The Internet Society Foundation has launched a second round of grant funding through its SCILLS programme to support digital skills development. In its second year, the Strengthening Communities, Improving Lives and Livelihoods (SCILLS) programme aims to expand economic growth and increase educational opportunities by supporting individuals and communities to more knowledgeably and skillfully use the Internet. Grants of up to $150,000 will be awarded to eligible organizations in Bangladesh, Colombia and Senegal for projects lasting up to 24 months.

“Gaining access to the Internet is the first step in closing the digital divide. The next step is equipping people with the knowledge they need to use the Internet in a way that tangibly improves their lives,” said Sarah Armstrong, Executive Director of the Internet Society Foundation. “Our SCILLS grants are supporting communities in acquiring these critical digital skills, skills that when harnessed, have the potential to improve a community’s education and economic outcomes.”

The programme is open for expressions of interest between 3 May and 28 May, and the grantees will be announced in late August.

About the Internet Society Foundation:

The Internet Society Foundation was established in 2019 to support the positive difference the Internet can make to people everywhere. Guided by our vision of an Internet for Everyone, the Foundation champions ideas and enables communities to unlock the Internet's potential to tackle the world’s evolving challenges. Focusing in five programme areas, the Foundation awards grants to Internet Society Chapters as well as non-profit organizations and individuals dedicated to providing meaningful access to an open, globally-connected, secure and trustworthy Internet for everyone.