Democracy Innovation Lab Opens Applications for 2026 Community-Building Fellows

A new initiative is launching to strengthen democratic resilience worldwide. The Keseb Democracy Innovation Lab is now accepting applications for its 2026 cohort. The program seeks to support ten early-stage projects focused on reimagining community-building. The deadline for nominations is January 16, 2026.

This initiative comes at a critical time for democracies globally. The lab aims to provide innovators with the tools and funding to foster cross-group belonging. The goal is to build more inclusive and resilient societies from the ground up.

Democracy Innovation Lab Focuses on Grassroots Solutions

The inaugural iLab theme is “reimagining community-building for inclusive and resilient democracies.” It will select ten innovative solutions. These projects must aim to foster a strong sense of belonging in diverse societies.

Studies cited by the organization show a direct link between belonging and democratic commitment. Individuals who feel connected are more likely to uphold democratic principles. This makes community-building a powerful lever for change.

The program offers significant support to selected fellows. This includes eight months of capacity-building programming. Sessions will be delivered both virtually and in person.

Practical Support and Funding for Innovators

Fellows will receive direct mentorship and seed funding. They will work with leading futures-thinking experts. The program also emphasizes peer-to-peer exchange within a transnational community.

Each project will receive $10,000 in seed funding at the program’s conclusion. This financial support is crucial for early-stage initiatives. It allows innovators to scale their ideas and maximize impact.

The lab is open to a wide range of professionals. Democracy practitioners, grassroots activists, and journalists are encouraged to apply. Researchers, technologists, and artists are also welcome.

Eligible projects must be nonpartisan and not-for-profit. They can be at the idea, pilot, or post-pilot redesign stage. The project lead must be deeply committed and able to participate fully.

The Keseb Democracy Innovation Lab represents a proactive effort to address democratic challenges. By empowering local innovators, it seeks to build a stronger global democratic future. This program highlights the growing importance of community-level action.

Thought you’d like to know

What is the main goal of the Democracy Innovation Lab?

The lab aims to catalyze early-stage innovations that reimagine community-building. Its focus is on fostering cross-group belonging in diverse societies. The ultimate goal is to create more inclusive and resilient democracies.

Who can apply for the 2026 iLab cohort?

The program welcomes a diverse range of innovators. This includes activists, journalists, researchers, technologists, and artists. Applicants must be leading a nonpartisan, not-for-profit project aligned with the theme.

What are the key benefits for selected fellows?

Fellows receive eight months of expert-led programming and mentorship. They join a transnational community of peers. Each project also gets $10,000 in seed funding upon completion.

What are the application deadlines?

Project lead nominations are due by January 16, 2026. The full project pitch must be submitted by February 2, 2026. All deadlines are at 11:59 PM Eastern Time.

What stage should a project be in for eligibility?

Projects can be at the idea, pilot, or post-pilot redesign stage. Idea-stage projects must have a design but no implementation yet. Pilots must be less than two years old.