Nordic Council of Ministers invests DKK 30 million to strengthen civil society organisations

17.02.26 | News
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Are you involved in a non-profit civil society organisation and have an idea that involves partners from other Nordic countries? If so, now’s the time to submit an application to the Demos funding programme. The purpose of Demos is to strengthen the voice of Nordic civil society and help give organisations opportunities to influence society.

Research projects, travel grants, a film festival, and a Pride conference are just a few examples of initiatives that have received funding from the Demos programme in previous years. The purpose of the programme is to promote the opportunities of Nordic civil society stakeholders to work together, exert their influence, and strengthen their collective voice. This year sees a record amount of funding available for worthy projects – which perhaps says something about the times we’re living in.

This initiative, which comes directly from Ministers for Nordic Co-operation, shows that there is broad agreement across the Nordic Region that a strong civil society is a prerequisite for a well-functioning democracy. Ensuring that our democracies remain strong has rarely been more important than it is right now.

Karen Ellemann, Secretary General of the Nordic Council of Ministers.

All areas of society

Demos funds projects and networks that enable stakeholders in civil society to meet, forge contacts, and work together. Funding can be granted for most forms of collaborative project in all areas of society. This can include projects, workshops, conferences, meetings, products, or staff exchanges. What matters is that partners from at least three Nordic countries are involved in the project and that the application is submitted by a non-profit civil society organisation. Each project may be awarded up to EUR 50,000, to be used over a maximum period of two years.


The first application window of the year is open from 12 February to 12 March. A second application window will open from 11 August to 11 September 2026. 

Contact information