In some of the world’s most repressive and fragile environments, modest funding is making a powerful impact. According to the National Endowment for Democracy (NED), 88 percent of its 2024 direct grants were under $150,000, yet these small investments have helped frontline activists achieve significant breakthroughs in the fight for freedom. With these resources, NED-supported partners in 2024 exposed corruption, broke through censorship barriers, mobilized mass movements, and pushed for international accountability. The grants, described by NED as “venture capital for democracy,” are strategically targeted to empower local leaders with the credibility, courage, and insight needed to drive change. These efforts are transforming high-risk environments by promoting transparency, defending human rights, and advancing democratic values where they are most under threat. Read more here.
Source: National Endowment for Democracy