The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative aimed at fostering global internet accessibility. In an announcement made today, ICANN declared the commencement of the application process for its inaugural Grant Program. This initiative marks a pivotal step in advancing the organization’s mission to facilitate an open, resilient, and universally accessible internet landscape.
With an initial allocation of up to $10 million in funding, the ICANN Grant Program is set to empower selected projects dedicated to amplifying internet connectivity worldwide. Amidst projections from the World Economic Forum indicating that 70% of future economic value will stem from digital platforms, ICANN’s program aims to address the stark reality that 3.2 billion individuals remain disconnected from the online sphere, depriving them of transformative opportunities.
The program is poised to embrace innovative solutions that align with ICANN’s core objectives. Projects fostering innovation, open standards, and diversity within the internet community will be given precedence. Furthermore, initiatives that enhance the development and distribution of services pivotal to the internet’s unique identifier systems will be supported. Emphasizing inclusivity, ICANN aims to ensure broad participation from diverse stakeholder communities and geographical regions.
In Kenya, a nation witnessing rapid internet expansion yet grappling with accessibility challenges, the ICANN Grant Program offers a gateway to transformative change. With an invitation extended to Kenyan entities and individuals, the program encourages tailored solutions designed to address the country’s specific needs. This presents an unprecedented opportunity for the Kenyan tech ecosystem to pioneer groundbreaking initiatives that bridge the digital divide and foster inclusivity.
Commenting on the initiative, Sally Costerton, Interim President and CEO of ICANN, underscored the imperative of extending internet access to underserved communities. Costerton highlighted the indispensable role of the internet in various facets of daily life, stressing the need to dismantle barriers hindering universal connectivity. Through the ICANN Grant Program, the organization is committed to supporting visionary ideas that propel the evolution of internet infrastructure, thereby nurturing a more inclusive digital landscape.
The application window for the ICANN Grant Program will remain open until May 24, 2024, providing ample opportunity for aspiring innovators to submit their proposals. The organization anticipates announcing the recipients of the first cycle grants in January 2025, marking a significant milestone in its quest to democratize internet access on a global scale.
