Donate: 2026 NED Democracy Awards

Join Our Cause. We invite you to be part of the Democracy Awards—a celebration of courage and conviction. The Awards shine a light on extraordinary people at the frontlines of freedom. Your generosity ensures that NED can continue serving as a lifeline for them and for countless others whose work defends human dignity and democratic values.

Why Your Support Matters. Each year, NED channels Congressional appropriations to grassroots organizations working for democracy in nearly 100 countries. Yet as authoritarian challenges mount, so too does the urgent demand for support. Private contributions enable NED to act quickly, reliably, and flexibly—to stand by activists at moments of crisis, to address emerging threats, and to ensure predictability in our steadfast support. By giving, you become part of this effort, ensuring that those risking everything for freedom are not alone.

Ways to Give. You can demonstrate your commitment to democracy by making an individual gift in support of the 2026 Democracy Awards—where all contributions directly advance NED’s mission. All supporters will be recognized at the ceremony.

Host Committee

Presenting Chair – $250,000
Co-Chair – $100,000
Democracy Champion – $50,000

Sponsor

Democracy Leader – $25,000
Democracy Defender – $10,000
Democracy Advocate – $5,000
Democracy Supporter – $1,000
Friends of NED / Individual Gifts – contributions of any size

Designated Gifts. In addition to unrestricted support, donors may direct contributions to specific initiatives, such as the Gershman Fund for Democracy Advocates at Risk. This fund provides rapid, lifesaving support to embattled activists—helping them recover, regroup, and return to the struggle for freedom. It also honors the legacy of NED’s founding president, Carl Gershman.