[Internet Society Foundation](https://www.internetsociety.org/foundation)

August 2026 (Full application deadline, projected)

Up to USD $300,000 per project; project duration up to 18 months

Funds teams to develop innovative prototypes and pilots that expand Internet connectivity and access in underserved communities.

This is a forecasted opportunity; application window is projected and not currently open.

--- ## Description The BOLT Grant Program, managed by the Internet Society Foundation, supports the development of innovative methods, technologies, and infrastructure to enhance Internet connectivity and access. The program funds interdisciplinary teams—including technologists, creatives, researchers, and social/cultural workers—who design and implement prototypes or pilots that address connectivity gaps in communities where current technologies are unavailable or insufficient. Projects are expected to be cost-reducing, environmentally sustainable, trust-enhancing, and tailored to the needs of local users and communities. The ultimate goal is to advance global Internet development and foster responsible, community-relevant innovation. --- ## Due Dates - August 2026: Full application deadline (anticipated/projected) *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Maximum award: Up to USD $300,000 per project - Project duration: Up to 18 months --- ## Eligibility - Applicants must be teams housed within non-profit organizations. - Teams may include technologists, researchers, creatives, and social/cultural workers. - Projects must focus on developing prototypes or pilots to improve Internet access and connectivity in underserved or unconnected communities. - Organizations must meet the [Internet Society Foundation’s grantee eligibility requirements](https://www.isocfoundation.org/resources/grantee-eligibility/). --- ## Application Process - The application window is not currently open; the next anticipated cycle is projected for August 2026. - Interested applicants should monitor the [BOLT Grant Program page](https://www.isocfoundation.org/grant-programme/bolt-grant-program/) for updates and specific application instructions. - When open, applications are submitted online and require a description of the proposed project, objectives, expected impact, team composition, and alignment with program goals. - Webinars and informational sessions are typically offered during the application period. --- ## Additional Information - The BOLT Grant Program has previously funded projects such as community WiFi networks, digital classroom solutions, and innovative wireless technology pilots in regions including Malawi, Argentina, the United States, Brazil, and Sierra Leone. - The program emphasizes projects that are imaginative, experimental, and have measurable community impact. - The Internet Society Foundation supports a vision of an open, globally-connected, secure, and trustworthy Internet for everyone. --- ## External Links - [BOLT Grant Program Overview](https://www.isocfoundation.org/grant-programme/bolt-grant-program/) - [Internet Society Foundation Home](https://www.internetsociety.org/foundation) - [Grantee Eligibility Requirements](https://www.isocfoundation.org/resources/grantee-eligibility/) - [Recent BOLT Program Announcement](https://www.isocfoundation.org/2024/07/announcing-the-2024-bolt-grant-program-empowering-innovation-for-global-internet-access/) --- ## Contact Information | Type | Details | |---------------|----------------------------------------------| | Email | [foundation@isocfoundation.org](mailto:foundation@isocfoundation.org) | | Address | 11710 Plaza America Drive, Suite 400, Reston, VA 20190, USA | ---

BOLT Grant Program

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