in participatory democracy.

How to apply

Applicants must review the requirements and selection criteria for their chosen programme and submit the application form along with all required documents before the official deadline.

Key dates

The application deadline is 27 November 2026 at 11:59 p.m. UTC.