NLnet Foundation
Dutch nonprofit providing grants to open source and open standards internet projects with a focus on security, privacy, decentralization, and internet infrastructure.
Overview
NLnet Foundation is a Dutch nonprofit that has been funding open source internet and open standards work since 1982. NLnet provides grants to individuals and projects working on security, privacy, decentralization, open standards, and core internet infrastructure. In recent years, NLnet has become a key conduit for the European Commission's Next Generation Internet (NGI) initiative, administering several NGI Zero grant programs (NGI Zero Core, NGI Zero Entrust, NGI Zero Commons) that provide grants of up to EUR 50,000 per project for individual contributors and small teams. NLnet is particularly well-suited for technical infrastructure projects that improve the security and openness of the internet.
What You Can Find Here
- NGI Zero grants of up to EUR 50,000 for open source internet security and privacy projects
- NLnet Foundation direct grants for open standards and open internet infrastructure
- Multiple NGI programs: NGI Zero Core, NGI Zero Entrust, NGI Zero Commons, NGI Sargasso
- Support for cryptography, privacy-preserving protocols, decentralized systems, and open standards
- Regular open calls throughout the year - no fixed annual deadline
- Work funded under open source and open data licenses
Who Should Use This
- Individual developers and small teams working on open source internet infrastructure
- Researchers developing privacy-preserving technologies or cryptographic protocols
- Open standards contributors working on improvements to internet protocols
- Developers working on decentralized systems, peer-to-peer networks, or federated applications
- European projects (though applicants from anywhere can apply)
How to Get Started
- Step 1: Visit nlnet.nl and review the currently open grant programs
- Step 2: Read the thematic focus of each NGI program to find the best match for your project
- Step 3: Submit a short initial application through the NLnet website during an open call window
- Step 4: If selected for further consideration, provide a detailed project plan and budget
- Step 5: Grants are paid in milestones as deliverables are completed
Things to Check Before Applying
- NLnet focuses on technical internet infrastructure and protocols - non-technical or non-internet projects are typically not funded
- Funded work must be released under open source or open data licenses
- Individual contributors and small teams are welcome - large organisations may not fit the program scope
- The grant process is iterative - initial applications are short, with more detail requested only for promising projects
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for NLnet Foundation grants?
Individual developers, researchers, and small teams from anywhere in the world can apply. NLnet funds people, not just organizations.
What is the maximum NLnet/NGI grant size?
NGI Zero grants are typically up to EUR 50,000. Larger projects may qualify for higher amounts in specific programs. NLnet direct grants vary.
What types of projects does NLnet fund?
NLnet funds technical open source work: cryptography, privacy tech, decentralized protocols, open standards, internet security tools, and web infrastructure. Non-technical or closed-source projects are not funded.
How often does NLnet accept applications?
NLnet has rolling open calls throughout the year. There are typically 3-4 call periods per year. Check nlnet.nl for the next open call deadline.
Is NLnet only for European projects?
No. NLnet funds projects from anywhere in the world. However, NGI Zero grants are part of the European Next Generation Internet initiative and have some European connection requirements.
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