SPACE Initiative
On going
Jan 2026 – Dec 2028
- Donor: Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida)
- Topic: Inclusion
- Coordinator: European Partnership for Democracy
- Approach: SPACE
Partners
- n/a
The SPACE Initiative (Strategic Partnership Approach to a Conducive Environment) aims to foster a supportive environment for civil society organisations (CSOs) by enhancing civic space in democratising countries, promoting collaboration between CSOs and public/private actors, and developing sustainable funding models to bolster CSO resilience.
Key outcomes:
- Civic Space & Civil Society Environment: An enabling environment where civil society can operate freely, with protected rights to associate, express, and organize.
- CSO Cooperation with Public and Private Actors: Structured and sustained partnerships between CSOs, government institutions, and private sector stakeholders, moving beyond ad hoc engagement to systematic collaboration.
- Funding Models & Civil Society Resilience: Diversified and innovative funding mechanisms that strengthen the financial independence and long-term sustainability of civil society organizations.
Key Activities:
- Direct financial and technical support to locally driven initiatives that advance civic space, cooperation, and organisational resilience.
- Tailored support that connects democracy support expertise with local partners for mentorship, technical guidance, and capacity strengthening.
- Collection and dissemination of lessons learned, tools, and best practices to inform and inspire the broader civil society ecosystem.
Funded by:

Cover photo: © Marcos on Adobe Stock.
Open positions
Working for democracy provides an opportunity to contribute towards shaping fair, just, and equitable societies around the world. Our network of organisations, located at the heart of Europe, is dedicated to making a positive impact on individuals’ and communities’ freedoms and human rights through our programmes, research, and advocacy activities.