The Community-Centered Connectivity (CCC) Grant Programme is an initiative of the Internet Society Foundation designed to support innovative, locally driven solutions that improve access to the internet in underserved communities. The programme focuses on closing the global digital divide by enabling affordable, reliable, and sustainable connectivity for populations that remain offline. More than 2 billion people worldwide still lack internet access, limiting their ability to access education, employment, healthcare, and essential public services. The CCC programme seeks to address this gap through community-led connectivity models that prioritise local ownership and long-term sustainability. Purpose of the Grant Programme The CCC Grant Programme supports initiatives that are designed for, with, or by local communities. Rather than relying solely on large-scale infrastructure projects, the programme encourages grassroots and community-driven approaches that are more adaptable to local needs. Key objectives include: Expanding affordable and reliable internet access Strengthening digital inclusion in underserved areas Supporting community ownership of connectivity solutions Enhancing digital literacy and adoption Promoting sustainable internet infrastructure models The programme recognises that traditional connectivity approaches often fail in rural, remote, or economically marginalised areas, and therefore prioritises locally grounded solutions. What Community-Centered Connectivity Means Community-centered connectivity refers to internet access solutions that are actively developed and managed with direct participation from local communities. These models ensure that connectivity is not externally imposed but is instead built around the needs, capacity, and priorities of the people who will use it. According to the programme framework, successful initiatives typically involve: Local participation in planning and implementation Community-based management and maintenance Affordable and context-appropriate technology solutions Capacity building and digital skills development This approach ensures long-term sustainability and strengthens local digital ecosystems. Funding Tracks and Support Levels The CCC programme offers two distinct funding tracks depending on the scale and maturity of the proposed project. Catalyst Track Funding up to USD $50,000 Duration: Up to 12 months Purpose: To develop or expand a single community connectivity solution Focus: Pilot projects and early-stage initiatives Scaling Track Funding up to USD $200,000 Duration: Up to 18 months Purpose: To expand proven connectivity solutions across multiple communities Focus: Scaling successful and tested models Both funding streams aim to support practical, community-driven solutions that improve access to the internet in underserved regions. Priority Areas and Target Communities The programme places special emphasis on supporting projects that serve marginalised and underserved populations. Priority is given to initiatives working with: Refugee and displaced communities Indigenous populations Women and girls Rural and remote communities Economically disadvantaged groups These priorities reflect the programme’s commitment to digital equity and inclusive development. Eligibility Criteria To apply for funding, organisations must meet specific eligibility requirements. Applicants must: Be a registered non-profit organisation or social enterprise Demonstrate technical and operational capacity to implement the proposed project Show clear alignment with programme objectives Be able to deliver projects within the proposed timeframe Applicants are encouraged to complete an eligibility assessment quiz provided by the Internet Society Foundation before submitting a full application. Application Process The application process is conducted through the Foundation’s online grant management system (Fluxx). All submissions must be completed in English, French, or Spanish. Key application steps include: Reviewing eligibility criteria and programme guidelines Completing the online eligibility quiz Submitting a full application through the Fluxx platform Participating in optional information sessions (if available) Applications are assessed based on technical merit, community impact, sustainability, and alignment with programme goals. Timeline for Applications The application window for the 2026 cycle is clearly defined: Opening date: 17 March 2026 Closing date: 7 May 2026 (21:00 UTC) Applications submitted after the deadline are not considered. Expected Outcomes of Funded Projects Projects supported under the CCC Grant Programme are expected to deliver measurable and sustainable outcomes, including: Increased internet access in underserved communities Improved digital literacy and skills development Strengthened community-led infrastructure management Enhanced economic and educational opportunities Long-term sustainability of connectivity solutions The programme aims to ensure that connectivity initiatives lead to meaningful and lasting social impact. Programme Approach and Philosophy The Internet Society Foundation emphasises that meaningful connectivity goes beyond infrastructure. It involves ensuring that individuals and communities can effectively access, use, and benefit from the internet. The CCC programme is grounded in three core principles: Availability: Ensuring internet access exists in underserved areas Affordability: Making connectivity economically accessible Adoption: Supporting communities to use digital tools effectively This holistic approach ensures that connectivity leads to real development outcomes rather than just technical access. Reporting and Accountability Successful grantees are required to: Monitor and report project progress regularly Demonstrate financial accountability and transparency Share outcomes and lessons learned Contribute to broader knowledge on community connectivity models These requirements ensure effective use of funds and support continuous learning across the programme. Summary The Community-Centered Connectivity Grant Programme, led by the Internet Society Foundation, is a global initiative aimed at closing the digital divide through locally driven solutions. By supporting community-led connectivity projects, the programme strengthens digital inclusion, improves access to opportunities, and promotes sustainable internet infrastructure in underserved regions worldwide. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.