Deadline: 01-Jun-2026
The NGI Zero Commons Fund provides €5,000 to €50,000 to support open-source, community-driven technologies that strengthen the public, accessible, and secure nature of the internet.
Overview
The Next Generation Internet (NGI) Zero Commons Fund supports the development of open, community-driven technologies that help reclaim the internet as a public good.
The programme promotes innovation through open-source software, open hardware, open data, and open science.
Programme Objectives
The fund aims to:
- Strengthen the public and open nature of the internet
- Support commons-based technological innovation
- Encourage collaboration and community-driven development
- Improve security, usability, and accessibility of digital tools
- Accelerate societal progress through open technologies
Key Focus Areas
The programme supports a wide range of activities, including:
Research and Development
- Scientific research
- Design and development of open-source software
- Open hardware innovation
Technical Improvement
- Software engineering and application development
- Security audits, testing, and validation
- Standardisation and interoperability efforts
User and Community Focus
- Documentation and educational materials
- User experience and usability improvements
- Community engagement and participation
Deployment and Infrastructure
- Packaging and deployment support
- Infrastructure and maintenance costs
- Project management and development practices
Funding Details
- Minimum funding: €5,000
- Maximum funding: €50,000
- Additional scaling: Possible for high-impact projects
The flexible funding model allows projects to grow over time if they demonstrate strong results.
Full-Stack Approach
A key feature of this programme is its full-stack support, covering:
- Hardware and infrastructure
- Core internet technologies
- Applications and end-user tools
This ensures comprehensive development across all layers of the internet ecosystem.
Eligibility and Project Scope
The programme is open to:
- Individuals
- Developers
- Researchers
- Organizations and collectives
Projects must:
- Be aligned with open internet principles
- Use open-source or open technologies
- Demonstrate cost-effectiveness
- Contribute to public digital infrastructure
Why This Programme Matters
This initiative is important because it:
- Promotes digital sovereignty and openness
- Reduces dependence on closed, proprietary systems
- Encourages transparent and ethical technology development
- Supports innovation accessible to all
- Builds sustainable digital commons
How to Apply
Steps
- Identify a Project Idea
Focus on open-source or commons-based innovation - Align with NGI Goals
Ensure your proposal supports open internet ecosystems - Develop Proposal
Include:
- Technical approach
- Expected impact
- Budget and timeline
- Submit Application
Through the official NGI application platform
Key Tips for Applicants
- Prioritize openness and community value
- Clearly define technical outcomes
- Focus on usability and real-world impact
- Demonstrate scalability potential
- Keep the budget efficient and justified
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Proposing closed or proprietary solutions
- Weak community or user focus
- Lack of technical clarity
- Overly complex or unrealistic budgets
- Ignoring documentation and usability aspects
FAQs
1. What is the funding range?
€5,000 to €50,000, with potential for further scaling.
2. Who can apply?
Individuals, developers, researchers, and organizations worldwide.
3. What types of projects are supported?
Open-source software, open hardware, research, and internet infrastructure projects.
4. Can early-stage ideas apply?
Yes, as long as they are practical and aligned with programme goals.
5. Is collaboration encouraged?
Yes, community-driven and collaborative projects are highly valued.
6. Does the programme support infrastructure costs?
Yes, if they are essential and justified.
7. What is the main goal?
To strengthen the internet as a public, open, and accessible resource.
Conclusion
The NGI Zero Commons Fund is a significant opportunity for innovators working on open technologies.
By supporting projects across the full technology stack, it helps build a more transparent, secure, and community-driven internet for the future.
For more information, visit NLnet Foundation.
