KBS & National Lottery - Fund for Democracy - call for projects 2026

Research

Funding organisation:

Fondation Roi Baudoin

What?

The Fund for Democracy is a collaboration between the King Baudouin Foundation and the National Lottery. It aims to strengthen confidence in democracy and in an open society. That is why the Fund supports projects that make democracy stronger, fairer and more resilient.

Therefore, it launched a second thematic call for projects. The theme for 2026 is: A balanced democracy. Democracy is under pressure today. New technology, artificial intelligence, misinformation and inequality are affecting how people access information, how decisions are made and the level of trust in democracy. That is why the Fund is looking for projects that help to restore balance to democracy. It does so through two key areas of focus:

• Pillar 1 – Innovative technologies for digital rights and democracy: focuses on how new technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, can help democracy. But it also examines the risks to power, inclusion and trust.
• Pillar 2 – Balance between chance and merit: is about chance in life. She explores how unequal opportunities affect the sense of fairness and solidarity in a democracy.

A total budget estimated at € 725.000 has been allocated to this call, in order to support different projects (target amount per project: between € 10.000 - € 40.000 max). The funding is awarded for one year. If, following an evaluation, a project demonstrates clear results and a measurable social impact, it may, in exceptional circumstances, apply for additional funding in 2027.
  

Who?

Pillar 1 is open to non-commercial organisations, such as research institutions, civil society organisations and other actors working in the fields of digital rights, technology and democratic innovation. They must clearly demonstrate that they prioritise people and their social responsibility.

Pillar 2 is open to social and cultural organisations, educational and research institutions, non-commercial initiatives and creative groups working in the fields of social justice, democratic renewal and inclusive participation. Projects that collaborate with schools, universities or research institutions, or that actively involve young people, are particularly encouraged.
  

Application?

Deadline submission: 08/10/2026
  

More information?

You can find more information about this call on the website.

Please contact research@uhasselt.be if you want to apply.

Deadline

08.10.2026

Contact Hasselt University?

E-mail brecht.vanhoof@uhasselt.be

Tel. +3211268744