[MacArthur Foundation](https://www.macfound.org)

June 2026 (Full application deadline, projected)

Typical awards range from $30,000 to $2,000,000 over 6 months to 3 years; both project and general operating support are provided.

Supports oversight, research, and innovation to ensure AI governance centers on public interest, safety, and equity.

Program does not accept unsolicited proposals; contact program staff with ideas.

--- ## Description This initiative from the MacArthur Foundation is dedicated to strengthening oversight and fostering innovation in the governance of artificial intelligence (AI). The program funds research, policy development, and practical solutions that advance AI evaluation, auditing, and accountability mechanisms, aiming to build public trust, ensure safety and security, and protect human rights. The focus is on centering public interest—especially for communities most vulnerable to AI-related harms—and supporting networks and organizations that drive responsible AI adoption in high-stakes sectors such as healthcare, education, and finance. Grantmaking also explores emerging issues at the intersection of technology and society, contributing to the broader goal of ensuring that the benefits of AI are equitably shared and its risks mitigated. --- ## Due Dates - June 2026: Full application deadline (anticipated/projected) *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Typical awards range from $30,000 (short-term, focused projects) to $2,000,000 (multi-year, large-scale initiatives). - Recent grants have supported both project-specific and general operating expenses. - Grant durations usually span 6 months to 3 years. - The program has awarded over $70 million to 114+ organizations since 2017. --- ## Eligibility - **Organizations:** Nonprofits, universities, research institutions, advocacy groups, and networks working on AI governance, evaluation, auditing, and accountability. - **Individuals:** Not typically eligible unless applying through an eligible organization. - **Geographic scope:** Global, with grantees in the US and internationally. - **Unsolicited proposals:** Not currently accepted; prospective applicants are encouraged to contact program staff with new ideas or perspectives before preparing a proposal. --- ## Application Process - The program does not accept unsolicited proposals at this time. - Interested organizations or researchers should reach out to the program team to discuss new ideas or perspectives ([tpiprogram@macfound.org](mailto:tpiprogram@macfound.org)). - If invited, applicants may be guided to submit a formal proposal via the [MacArthur Foundation Grants Portal](https://macfound.fluxx.io/user_sessions/new). - Required materials and specific instructions will be provided upon invitation. --- ## Additional Information - The program prioritizes general operating support for organizations contributing to multiple grantmaking approaches. - Focus areas include: developing AI evaluation/audit methods, advancing policy/regulatory frameworks, and supporting networks for responsible AI in high-impact sectors. - Collaboration with other MacArthur programs and philanthropic partners is common. - Evaluation and learning are integral, with customized evaluation designs for each grant. --- ## External Links - [Program Overview](https://www.macfound.org/programs/field-support/technology-public-interest/) - [Program Strategy](https://www.macfound.org/programs/field-support/technology-public-interest/strategy) - [Recent Grants](https://www.macfound.org/grants/?program=102184) - [Grantseekers Information](https://www.macfound.org/grants/info-for-grantseekers) - [MacArthur Foundation Grants Portal](https://macfound.fluxx.io/user_sessions/new) --- ## Contact Information | Purpose | Contact | |-------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------| | Program inquiries / ideas | [tpiprogram@macfound.org](mailto:tpiprogram@macfound.org) | | General inquiries | [4answers@macfound.org](mailto:4answers@macfound.org) | | Phone | +1 312-726-8000 | | Online contact form | [Contact Us](https://www.macfound.org/about/contact-us) | ---

Technology in the Public Interest

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