SUBMISSION DATE EXTENDED TO AUGUST 31

Washington, D.C. — The Consortium for Elections and Political Process Strengthening (CEPPS) today announced a new grants program designed to increase the political participation of historically marginalized populations in electoral processes. Qualified applicants include non-U.S.-based regional and local nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) or private, non-profit organizations, professional associations, and relevant special interest associations or coalitions.

These grants are intended to counter discrimination against marginalized populations, which remains entrenched in many societies and is frequently reflected in political, legal, and financial institutions. This discrimination creates barriers to access and limits opportunities for meaningful participation in public life by groups including women, youth, persons with disabilities, ethnic and religious minorities, LGBTI people, indigenous peoples, and other marginalized communities.

Through the provision of grants to local and regional organizations, CEPPS will support projects that address issues of particular importance to these communities. The program, titled “Increasing Participation of Traditionally Marginalized Populations in Electoral Processes,” is made possible by the generous support of the American people through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

By supporting projects that seek to decrease barriers to entry, reform discriminatory laws and practices, strengthen the ability of citizens to participate in political processes, and empower local stakeholders, CEPPS aims to bring members of marginalized communities into the political fold and enhance the quality of inclusive democracy in their respective countries or regions.

The deadline for submissions is August 31, 2017. For detailed information on how to apply, read our Request for Statements of Interest.

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The Consortium for Elections and Political Processes Strengthening (CEPPS) is a joint venture of three partners— the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES), the International Republican Institute (IRI), and the National Democratic Institute (NDI). Since 1995, the CEPPS partners have worked to support the development of democratic institutions, processes, and practices in more than 140 countries around the world.