NLnet

NLnet

Live
Last updated · Update this page

NLnet is a long-running Dutch foundation that funds open technologies intended to strengthen the digital commons, from open-source software to open hardware and standards work. In addition to grants, many NLnet programs also provide support services such as security audits, accessibility reviews, testing, licensing help, and mentoring.

You are viewing: NLnet

Goal: Funding. Model: Grants. Status: Live.

Should you use this?

Best for
Infrastructure, public-good, research, security, or ecosystem work with a clear proposal.
Not ideal for
Projects that need quick cash or cannot match a program's eligibility criteria.
Why choose it
Well-known grantmaker for open standards, privacy, and internet freedom projects. Best for builders with a concrete roadmap and public-interest mission.
Watch out for
Grant cycles are competitive, time-bound, and tied to funder priorities.
Setup effort
Medium
Fees
NLnet is a grantmaker, not a marketplace. Applicants do not pay a platform fee to apply for or receive funding.
Last verified
2026-03-15
Goal Funding
Model Grants
Tags
Non-profit OSS-specific
Official websiteVisit official website
VerificationUnverified
X@NLnetFDN
OrganizationNon-profit
Open source statusOpen source mission-driven foundation
Platform technologyNon-profit grantmaking foundation
Monetization modelGrant funding and support services for open technologies
Payment methodsGrant contracts, bank transfers, and donation channels including bank transfer and digital currencies
Platform feesNLnet is a grantmaker, not a marketplace. Applicants do not pay a platform fee to apply for or receive funding.
User activityNLnet says the NGI Zero coalition has supported over one thousand free and open source projects overall, including 314 projects in the Commons Fund alone.

Related projects