Sustainable Peering Infrastructure Grant Program
Funds projects to build and strengthen community-led Internet Exchange Points and peering ecosystems in underserved regions, aiming to improve local Internet performance and resilience.
Funder: Internet Society Foundation
Due Dates (Anticipated): March 2027 (application window opens, projected) | April 2027 (full application deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: Up to $50,000 (IXP Support) or up to $25,000 (Peering Ecosystem Support); typically for 12–18 month projects.
Summary: Supports building and strengthening community-led Internet Exchange Points and peering ecosystems in underserved regions, focusing on LDCs and SIDS.
Key Information: Preference for projects in Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS); legal registration and an official bank account required.
Description
This program funds projects that aim to develop sustainable, community-led Internet Exchange Points (IXPs) and enhance existing IXPs in regions lacking sufficient peering infrastructure. The goal is to improve local Internet performance, affordability, and reliability by fostering robust interconnection ecosystems. The program is especially focused on supporting initiatives in United Nations-recognized Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS), in alignment with the Internet Society Foundation’s 2030 Strategy. Funding is available for both the establishment and enhancement of IXPs, as well as for broader peering ecosystem support, including capacity building, training, and community engagement.
