ISIF Asia Digital Inclusion Grants 2026

The ISIF Asia Digital Inclusion Grants 2026 are administered by the APNIC Foundation, a non-profit entity that operates as the philanthropic arm of the APNIC Internet Registry. The foundation concentrates on building stable, secure, and accessible internet infrastructure throughout the Asia Pacific region. Its work involves partnering with technical bodies, government agencies, and local communities to address connectivity gaps and support projects that strengthen digital ecosystems. The foundation has a history of backing numerous initiatives that have improved network infrastructure, encouraged local content creation, and raised digital literacy levels across the region.

Funding under this programme ranges from ₹1,800,000 to ₹6,750,000 (equivalent to USD 20,000 to USD 75,000). Support is available for projects at different maturity levels, from early proof-of-concept and pilot efforts to larger, scalable deployments. Priority areas include IPv6 adoption, digital health, energy efficiency, disaster risk reduction, and open-source system development.

The grants aim to reinforce digital infrastructure, improve regional connectivity, and deliver measurable socio-economic benefits. Organisations working on digital innovation, technology solutions, or scalable infrastructure projects that support inclusive and sustainable internet access are well suited to apply.

The application process starts with the submission of a detailed concept note. This first document must set out the project's goals, the particular issue it addresses, the approach to be used, and the expected quantifiable results. Following this, applicants choose a suitable funding tier based on the project's size and likely effect. This tiered structure accommodates efforts ranging from early-stage testing to full-scale implementation. Every application is submitted via the official ISIF Asia portal, which hosts the full guidelines and submission criteria, helping to confirm that proposals match the programme's strategic focus and assessment standards.

Projects are assessed on evidence of practical viability, capacity to expand, and the likelihood of producing quantifiable results in improving internet connectivity or digital inclusion. Submissions need to tackle genuine issues and support the development of digital infrastructure and related capabilities in the communities they aim to serve, in line with the programme’s strategic focus and its stated assessment standards.