To ensure transparency and accountability in our grantmaking process, the Foundation works with independent External Reviewers to review, score and provide recommendations on applications submitted for funding. These experts are leading practitioners from across a range of Internet-related fields, including development, policy, security, research and innovation as well as international development.
Once applications have been received and pre-screened by the Foundation team, they are then assigned to our independent External Reviewers. Applications are reviewed by three to five experts who are chosen based on their individual knowledge of the subject matter and/or target country/region. As part of their review, they recommend which applications should be funded and at what funding level, as well as document feedback for the applicant that is compiled and shared by the Foundation. Throughout this process, External Reviewers are required to adhere to the Foundation’s Conflict of Interest Policy.
Once all applications for a funding area or program have been reviewed and final funding decisions made, we share the decisions with each applicant.
The Foundation does not provide individualized feedback to applicants not selected for funding
The Foundation’s application process is highly competitive and receives a large volume of requests from organizations across the globe. As a result, the Foundation is unable to provide personalized feedback to those not chosen for funding. Please note that rejection does not mean that your project lacks value.
While the Foundation desires to support all worthy initiatives, we must balance our aspirations with finite resources. The Foundation remains steadfast in its commitment to creating a more inclusive and accessible Internet for everyone. We encourage all organizations working towards this critical goal to persevere and explore innovative solutions. Your work is essential in realizing a fairer and more connected digital world, and we applaud your dedication to this vision. Together, we can continue advancing toward a more equitable and accessible digital future for all.
For additional resources and guidance, please visit our website at https://www.isocfoundation.org/resources/grant-application-guidance/.