Internet Foundation opens applications for digital projects in six countries
In order to ensure the vision of an Internet for Everyone, the Internet Society Foundation has opened applications for digital projects in six countries.
Officially launched in 2019, the Internet Society Foundation fund initiatives that strengthen the Internet so that it can effectively serve all people.
One of the Foundation’s focus areas is digital inclusion. To that end, the Internet Society Foundation launched the Strengthening Communities, Improving Lives and Livelihoods (SCILLS) grant program in 2020.
SCILLS aims to contribute to economic inclusion and increase educational opportunities by supporting individuals and communities to more knowledgeably and skillfully use the Internet. The long-term aim of the program is to play a key role in supporting digital transformation.
The initial rounds of SCILLS grant funding were made to organizations in Bangladesh, Colombia, and Senegal.
In the first three years of operation, SCILLS has awarded $3.5 million in grants to 17 projects. The new expansion includes three additional countries namely: Brazil, Ghana, and Indonesia.
Foundation projects
The foundation’s past projects have included:
• Helping entrepreneurs gain skills and find digital marketplaces
• Training youth in coding to access better job opportunities
• Supporting students’ use and access to the Internet
• Upskilling teachers in ICT to improve pedagogics and enhance student’s learning
Applications for SCILLS will open for Statements of Interest between 1 May and 24 May. Full applications will be due by 31 May. Decisions are anticipated in August. Grants of up to $250,000 will be awarded to eligible organizations for projects lasting 24 months.
