The International Center for Not-for-Profit Law (ICNL) has launched a call for proposals inviting civil society organizations (CSOs) based in Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs) to submit project ideas that defend and expand civic space. Grants of up to USD 20,000 are available, with applications due by 28 February 2026. ICNL highlights the crucial role local activists, CSOs, community leaders, and human rights defenders play in advancing accountability, development, and good governance in these contexts, and the need for an enabling environment where CSOs can freely operate, mobilize communities, express views, access resources, and participate in decision-making. 
Proposals should focus on activities that defend and expand civic space, such as advocating for legal and policy reforms that remove restrictions on freedoms of association, peaceful assembly, expression, and public participation; strengthening civil society resilience through capacity-building, training, and resource development; and engaging in multilateral mechanisms and processes to promote open civic environments. Projects may target a single eligible country or span multiple eligible countries and should be designed to be completed by 1 October 2026. Eligible applicants include formal and informal CSOs with a clear commitment to civic freedoms and the capacity to manage funds and deliver results. 
To apply, organizations must submit a proposal of no more than five pages outlining the context, objectives, detailed activities, timeline, partners, target audiences and expected outputs, along with a line-item budget (not exceeding USD 20,000) and CVs of key project personnel. Documents may be submitted in English, French, Spanish, or Portuguese by email to ICNL (global@icnl.org), with the subject line specified in the guidelines. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until the deadline, and successful proposals will be evaluated on eligibility, feasibility of activities, likelihood of impact, clarity, and organizational capacity to steward grant funds responsibly.