Application Deadline: 22 May 2026 (21:00 UTC)
Big research ideas often struggle to find the funding they deserve, but the Internet Society Foundation Research Grant 2026 is designed to change that. With funding of up to $500,000, this global program supports researchers working on real-world Internet challenges, from digital inclusion to online trust and sustainability. If your work can shape how the Internet evolves, this is one of the most impactful grants currently open.
Quick Facts
| Host Organization: | Internet Society Foundation |
| Funding Amount: | Up to $200,000 (individuals) / $500,000 (institutions) |
| Eligible Applicants: | Global (Researchers & Public Institutions) |
| Focus Areas: | Internet research, policy, technology, sustainability |
| Application Period: | 7 April – 22 May 2026 |
| Languages: | English, French, Spanish |
About the Grant
The Internet Society Foundation’s Research Grant Program supports projects that go beyond theory. This is applied, open research, work that addresses real-world challenges and produces insights that can influence policy, industry decisions, and technology development.
Over the years, the program has supported dozens of projects worldwide, helping researchers contribute to conversations on Internet governance, security, access, and innovation. What makes this grant stand out is its focus on practical impact. Selected projects are expected to generate findings that are openly shared and useful beyond academia.
The broader goal is simple but ambitious: to help build an Internet that is inclusive, secure, reliable, and accessible for everyone.
Focus Areas
Applicants must align their proposals with at least one of the program’s key themes:
1. Inclusive Internet
Research that addresses barriers such as cost, geography, gender inequality, and digital literacy factors that prevent billions from meaningful Internet access.
2. Greening the Internet
Projects exploring the environmental impact of Internet infrastructure, energy use, and sustainable digital practices.
3. Measuring Meaningful Connectivity
Work that goes beyond “being online” to examine whether Internet access truly enables participation in economic, social, and civic life.
4. A Trustworthy Internet
Research focused on security, reliability, accountability, and the risks affecting trust in online systems.
Eligibility Criteria
For Individual Researchers
- Must hold a postgraduate degree (Master’s or PhD)
- Should have relevant research experience (publications, patents, etc.)
For Institutions
- Must be a public or non-profit research institution (e.g., 501(c)(3) or equivalent)
- Private institutions are not eligible
Applicants from underrepresented groups and the Global Majority are strongly encouraged to apply.
Funding Details
The program offers two funding levels:
- Up to $200,000 → Independent researchers
- Up to $500,000 → Organizations and research institutions
Funding supports collaborative, interdisciplinary projects that can deliver meaningful, real-world outcomes.
Selection Criteria
Applications are evaluated based on:
- Alignment with one of the focus areas
- Originality and innovation
- Practical relevance and policy impact
- Collaboration and diversity
- Interdisciplinary approach
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Application Process
- Choose a research topic aligned with the program themes
- Prepare a strong, applied research proposal
- Register on the Foundation’s grant platform (Fluxx)
- Complete and submit your application before the deadline
- Await review (can take up to 14 weeks)
Important: Registration must be completed at least 24 hours before the deadline.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the official Internet Society Foundation grant system.
Why this Grant stands out
Not all research funding leads to real-world change. This one is different.
- It prioritizes actionable knowledge, not just theory
- It funds global collaboration, especially from underserved regions
- It supports work that directly influences policy and innovation
For researchers working at the intersection of technology and society, this is more than funding; it’s a chance to shape the future of the Internet.
For more details, visit the Internet Society Foundation.
