FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of efforts does OTF support?
OTF supports research, development, and implementation efforts focused on increasing:
- Access to the internet, including circumvention tools;
- Awareness of access, privacy, or security threats, including research, censorship detection, measurement platforms, and increasing digital security know-how among targeted groups;
- Privacy for at-risk users; and
- Security against threats to internet access and safety.
Does OTF support projects, individuals, or both?
OTF does not have any requirements regarding an applicant’s status - whether for-profit, nonprofit, or a single individual, located inside or outside the United States, so long as the proposed effort fits within OTF’s mission, goals, and focus areas, it may be considered.
OTF supports both individuals and projects through several different funding mechanisms:
- Fellowships
Does my project sound like something OTF would support?
OTF encourages any potential applicant to first explore OTF’s mission, goals, and primary focus areas. If it sounds like your project might be a good fit, you’ll want to identify which fund or fellowship is most appropriate for you. From there, submitting a concept note is the best next step.
When does OTF accept applications? When are the deadlines?
For the Internet Freedom Fund and the Technology at Scale Fund
- OTF accepts applications on a rolling basis for the Internet Freedom Fund and the Technology at Scale Fund.
For the Rapid Response Fund
- OTF accepts and reviews applications for its Rapid Response Fund on an ongoing basis as they’re received. There is no deadline for Rapid Response so that digital emergencies can be confronted as they arise.
For Fellowships
- The Information Controls Fellowship Program (ICFP) accepts applications on an annual basis, accepting applications in the spring—typically from mid-February to mid-March.
For Labs
Is there a minimum or maximum monetary amount for funding requests?
For the Internet Freedom Fund
- Minimum of $10,000 and maximum of $900,000 for a year-long contract. Note, however, that OTF’s target support ceiling is $300,000; most supported efforts receive between $50,000 and $200,000.
For the Rapid Response Fund
- Minimum $1 and maximum of $50,000 for a period of no longer than six months.
For Fellowships
- Fixed monthly stipend
I submitted an application. When can I expect to receive a response?
Immediately after submitting your application, you should receive an email from OTF confirming that we have received your submission. You'll receive a determination notice 6-8 weeks after your application submission date.
Applications for the Rapid Response Fund are reviewed as quickly as possible. We make every effort to make a decision within five days.
Does OTF support projects that are commercial or proprietary in nature?
OTF places high priority on funding tools that are open-source and freely available to download and use, ensuring a low barrier to user adoption and use.
Does OTF support overhead costs?
OTF generally does not support standalone costs which are not directly associated with the completion of contractually stated objectives or deliverables. In the very limited instances where OTF determines that an overhead cost is permissible, such costs cannot be greater than 10% of the overall project cost. More information can be found here under the "Overhead" section.
Do I have to include an attachment with my application?
Attaching a resume or CV is required for first time applicants. If you’re applying as an organization, include those of staff that will actually be working on the project. Beyond this requirement, if you have something you feel strengthens your application and it can’t be added as a link, including such materials as an attachment is fine.
In what language should I submit my application?
Please note that English is the language of record for all applications, and those submitted in other languages may not be reviewed as competitively as those submitted in English.
Last modified 1mo ago
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