Beyond the Net Grant Program
Forecasted
Beyond the Net Grant Program supports Internet Society chapters’ local connectivity, training, and online safety projects to expand meaningful access to an open, trusted, globally connected Internet.
Funder: Internet Society Foundation
Due Dates: Closed (Application status) | At least 8 weeks before project start (Submission lead time)
Funding Amounts: Maximum USD $55,000 across two simultaneous grants; projects up to 24 months
Summary: Supports Internet Society chapters’ local projects expanding meaningful access to an open, trusted, globally connected Internet.
Key Information: Only Internet Society chapters are eligible; grants exceeding USD $20,000 require an external implementation partner.
Description
The Internet Society Foundation’s Beyond the Net program supports Internet Society chapters implementing innovative projects with local impact. It seeks to provide meaningful Internet access, strengthen chapters’ presence in their communities, advance the Internet Society and Foundation’s mission through complementary local activities, and develop or strengthen local partnerships.
Supported work spans four areas: community-centered connectivity, affordable and reliable access, online trust and safety, and an open and trustworthy Internet. Projects may provide sustainable connectivity and productive-use training for unconnected or under-connected populations, improve local Internet interconnection infrastructure such as Internet exchange points, or help recently connected people protect themselves online. The program also supports educating policymakers, courts, decision makers, and businesses about threats to Internet openness, fundamental rights, user well-being, and trust in digital technologies.
