Open Source Grants You Can Apply for in 2026

A curated list of active grant programs that fund open source projects, with eligibility details and application tips.

Grants are one of the best funding options for open source — non-dilutive, often substantial, and designed for public goods. Here are the programs currently accepting applications.

They are not the fastest path to cash, but they can fund work that sponsorships rarely cover well: security hardening, infrastructure maintenance, standards work, documentation, and long-term public-good improvements. That makes them especially valuable for maintainers whose users benefit broadly but do not always donate directly.

Active grant programs

Sovereign Tech Fund

Sovereign Tech Fund funds open source infrastructure that is critical to the digital ecosystem. Based in Germany, funded by the German government.

• Amount: Varies (often EUR 50k-300k)
• Focus: Digital infrastructure, security, maintenance
• Who should apply: Maintainers of widely-used infrastructure projects

NLnet Foundation

NLnet funds open source projects focused on internet freedom, privacy, and open standards.

• Amount: Typically EUR 5k-50k
• Focus: Privacy, security, decentralization, open standards
• Who should apply: Projects aligned with internet freedom values

NumFOCUS

NumFOCUS supports open source scientific computing tools through small development grants.

• Amount: Typically USD 3k-10k (small development grants)
• Focus: Scientific computing, data science tools
• Who should apply: Maintainers of scientific Python/R/Julia libraries

OpenSSF

Open Source Security Foundation provides funding and resources for improving the security of open source software.

• Focus: Security tooling, audits, vulnerability management
• Who should apply: Projects focused on software supply chain security

Tips for grant applications

1. Read the criteria carefully — Each program has specific focus areas. Don’t waste time on programs that don’t match your project.
2. Be specific about impact — Describe exactly what you’ll build and who benefits.
3. Show existing traction — Grants favor projects with demonstrated usage and community.
4. Budget realistically — Include your time at a fair hourly rate, not just infrastructure costs.
5. Follow up — Application cycles can be slow. Follow up professionally after 4-6 weeks.

Which grant should you pursue first?

Start with the program whose mission language already sounds like your project. Infrastructure and public digital goods usually align best with Sovereign Tech Fund. Privacy, decentralization, and open protocols fit NLnet. Scientific tools fit NumFOCUS. Security-focused projects should look closely at the Open Source Security Foundation. A close match saves time and usually improves the odds of a serious review.

Not sure if grants are right for you? Try the Funding Finder for personalized recommendations across all funding types.