The Internet Society Foundation is thrilled to announce the launch of the 2024 edition of our Building Opportunities/Leveraging Technologies (BOLT) Grant Program. This initiative is designed to support teams of innovators dedicated to improving Internet access and connectivity in unconnected or underserved communities worldwide.
The BOLT Grant Program focuses on developing access and connectivity solutions in communities where current technologies are not easily accessible or available. By providing grants of up to USD $300,000, the program aims to support the creation of innovative prototypes and pilots that can bridge the digital divide and bring secure, affordable Internet to more people.
In 2023, the BOLT Grant Program made significant strides, impacting over 93,000 individuals, including women, students, and indigenous communities. These efforts have opened new opportunities for education, communication, and economic development in various parts of the world.
Key Details for the 2024 BOLT Grant Program
- Grant Amount: Up to USD$300,000
- Project Duration: Up to 18 months
- Application Period: Opens on 2 July 2024 and closes on 6 August 2024 at 21:00 UTC.
“The Internet Society Foundation is committed to eliminating obstacles that hinder global access to the Internet. In a world where one-third of the population still remains unconnected, our grants support creative and sustainable solutions that foster universal Internet access and connectivity for communities around the world,” stated Maiko Nakagaki, Senior Program Officer.
Spotlight on BOLT Program Awardees
The BOLT Grant Program has previously supported a diverse range of projects aimed at improving Internet connectivity:
- Unconnected Foundation – Malawi: Received USD $300,000 to establish a Community WiFi Network across 50 schools, addressing the region’s low Internet penetration and high access costs.
- Internet Society Argentina Chapter: Received USD $297,266 to deploy a community and scientific network in Las Lagunitas, Argentina, including technical training, network installation, and sustainable energy solutions.
- Mycelia Foundation – United States: Awarded USD $288,402 for the Digital Equity Network Expansion Project in New Mexico, aiming to provide residential broadband access to 150 additional households.
- Instituto Nupef – Brazil: Received USD $200,000 to support the testing of new wireless technologies to enhance Internet connectivity for sparse, low-density communities, especially in the Northern region of Brazil.
- Close the Gap International and Media Matters for Women – Sierra Leone: Awarded USD $234,005 to launch Digitruck Salone, a digital classroom project empowering students and female entrepreneurs in rural communities.
Webinars
If you want to learn more about the Program, please register for our webinar.
9 July at 1 p.m. UTC – English Only. Register at https://isoc.pub/3Y63lm3
11 July at 12 p.m. UTC – Interpretation Available in SP and FR. Register at https://isoc.pub/3xGttZL
Apply Now
We are seeking applications from teams of technologists, researchers, and social and cultural workers who are working on innovative solutions to improve Internet access and connectivity. We encourage you to apply if you are passionate about making a difference and have a project that aligns with our vision and funding requirements.
For more information and to apply, visit our BOLT Grant Program page. Join us in our mission to connect the unconnected and create a more inclusive digital world.