Apply for funding to support open dialogue, civic engagement and free speech

Have an idea for a project that supports open dialogue, civic engagement or free speech? The UC National Center for Free Speech and Civic Engagement is now accepting applications for the 2026-27 Valuing Open and Inclusive Conversation and Engagement Initiative, aka VOICE.

VOICE provides funding for UC students, staff and faculty who want to conduct research or create programs and activities that support open dialogue, civic engagement and democratic learning. Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. (PT) on Tuesday, June 9.

What VOICE supports

VOICE projects can take many forms, including forums, workshops, symposia, research projects or other activities that help people engage across differences, explore democratic processes or build civic understanding.

Selected projects may receive awards of up to $5,000. Funding may be used for project-related costs like supplies, advertising, room rentals, refreshments, software, speaker stipends or research assistance.

Who can apply

All current UC students, staff and faculty are eligible to apply as individuals or as part of a group, team, office or department. Project contributors must be UC students, faculty or staff members for the full 2026-27 academic year.

Learn more

Want to learn more before applying? Register for the VOICE Initiative information session on Wednesday, May 20, from 12 to 1 p.m. (PT). During the session, Center staff will share an overview of the initiative, review the application process and answer questions.

You can also watch an informational video, below.

For questions, contact freespeechcenter@uci.edu.