Deadline: 01-Jun-2026
NGI TALER provides €5,000–€50,000 grants to support open-source development of a privacy-preserving digital payment system, aiming to create secure, low-cost, and transparent online transactions.
Overview
The NGI TALER programme supports the development of a secure, privacy-preserving electronic payment system.
Funded by the European Commission and the Swiss State, the initiative builds on the GNU Taler framework to enable transparent and efficient digital transactions.
Programme Objectives
The programme aims to:
- Develop privacy-preserving digital payment systems
- Ensure transparency for merchants while protecting users
- Support low-cost and secure micro-payments
- Enable alternative online business models beyond ads and subscriptions
- Improve financial accessibility for underserved populations
Key Focus Areas
Research and Development
- Scientific and technical research
- Open-source software and hardware development
- Validation of new payment technologies
Security and Quality
- Formal security audits and testing
- Software engineering improvements
- Robust development practices
User and Ecosystem Development
- Usability and user experience improvements
- Documentation and educational materials
- Community engagement and participation
Deployment and Infrastructure
- Deployment and packaging support
- Infrastructure and system integration
- Project management activities
Funding Details
- Total funding pool: At least €676,000
- Grant size: €5,000 – €50,000 per project
- Programme duration: Until November 2026
Funding Conditions
- Projects must be cost-effective
- All outputs must be released as free and open source
Key Features of GNU Taler
- Privacy for users (transactions are not tracked)
- Transparency for merchants (for regulatory compliance)
- Supports micro-payments with low transaction costs
- Suitable for everyday digital transactions
- Reduces risks compared to volatile cryptocurrencies
Why This Programme Matters
This initiative is important because it:
- Addresses privacy concerns in digital payments
- Provides an alternative to traditional and crypto payment systems
- Promotes open, transparent financial infrastructure
- Supports inclusive access to digital finance
- Encourages innovation in online economic models
Eligibility and Participation
The programme is open to:
- Developers
- Researchers
- Organizations
- Innovators working on open financial technologies
Projects must:
- Align with NGI TALER objectives
- Contribute to open-source ecosystems
- Deliver practical and implementable solutions
How to Apply
Steps
- Identify a Project Idea
Focus on privacy-preserving payment solutions - Align with Programme Goals
Ensure contribution to open financial infrastructure - Prepare Proposal
Include:
- Technical approach
- Expected impact
- Budget and timeline
- Submit Application
Through the official NGI TALER funding platform
Key Tips for Applicants
- Focus on real-world usability and adoption
- Emphasize privacy and security features
- Demonstrate technical feasibility
- Ensure compliance with open-source requirements
- Highlight scalability and long-term impact
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Proposing closed or proprietary systems
- Weak focus on privacy or security
- Lack of practical implementation plan
- Ignoring user experience considerations
- Overcomplicating technical solutions
FAQs
1. What is the funding range?
€5,000 to €50,000 per project.
2. What is the total funding available?
At least €676,000.
3. Who funds the programme?
The European Commission and the Swiss State.
4. What is GNU Taler?
An open-source digital payment system focused on privacy and transparency.
5. Are projects required to be open source?
Yes, all outputs must be released under a free and open source license.
6. What is the programme duration?
Until November 2026.
7. Who can apply?
Developers, researchers, and organizations working on relevant technologies.
Conclusion
The NGI TALER programme represents a forward-looking approach to digital payments.
By combining privacy, transparency, and open-source principles, it aims to reshape how financial transactions are conducted online, making them more secure, inclusive, and accessible.
For more information, visit NLnet Foundation.