MICROGRANTS FOR MEDIA, NGO, AND ACTIVIST INITIATIVES RESISTING INTERNET CENSORSHIP IN RUSSIA
About eQualitie
eQualitie is a Canadian not-for-profit organization dedicated to developing innovative IT solutions that support civil society. For over 12 years, we have been creating tools to combat internet censorship and help independent media and NGOs maintain their connection with audiences. Notable projects include the Ceno browser and Deflect.
In response to Runet’s increasing digital isolation, eQualitie regularly supports initiatives that promote freedom of speech and access to reliable, independent information within Russia. This year, as Runet faced new challenges and restrictions, we want to start 2025 with a spirit of solidarity and optimism by launching a new round of microgrants.
About the program
This is the fourth iteration of our microgrants program, which empowers projects focusing on digital security, bypassing censorship, data analysis, and addressing politically motivated internet restrictions. Whether you’re part of an anti-censorship media outlet, an NGO, or a grassroots activist group, we want to support your efforts to overcome digital barriers. If you need help finding a developer, data analyst, or digital security expert for your project, we can assist you.
Important update for our regular applicants
This time, grants ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 are meant for a short-term engagement of a technical specialist in digital security who will work on a particular task with your team for 1-3 months. Please take a close look at the list of topics that we support below.
Let’s start the New Year with solidarity, courage, and innovative ideas!
Topics and supported projects
We are accepting applications for projects in the following areas:
- Adoption and installation of web platforms and CMS
- Database development and optimization
- Data parsing and analytical processing
- Digital security audits
- Penetration testing for software and web systems
- Professional consultancy for organizational security policy setup
- Implementation of secure communication processes and systems
- Creation of technology strategies for projects or organizations
- Training staff in the secure and effective use of digital tools
Projects utilizing open-source technologies or free licenses will receive priority. Applications from registered organizations and activist teams are welcome.
Important Dates and Deadlines
- Project Duration: 1 to 3 months
- Application Period: up to January 31, 2025
- Results Announcement: February 10, 2025
Please visit the program’s website and policy page for additional information, program guidelines, and the application form.
Past Microgrant beneficiaries
People of Baikal
Go by forest
Solidarity Zone
Holod
Queer Svit
Na Svyazi helpdesk
How to apply?
To apply for this grant program, please use our official platform, HYPHA. It’s an open-source, secure platform hosted on our servers. HYPHA supports 2FA (Two-Factor Authentication). Hypha also allows you to easily track the progress of your application through a personal dashboard and use an integrated secure messaging system.
Here’s How to Get Started:
- Click the “Sign Up” button on HYPHA.
- Register using your email, follow the link in the email you receive, and create a secure password. For security reasons, we recommend using a strong alphanumeric password.
- After the registration, you’ll receive an email from grants[at]equalitie.org. Log in to your account on the application platform using your created password.
- Enable two-factor authentication for added security. Once completed, you can proceed to submit your application.
We look forward to your application!