Democracy x AI Cohort

• Eligibility Criteria: Open to global changemakers developing AI projects that strengthen democracy. Applicants can submit early ideas, prototypes, or deployed tools that demonstrate positive applications of AI for democratic practices. Teams or individuals should demonstrate the capacity to develop AI solutions that enhance civic engagement, transparency, accountability, or digital rights. Only complete applications submitted when the call opens in 2026 will be considered.
• Type of Funding: Cohort-based funding and support for AI projects that transition from prototype to sustainable impact.
  Includes access to mentorship, community resources, and connections to stakeholders.
• Target Region: Global
• Application Language: Not specified (English is assumed for submissions).

Objectives

• Strengthen democratic institutions, practices, and civic engagement through AI.
• Support projects that detect disinformation, enhance transparency, enable participatory governance, and protect digital rights.
• Facilitate the transition of AI innovations from prototypes to lasting, sustainable democratic impact.
• Connect innovators with a global community of changemakers, mentors, and resources.

Project Themes

• Diversifying information flows and sharing fact-based information.
• Using AI/LLMs for fact-checking or neutral content moderation.
• Identity verification to prevent bots and fake accounts.
• Facilitating consensus-building among polarized communities.
• Increasing transparency in government decision-making.
• Integrating public input into governance processes.
• Developing accountability mechanisms for public officials.
• Building platforms that enable collective action and civic participation.
• Protecting freedom of expression and association online.
• Empowering citizens to resist propaganda and polarization.
• Expanding access to civic education and resources.
• Defending the digital public sphere from authoritarian misuse.

Financial Support: Total cohort funding: $1,000,000 globally.

Application Deadline: The call for proposals will open in 2026. Exact dates to be announced.

See here to learn more and apply

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