APNIC Foundation
NGO/Foundation
Closed

ISIF Asia Digital Inclusion Grants 2026

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Quick answer

Funding for projects that improve digital inclusion and internet access across the Asia Pacific region.

Funding amount
₹18L – ₹67.5L (grant)
Funding type
Grant
Provider
APNIC Foundation (NGO/Foundation)
Application deadline
Closed (24 Apr 2026)
Eligible stage
Any stage
Location
Open to startups registered in India

Overview

The ISIF Asia Digital Inclusion Grants 2026 program, managed by the APNIC Foundation, offers financial support for initiatives dedicated to enhancing digital connectivity and access to essential online services throughout the Asia Pacific. This grant aims to foster socio-economic advancement by backing innovative projects that deploy scalable and sustainable digital solutions. It focuses on addressing real-world challenges to strengthen digital infrastructure and improve relevant skills within communities.

The program is designed to support a diverse range of projects, from those focusing on core internet infrastructure to those that facilitate access to critical digital services. By encouraging collaborative efforts across various sectors, the grants seek to amplify the impact of these solutions, ensuring broader reach and lasting benefits for underserved populations.

Highlights

  • Funding for projects enhancing digital inclusion and internet access.
  • Grants range from ₹1,800,000 to ₹6,750,000.
  • Open to technical organisations, NGOs, academic institutions, government agencies, and grassroots groups.
  • Projects must be implemented in the Asia Pacific region.
  • Focus on feasibility, scalability, and measurable outcomes.
  • Application deadline is 24 April 2026.

Who can apply

Applicants must represent entities such as technical organisations, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), academic institutions, government agencies, or grassroots groups. This broad eligibility ensures a comprehensive approach to digital inclusion, leveraging diverse expertise from solution deployment to community engagement and policy alignment.

Projects must be implemented within the Asia Pacific region. Proposed initiatives are required to demonstrate clear feasibility, scalability, and the potential for measurable outcomes in improving internet access or digital inclusion. Proposals should address tangible challenges and contribute to strengthening digital infrastructure and associated skills within their target communities. Collaboration between different sectors is strongly encouraged to maximise the potential impact of the solutions.

ISIF Asia Digital Inclusion Grants 2026 is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.

Eligible stage
Any stage
Location
Open to startups registered in India

Deadline & timing

The most recent application window for ISIF Asia Digital Inclusion Grants 2026 closed on 24 Apr 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.

What the funding covers

The program provides financial assistance for innovative projects focused on improving connectivity, infrastructure, and access to vital digital services across the Asia Pacific region. This funding is specifically allocated to initiatives that drive socio-economic progress through the implementation of scalable and sustainable digital solutions. The grants empower organisations to develop and deploy projects that make a tangible difference in bridging the digital divide and enhancing community capabilities.

About the provider

ISIF Asia Digital Inclusion Grants 2026 is offered by APNIC Foundation, a non-profit foundation. It is delivered directly by APNIC Foundation as a grant. You can verify current details and timelines on the provider's official website before applying.

How to apply

Applications are submitted on the official portal. Confirm the current deadline and document checklist there before you start.

Selection process

The application process begins with the submission of a comprehensive concept note. This initial document should clearly outline the project's objectives, the specific problem it intends to solve, the proposed methodology, and the anticipated measurable outcomes. Applicants will then select an appropriate funding tier based on their project's scope and potential impact. All submissions must be made through the official ISIF Asia portal, adhering to the detailed guidelines and requirements provided.

Projects are rigorously evaluated based on their demonstrated feasibility, scalability, and potential for measurable outcomes in enhancing internet access or digital inclusion. Proposals must effectively address real-world challenges and contribute to strengthening digital infrastructure and relevant skills within target communities. The evaluation ensures alignment with the program's strategic priorities and established criteria.

Documents you’ll need

Before you apply to ISIF Asia Digital Inclusion Grants 2026, keep the following documents ready:

  • A pitch deck or short business plan describing the problem, product and traction
  • Company registration documents and PAN
  • Founder identification (PAN / Aadhaar) and brief profiles
  • Recent financial statements or projections
  • Product details — a demo, prototype or working link if available

Exact requirements are confirmed on the official application portal — treat this as a preparation checklist.

Who this is best for

ISIF Asia Digital Inclusion Grants 2026 is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹18L – ₹67.5L. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.

Frequently asked questions

What is the ISIF Asia Digital Inclusion Grants 2026 program?

The ISIF Asia Digital Inclusion Grants 2026, offered by the APNIC Foundation, provides financial support for innovative projects aimed at improving internet access, infrastructure, and digital services across the Asia Pacific region.

What is the funding amount available through these grants?

The program offers grants ranging from ₹1,800,000 to ₹6,750,000 for eligible projects.

What is the application deadline for the 2026 grants?

The application deadline for the ISIF Asia Digital Inclusion Grants 2026 is 24 April 2026.

Who is eligible to apply for these grants?

Eligible applicants include technical organisations, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), academic institutions, government agencies, and grassroots groups that are based in and implementing projects within the Asia Pacific region.

What kind of projects does the program typically support?

The grants support projects that demonstrate feasibility, scalability, and potential for measurable outcomes in enhancing internet access or digital inclusion. Key thematic areas include IPv6 deployment, digital health, energy efficiency, disaster risk mitigation, and open-source systems.

Does this grant program take equity from recipient organisations?

No, the ISIF Asia Digital Inclusion Grants are a funding type of "grant," which means the program provides financial support without taking any equity in the recipient organisation.

What are the key criteria for project evaluation?

Projects are evaluated based on their demonstrated feasibility, scalability, and potential for measurable outcomes in enhancing internet access or digital inclusion. Proposals must address real-world challenges and contribute to strengthening digital infrastructure and relevant skills within target communities.

How do I apply for the ISIF Asia Digital Inclusion Grants?

The application process begins with submitting a comprehensive concept note through the official ISIF Asia portal. Detailed guidelines and submission requirements are available on the portal.

Is DPIIT recognition required for ISIF Asia Digital Inclusion Grants 2026?

No. DPIIT (Startup India) recognition is not listed as a mandatory requirement for ISIF Asia Digital Inclusion Grants 2026, though having it can strengthen your application and unlock other benefits.

Who offers ISIF Asia Digital Inclusion Grants 2026?

ISIF Asia Digital Inclusion Grants 2026 is offered by APNIC Foundation, a non-profit foundation. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.

Alternatives to ISIF Asia Digital Inclusion Grants 2026

Not sure ISIF Asia Digital Inclusion Grants 2026 is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.

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