The Internet Society Foundation committed $700,000 in 2026 to support 60 internet governance sponsorships across 41 countries. Funding covers the global Internet Governance Forum (IGF), 34 national and regional IGFs, and 25 schools focused on internet governance.
The program aims to bring a wider range of people into discussions about how the internet is managed and develops. The IGF brings together governments, technical experts, civil society, businesses, researchers, and internet users. National and regional forums and governance schools extend those discussions into local communities.
Internet Society chapters received 35% of this year’s sponsorships. The organization says chapters help connect communities with governance processes and give emerging internet leaders opportunities to build knowledge and participate.
Since 2021, the Foundation has awarded 289 sponsorships to internet governance initiatives, totaling $2,621,487. According to the Internet Society, the support can help participants build connections and continue engaging in internet-related debates beyond the events themselves.
Applications for the IGF Event Sponsorship Program are scheduled to reopen in January 2027. The Internet Society says overall funding will increase next year in response to continued demand.
Sources: Internet Society.