The Internet Freedom Fund, administered by the Open Technology Fund (OTF), supports global initiatives that advance internet freedom through technology development, research, digital security enhancement, and convenings. As OTF's primary funding opportunity, the fund seeks innovative proposals that promote secure, unrestricted access to the internet, particularly in environments subject to censorship or surveillance. Projects may focus on areas such as circumvention technologies, privacy tools, or collaborative community-building events that enhance the digital rights ecosystem.
The fund accepts applications on a rolling basis and follows a two-stage application process. Interested individuals or organizations must first submit a Concept Note outlining their project idea through OTF’s online portal. Highly competitive applicants will then be invited to submit a full Proposal. Applications are evaluated by the Internet Freedom Fund Advisory Council, a group of subject-matter experts who assess the project’s relevance, feasibility, cost efficiency, and sustainability.
Funding awards range from $10,000 to $900,000 for project periods of up to 24 months, with most successful applicants requesting between $50,000 and $200,000 for six- to twelve-month efforts. Funding is issued via performance-based contracts and disbursed in U.S. dollars upon completion of project milestones as outlined in the contract. Each funded project is supported by an OTF program manager responsible for monitoring and evaluation.
Applicants are encouraged to propose efforts that reflect a diverse and inclusive approach, especially those who are applying for the first time, are underrepresented in the field, or operate in areas of the world where digital freedom is underfunded. Priority project categories include technology development, applied research, digital security ecosystem improvement, and convenings designed to foster trust, knowledge-sharing, and strategic collaboration among internet freedom communities.
The fund is open to both individuals and organizations, regardless of nationality or business structure. However, applicants located in countries subject to U.S. trade restrictions or export sanctions are ineligible. OTF does not support initiatives focused on expanding internet connectivity, general civic development technologies, or legal and policy advocacy unless narrowly tied to technical research.
