Deadline: 22-May-2026
The Internet Society Foundation Research Grant Program supports innovative research on the Internet’s societal, environmental, and technological impact. Grants range from US$200,000 to US$500,000 for individuals and organizations worldwide. The programme focuses on inclusive access, sustainability, meaningful connectivity, and building a trustworthy Internet.
The Internet Society Foundation Research Grant Program, offered by the Internet Society Foundation, funds high-impact research projects that improve understanding of the Internet and its role in society.
The programme prioritizes applied research, open knowledge sharing, and real-world impact, supporting solutions that influence policy, technology, and global digital development.
Programme Overview
Key Details:
- Funding Amount:
- Up to US$200,000 (individual researchers)
- Up to US$500,000 (organizations)
- Scope: Global
- Project Type: Applied research
- Focus: Internet impact, governance, and innovation
Core Objective:
To generate practical, open, and actionable research that improves how the Internet is accessed, governed, and experienced globally.
Key Thematic Areas
The programme is structured around four strategic research pillars.
1. Inclusive Internet
- Addresses barriers such as income, gender, geography, and digital literacy
- Focuses on expanding equitable Internet access and participation
2. Greening the Internet
- Explores environmental impact of Internet infrastructure
- Promotes sustainability and climate resilience
3. Measuring Meaningful Connectivity
- Goes beyond access to assess quality and usefulness of connectivity
- Evaluates how connectivity supports economic and social participation
4. A Trustworthy Internet
- Examines security, reliability, and accountability
- Addresses emerging digital risks and user trust issues
Funding Structure and Support
Grant Amounts:
- US$200,000 for independent researchers
- US$500,000 for organizations
What the Grant Supports:
- Applied and interdisciplinary research
- Policy-relevant studies
- Technology and innovation insights
- Open-access knowledge dissemination
Programme Impact:
- Over 70+ projects funded
- More than US$22 million awarded in the past five years
Who Is Eligible?
Eligible Applicants
- Individual researchers
- Academic institutions
- Non-profit organizations
- Research groups and collaborations
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Demonstrate relevant research experience or academic qualifications
- Align proposals with thematic priorities
- Ensure open access to research findings
- Meet ethical standards for research involving humans or animals
Why This Grant Matters
This programme addresses critical challenges in the global digital ecosystem.
Key Benefits:
- Supports evidence-based Internet policy and governance
- Advances digital inclusion and equity
- Promotes sustainable Internet infrastructure
- Strengthens global collaboration and innovation
- Enhances trust, security, and user experience online
How to Apply
Step-by-Step Application Process:
Step 1: Identify Research Focus
- Choose one or more thematic areas
- Define a clear problem statement
Step 2: Develop Research Proposal
- Outline objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes
- Ensure practical and policy relevance
Step 3: Prepare Supporting Documents
- Research plan and timeline
- Budget and justification
- Applicant CV and experience
- Ethical compliance documentation (if applicable)
Step 4: Submit Application
- Apply through the Internet Society Foundation platform
Step 5: Evaluation Process
Applications are reviewed based on:
- Innovation and originality
- Relevance to thematic priorities
- Feasibility and methodology
- Potential global impact
Key Concepts Explained
Inclusive Internet
An Internet that is accessible and equitable for all, regardless of socio-economic or geographic barriers.
Meaningful Connectivity
Connectivity that enables effective participation in education, work, and society, not just basic access.
Trustworthy Internet
A digital ecosystem that ensures security, privacy, transparency, and accountability.
Greening the Internet
Efforts to reduce the environmental footprint of digital infrastructure.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting generic or unfocused proposals
- Ignoring alignment with thematic priorities
- Lack of practical or policy relevance
- Weak methodology or unclear outcomes
- عدم addressing ethical considerations
Tips for a Successful Application
- Focus on real-world impact and usability
- Align strongly with one or more core themes
- Highlight interdisciplinary collaboration
- Ensure clarity, feasibility, and innovation
- Plan for open-access dissemination of results
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the purpose of this grant?
To support research that improves understanding of the Internet and its societal impact.
2. Who funds the programme?
The Internet Society Foundation.
3. How much funding is available?
Between US$200,000 and US$500,000 depending on the applicant type.
4. Who can apply?
Researchers and organizations worldwide with relevant expertise.
5. What topics are supported?
Inclusive Internet, sustainability, meaningful connectivity, and Internet trust.
6. Is collaboration encouraged?
Yes, especially interdisciplinary and global collaborations.
7. Are research results required to be public?
Yes, findings must be openly accessible.
Conclusion
The Internet Society Foundation Research Grant Program is a major opportunity for researchers and organizations to shape the future of the Internet.
By funding impactful, open, and forward-thinking research, the Internet Society Foundation is helping build a more inclusive, sustainable, secure, and trustworthy digital world.
For more information, visit Internet Society Foundation.