Internet Society Foundation

Over the years, the Internet Society has supported inspirational work by people who believe in the power of the Internet.

The launch of the Internet Society Foundation during the first quarter of 2019 was a major milestone for our organization, reflecting the next step in our grants-giving programmes and opening new opportunities for initiatives closely aligned with our mission. As a central source for all of our grants programs, it gives us maximum flexibility to expand opportunities for our community and to extend our reach into new areas where we can make a positive impact.

The Foundation’s grant programmes, as outlined in the 2020 Action Plan, include:

Beyond the Net Funding Programme

Helping Internet Society Chapters around the world implement local and regional projects that advance the vision of the Internet is for everyone.

Small Grant Programme

Large Grant Programme

Strengthening Communities, Improving Lives and Livelihoods (SCILLS)

Expanding economic growth, improving health outcomes and increasing educational opportunities by supporting individuals and communities to more knowledgeably and skillfully use the Internet.

About the programme

Emergency Response Programme

Supporting organizations working on projects that utilize the Internet to improve lives during or in response to an emergency situation. In 2020, the Foundation’s focus is on projects that are responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, both during the immediate period of the crisis and in the aftermath.

About the programme

Building Disaster Resilient Communities

Accelerating efforts to help communities enhance preparedness and build resilience for when they are faced with adverse events such as national disasters.

Coming soon

Research

Funding global research collaborations that advance, evaluate or promote understanding of the Internet and its utility for all.

About the programme

IETF LLC

The Foundation will also provide $5 million to the newly-established IETF Administration LLC as part of the Internet Society’s ongoing commitment to a strong IETF.

About the IETF

Internet Society Foundation Q&A

Why did the Internet Society create a Foundation?

The Internet Society Foundation was established to provide grants for projects that support work aligned with the Internet Society mission. It will allow us to expand our reach, increase our real-world impact and demonstrate the positive difference that the Internet can make to people everywhere.

As a registered 501(c) 3 tax-exempt charitable organization in the U.S., the Foundation has maximum flexibility in funding projects in our own community as well as other work around the world.

When was the Foundation officially launched?

The Foundation was introduced in February 2019 with a new website and call for applications from Internet Society Chapters and Special Interest Groups (SIGs) for the Beyond the Net Small Grants Programme. Additional grant programmes have since been announced and more information is available on the Foundation website.

What areas will the Foundation support?

The Foundation supports inspirational work being done by people who believe in the Internet as a force for good and in its power to change the lives of people around the world. Its five main areas of grant support are listed above.

What is the difference between the areas supported by the Foundation and the Beyond the Net programme?

One of the advantages of establishing a Foundation is that it provides a central source for grant-giving activities. All of the Beyond the Net grants are now housed within the Foundation. Beyond the Net makes up just one area of the Foundation’s grant portfolio.

What are the eligibility criteria and processes for those wishing to apply for Foundation grants?

Information on the Beyond the Net Funding Programme as well as the other programmes is available on the website.

Who can apply for these grants?

The Beyond the Net Funding Programme is exclusively for Internet Society Chapters and Special Interest Groups. All other Foundation grants are open to individuals and organizations that meet the Foundation’s established programme criteria.

Who has oversight for the Foundation and its grants?

The Foundation is governed by the Board of Trustees. See the current list of Board members.

Who will lead the Foundation and what is the organizational structure?

The Executive Director Sarah Armstrong leads the development of the Foundation’s grant programs and organizational structure, supported by the Foundation team.

How can I learn more about the Foundation?

Visit the Foundation website, https://www.isocfoundation.org/ or email: foundation@isocfoundation.org

Image credits:
– Leading image: © Roopa Gogineni / Panos Pictures
– Beyond the Net Programme image: © Internet Society / Nyani Quarmyne / Panos Pictures
– SCILLS programme image: ⓒ Paula Bronstein/Getty Images/Images of Empowerment
– Emergency Response programme image: ⓒ ISOC Brazil Chapter