Python Software Foundation (PSF) Grants Program

The Python Software Foundation (PSF) Grants Program, operational since 2015, has awarded over $3 million in support of Python-related conferences, workshops, and local community initiatives worldwide. Aligned with its mission to promote, protect, and advance the Python programming language and support an inclusive and international community of Python programmers, the PSF administers this grants program through a structured process emphasizing transparency, impact, and equity. As of now, the program is temporarily paused due to the 2025 funding cap being met early, a move made to maintain the foundation's long-term sustainability. The program supports events such as in-person, virtual, or hybrid Python conferences, Django Girls and PyLadies workshops, educational workshops, and consolidated regional grant requests. All proposed initiatives must demonstrate alignment with the PSF’s mission, a community-centered impact, and responsible budget planning. Funding is restricted from being used for personal travel, hackathons, swag, unrelated initiatives, or events requiring equipment. Requests must be submitted at least eight weeks prior to the start date to ensure adequate review time by the PSF’s Grants Working Group and, if necessary, the Board. The application process is comprehensive and begins with submission through an online form requiring detailed budget documentation, a Code of Conduct, attendee estimates, curriculum outlines, and sponsor information. Submissions undergo pre-checks by PSF staff, followed by reviews by the Grants Working Group and potentially the PSF Board. Decisions are communicated via email, with approvals accompanied by invoicing instructions. Funded projects must complete a post-event report, and future eligibility depends on compliance with this requirement. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, registered community groups, and event organizers who comply with PSF standards such as having a Code of Conduct with an enforcement mechanism and being registered with umbrella organizations (e.g., PyLadies Global or Django Girls Foundation). The PSF also evaluates each proposal's geographic reach, community benefit, and financial transparency. Notably, PSF prioritizes proposals that support underserved communities, demonstrate a high return on community impact, and request reasonable financial contributions in proportion to overall event funding. Due to regulatory and operational constraints, funding cannot be sent to certain countries, and all grant expenditures must comply with U.S. nonprofit regulations. Additional funding from sponsors is encouraged, especially for repeat or larger events, though it is not a requirement. Inquiries about the grants process can be directed to grants@python.org or through monthly Discord office hours. While currently paused, the program typically funds up to two events per organizer or city per year, and recurring applications must demonstrate prior impact through reporting.

Submit 8+ weeks in advance; include CoC with reporting method; partial funding possible; impact reports required for repeat applicants.