Grantia

Next Generation Internet Fund (RIA)

Supports the development, maturation, and scaling of internet commons—such as free and open-source software, hardware, standards, data, and AI—to foster a resilient, trustworthy, and open internet. Targets innovators, researchers, and organizations addressing technical gaps across the full technology stack.

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Details

Agency

EU Commission

Status

Open

Language

English

Funding Type

Grant

Deadline

2026-04-01

Open Date

2026-02-01

Overview

Supports the development, maturation, and scaling of internet commons—such as free and open-source software, hardware, standards, data, and AI—to foster a resilient, trustworthy, and open internet. Targets innovators, researchers, and organizations addressing technical gaps across the full technology stack.

Who Can Apply

Legal entities (e.g., SMEs, startups, research institutions, non-profits, public bodies) established in EU Member States, Horizon Europe-associated countries, or Switzerland. Consortia are eligible but not required.

Funding Details

  • Total budget: €5 million (2026 call)
  • Funding per project: Up to €200,000 (lump sum)
  • Funding rate: 100% of eligible costs (no co-funding required)
  • Number of projects: Approximately 25–30

What Is Funded

  • Development, improvement, or scaling of free/open-source software, hardware, standards, data, or AI with societal or technical impact.
  • Full-stack solutions: From libre silicon and middleware to P2P infrastructure and end-user applications.
  • Critical gaps: Addressing technical debt, security, interoperability, or sustainability in internet infrastructure.
  • Open licensing: Project results must be released under a free/open-source license (e.g., GPL, MIT, Creative Commons).

Technology / Maturity Requirements

  • TRL range: 3–7 (proof-of-concept to system prototype demonstration in operational environment).
  • Existing projects: Evolution of mature open-source initiatives is encouraged.
  • Novelty: Disruptive or incremental innovations are both eligible if aligned with call objectives.

Key Dates

  • Call opens: 2026-01-31
  • Deadline: 2026-03-31T22:00:00Z

Application Process (High-Level)

  • Single-stage submission via the [NGI Zero Commons Fund portal](https://commons.ngi.eu).
  • Proposal requirements: Technical description, impact assessment, and open-source compliance plan.

Post-Award Obligations

  • Licensing: All outputs must be released under an approved open-source license.
  • Dissemination: Public documentation, source code availability, and participation in NGI community events.
  • Reporting: Periodic technical and financial reports (frequency and format specified in grant agreement).

Geographic Scope & Language

  • Eligible countries: EU Member States, Horizon Europe-associated countries, Switzerland.
  • Language: English (all application materials).

Notes

  • Exclusions: Proprietary solutions, closed-source projects, or efforts not aligned with open commons principles.
  • Alignment: Projects must contribute to the EU’s Web 4.0 vision or NGI initiative goals (e.g., decentralization, privacy, sustainability).
  • Swiss funding: Additional support available for Swiss applicants via SERI.