ISIF Asia Digital Inclusion Grants 2026

• Startups, NGOs and research bodies building solutions for digital inclusion across Asia.

About this scheme

The ISIF Asia Digital Inclusion Grants 2026 are managed by the APNIC Foundation, a leading non-profit organization deeply committed to fostering a stable, secure, and accessible internet across the Asia Pacific region. As the philanthropic arm of the APNIC Internet Registry, the foundation leverages its deep regional expertise and network to address critical digital divides. Its core mandate involves fostering resilient digital ecosystems by backing innovative projects that enhance connectivity, infrastructure, and access to crucial digital services. Through its flagship ISIF Asia grants, the foundation actively collaborates with various stakeholders, including technical organisations, governments, and local communities, to tackle pressing real-world challenges specific to the region. Its initiatives are designed to improve Internet reliability, advocate for the adoption of open technologies, and ultimately stimulate socio-economic progress by enabling the deployment of scalable and sustainable digital solutions tailored to meet diverse regional requirements. The foundation's extensive track record includes supporting hundreds of projects that have significantly advanced network infrastructure, promoted local content development, and enhanced digital literacy, impacting millions of lives. It operates with a strong belief in open standards, collaborative development, and empowering local communities to build their own digital futures.

The program provides financial support ranging from Rs. 1,800,000 to Rs. 6,750,000 (equivalent to USD 20,000 to USD 75,000). This funding is available for projects at various stages, from initial proof-of-concept and pilot initiatives to more mature, scalable solutions. Key areas of focus for the grants include the deployment of IPv6, advancements in digital health, initiatives promoting energy efficiency, strategies for disaster risk mitigation, and the development of open-source systems.

The primary objective of these grants is to fortify digital ecosystems, enhance overall connectivity across the region, and generate significant socio-economic impact. This opportunity is particularly suitable for organisations engaged in digital innovation, developing effective tech solutions, and implementing scalable infrastructure projects that collectively contribute to more inclusive and sustainable Internet access for all.

Who can apply

• Applicants must represent technical organisations, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), academic institutions, government agencies, or grassroots groups.
• The requirement for applicants to represent diverse entities ensures a multi-faceted approach to digital inclusion.
• Technical organizations bring expertise in deploying innovative solutions, while NGOs and grassroots groups ensure projects are community-centric and reach underserved populations.
• Academic institutions contribute research and development, and government agencies facilitate policy alignment and large-scale implementation.
• Projects must be implemented within the Asia Pacific region.
• Proposed initiatives should clearly demonstrate feasibility, scalability, and the potential for measurable outcomes in enhancing Internet access or digital inclusion.
• This ensures that the proposed solutions can be effectively implemented and expanded to achieve lasting impact across different communities within the vast Asia Pacific region.
• Proposals are expected to address real-world challenges and contribute to the overall strengthening of digital infrastructure and relevant skills within the target communities.
• Emphasizing measurable outcomes helps track the effectiveness and reach of these digital inclusion efforts.
• Collaboration between different sectors is highly encouraged to amplify the potential impact of the proposed solutions.

Eligible entity types: Private Limited, LLP, Section 8 / NGO

Benefits & funding

• The program provides financial support for innovative projects aimed at enhancing connectivity, infrastructure, and access to crucial digital services across the Asia Pacific region.
• This funding is designed to back initiatives that stimulate socio-economic progress by enabling the deployment of scalable and sustainable digital solutions.

How the application process works

The journey below is informational, compiled from the official program guidelines. Applications are submitted directly with APNIC Foundation, in your own name.

1. 1

   Projects are evaluated based on their demonstrated feasibility, scalability, and potential for measurable outcomes in enhancing internet access or digital inclusion.

2. 2

   Proposals must address real-world challenges and contribute to strengthening digital infrastructure and relevant skills within target communities, aligning with the program's strategic priorities and evaluation criteria.

Documents checklist 1

• Concept Note

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Frequently asked questions