DC, United States, June 23, 2026, CyberNewswire
Applications have officially opened today, running from June 23 until August 4, 2026, for nonprofits aimed at enhancing cybersecurity for civil society. This initiative has emerged from the Internet Society Foundation, which has launched a global call for applications for the Common Good Cyber Fund (CGCF). This funding program is committed to supporting nonprofit organizations dedicated to safeguarding the online environment and bolstering the fundamental cybersecurity infrastructure of the Internet.
The current phase of the CGCF represents a significant step forward following its inaugural launch in 2025 and a pilot phase that successfully awarded six initial grants. These preliminary grants were designed to address pressing vulnerabilities within the global cybersecurity landscape. Through this new round of funding, the Fund aims to distribute a substantial amount exceeding USD $3.5 million through approximately 15 two-year grants to various qualifying organizations.
The Common Good Cyber Fund is an integral part of the broader Safer Internet Initiative, spearheaded by the Internet Society. This initiative aims to ensure that not only can individuals access the Internet, but that they also can do so in a safe and secure manner. Over the next four years, from 2026 to 2029, the Internet Society, along with its foundation, plans to allocate more than USD $40 million to programs designed to promote a safer Internet, leveraging both organizational resources and contributions from various donors.
Sally Wentworth, the President and CEO of the Internet Society and the Internet Society Foundation, emphasized the necessity of supporting nonprofits focused on cybersecurity, recognizing the essential role they play in defending online civic spaces. Despite their importance, these organizations often lack sufficient resources to carry out their missions effectively. Wentworth stated, “We are proud that the Common Good Cyber Fund supports this community and helps protect those most at risk.”
The CGCF is structured to provide financial assistance specifically to nonprofits engaged in crucial areas of the cybersecurity ecosystem. This includes the maintenance of critical cybersecurity infrastructure, offering scalable support to protect Internet users from various forms of digital harm—including state-directed cyber activity and instances of digital transnational repression. Furthermore, the Fund targets the advancement of a safer Internet for vulnerable demographics, encompassing civil society activists and journalists who often face distinct cybersecurity challenges.
As part of its mission, the Internet Society Foundation oversees the grant-making aspects of the CGCF in collaboration with the Common Good Cyber Ecosystem Committee and a Strategic Advisory Committee. This cooperative approach is supported by pooled donations from a wide range of contributors, including the governments of Australia, Canada, Germany, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom, as well as philanthropic efforts from Craig Newmark Philanthropies and the foundation itself. This collaborative funding model signifies a collective global commitment to the enhancement of cybersecurity as a public good, aiming to ensure that nonprofit organizations possess the essential resources to function sustainably and at scale.
Applications for the funding are open to eligible nonprofit organizations worldwide, with the call remaining active until 21:00 UTC on August 4, 2026. Prospective applicants are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the eligibility requirements and application process, which can be accessed through the Internet Society Foundation’s official website.
The Internet Society Foundation operates under the principle that the transformative power of the Internet can significantly improve lives. Believing firmly in the vision of the Internet as an accessible resource for all, the Foundation actively supports initiatives that promote an open, globally connected, secure, and trustworthy Internet. Through strategic funding and collaborations, the Foundation aims to expand digital accessibility, foster innovation, and tackle critical issues across various sectors such as education, healthcare, and economic opportunity. Since its establishment in 2019, the Foundation has been devoted to unlocking the full potential of the Internet for communities around the globe.
For further details, media representatives and interested parties can reach out to the Internet Society Foundation’s Media Relations team.