The Internet Society Foundation has launched a new grant programme that aims to expand economic growth, improve health outcomes, and increase educational opportunities by supporting individuals and communities to more knowledgeably and skillfully use the Internet.
The Internet Society Foundation’s Strengthening Communities, Improving Lives and Livelihoods (SCILLS) programme is open to eligible organizations in Bangladesh, Colombia, and Senegal; with expansion to additional countries planned in coming years. Grants of up to $150,000 will be awarded to organizations for projects lasting up to 24 months.
The programme is open for applications between 9 June and 5 July, and the grantees will be announced in early September.
“Though internet access has increased tremendously in the past decade, a gap persists between those who have the knowledge and skills to use the internet to tangibly improve their lives, and those who don’t,” said Sarah Armstrong, Executive Director of the Internet Society Foundation.
According to her, the SCILLS programme is expected to narrow this gap by supporting organizations whose work enables communities to acquire critical digital skills with the hope of improving a community’s education, health, and economic outcomes.
The Internet Society Foundation was established in 2019 to support the positive difference the Internet can make to people everywhere. In partnership with other change makers, the Foundation promotes the development of the Internet as a resource to enrich people’s lives, and serve as a force for good in society.
Focusing in six programme areas, the Foundation awards grants to Internet Society Chapters as well as non-profit organizations and individuals dedicated to providing meaningful access to an open, globally-connected, secure and trustworthy Internet for everyone.