Organisations working to strengthen democracy locally or across borders often face barriers such as limited resources, low visibility, or insufficient political support. Whether it involves running a citizens’ assembly, a participatory budgeting process, a civic tech platform, or a community forum, many initiatives hold significant potential but need support to scale.

Scaling becomes possible only when the right conditions are in place.

Through our newly launched open calls, we offer funding, empirical testing, and hands-on validation to help expand and strengthen democratic innovations.

Whether you're ready to test bold new ideas or eager to share and adapt proven models, our programmes are designed to help you take the next step in scaling democratic innovations.

Who can apply?

Local authorities, civil society organisations, NGOs, research teams, cooperatives, and mission-driven companies established in countries eligible under HORIZON-CL2-2024-DEMOCRACY-01-12 (Annex B, pp. 9–10–11).

📅 Registrations are open until 31 March.

📝 Submit a declaration of interest by 31 Jan. to receive support.

We help you submit a strong application

Get feedback before submitting your full proposal! Submit a declaration of interest by 31 January 2026.

Tell us about your project idea and the scaling challenges you hope to address.

We will review your input, answer questions, and guide you toward the programme that best fits your needs.

👉Declaration of interest form
👉Instructions on how to apply

Questions? We’re here to help. Check our Q&A document or reach out directly at opencalls@scaledem.eu

ScaleDem is funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Research Executive Agency (REA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.