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Civil society organisations in Nigeria and other eligible countries are invited to apply for the Digital Action Lab (DAL) Cohort 3, a structured programme designed to support innovative digital solutions that promote civic space, inclusive democracy, and citizen engagement.
This initiative targets organisations with strong ideas and a clear commitment to using digital tools for social impact, especially in environments where civic space is restricted or under pressure.
About the Digital Action Lab
The Digital Action Lab is an initiative that empowers civil society actors to strengthen their digital capacity, improve resilience, and drive meaningful democratic participation.
The programme focuses on helping organisations move from ideas to real-world impact by combining learning, collaboration, and financial support.
What the Programme Offers
Digital Skills and Strategic Support
Participating organisations will receive hands-on support to build their digital capacity and develop practical strategies for advocacy, civic participation, and accountability.
Peer Learning and Collaboration
The programme creates opportunities for organisations to learn from one another, exchange ideas, and collaborate across regions and sectors.
Innovation and Experimentation
Participants are encouraged to test new digital approaches and refine their strategies based on real-time learning and feedback.
Financial Support
Each selected organisation will receive grant funding ranging from USD 10,000 to USD 20,000 to implement their digital action projects.
Documentation and Knowledge Sharing
Organisations will be supported to document their work through case studies, infographics, and videos. These will be shared across global networks to amplify impact and learning.
How the Programme Works
The Digital Action Lab runs for nine months and follows a structured cohort model:
1. Call for Applications
An open call is announced for eligible civil society organisations.
2. Selection
Up to ten organisations are selected through a competitive and transparent process.
3. Co-Design and Learning
Selected participants work with experts and peers to refine their project ideas and align them with real-world needs.
4. Funding
Grants between USD 10,000 and USD 20,000 are disbursed to support project implementation.
5. Implementation and Support
Organisations implement their projects with continuous technical guidance and coaching.
6. Peer Learning and Exchange
Participants engage in structured sessions to share experiences, challenges, and solutions.
7. Impact and Knowledge Sharing
Outcomes and lessons are documented and shared across global civic networks to strengthen democratic action.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Civil society organisations, networks, movements, or coalitions (formal or informal)
- Individual activists affiliated with a civil society organisation
- Priority is given to underrepresented and marginalised groups, including women, youth, LGBTQI+, Indigenous communities, and grassroots actors
- Must be based in OECD DAC ODA-eligible countries (Nigeria qualifies)
- Preference for organisations operating in restricted or repressed civic environments
- Local offices of Global North organisations are not eligible
- Must be actively working on democracy or civic space issues
- Some experience using digital tools for advocacy or service delivery
- Ability to manage grant funding and commit to the full nine-month programme
- Must be able to work and submit deliverables in English
Application Link
Interested organisations can apply directly through the official application form below.
Final Note
This is a strong opportunity for Nigerian civil society organisations and youth-led groups to access funding, technical support, and global exposure while driving digital innovation for democratic impact. Early application is strongly advised, as selection is competitive and limited to a small cohort.
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