The Digital Freedom Fund Call for Grant Applications 2025–2026 is now open. Learn how to apply, eligibility, deadlines, funding process and key dates for digital rights strategic litigation.
Digital Freedom Fund Call for Grant Applications 2025–2026: Apply Now for Strategic Litigation Funding in Europe
The Digital Freedom Fund Call for Grant Applications 2025–2026 is officially open, offering organisations across Europe the opportunity to secure funding for initiatives that advance digital rights through strategic litigation. Over the past eight years, the Digital Freedom Fund (DFF) has supported a growing network of organisations working to protect fundamental rights in the digital sphere. Its grantmaking programme has evolved significantly, with increased participation, broader thematic diversity and strengthened community engagement.
This new funding round continues DFF’s mission to foster impactful litigation efforts in areas such as privacy, data protection, digital democracy, AI regulation, discrimination and broader human rights issues arising in digital environments. Organisations interested in submitting a proposal are encouraged to review the full application guidelines available on the DFF website at:
https://digitalfreedomfund.org
About the Digital Freedom Fund Call for Grant Applications 2025–2026
The Digital Freedom Fund Call for Grant Applications 2025–2026 runs from 1 December 2025 to 17 February 2026. During this period, DFF welcomes proposals aimed at advancing digital rights across Europe. Funding is available for litigation work, preparatory actions, legal research, community mobilisation, and other activities linked to strategic court action.
The application process follows a participatory decision-making model introduced in previous cycles. Instead of DFF alone determining the outcome, a community peer group reviews applications and recommends which projects to support. This approach ensures inclusivity and transparency, reflecting the diverse perspectives within the digital rights ecosystem.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to consult the “How to Apply” page and the available guides at:
https://digitalfreedomfund.org/funding
Important Dates for the Digital Freedom Fund Call for Grant Applications 2025–2026
To support planning, the following timeline outlines the full application cycle:
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1 December 2025: Call for applications opens
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15 December 2025 – 9 January 2026: DFF grants team unavailable (eligibility checks may be submitted but responses will be delayed)
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17 February 2026: Call for applications closes (eligibility requests cannot be submitted after this date)
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25 February 2026: Final deadline for full applications for those approved at the eligibility stage
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March – May 2026: Application review period
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June 2026: Funding decisions announced
The entire review process typically spans approximately three months from the deadline. While DFF aims to uphold this timeline, applicants should note that it does not constitute a formal contractual commitment.
Application Process
The Digital Freedom Fund Call for Grant Applications 2025–2026 consists of four key steps designed to ensure clarity and fairness:
Step 1: Eligibility Check
Applicants must complete a short eligibility form to confirm that their project aligns with DFF’s funding criteria. Only those deemed eligible may proceed to the full application.
Step 2: Full Application
Eligible applicants submit a detailed proposal outlining their strategy, objectives, legal approach, community impact and planned activities. Supporting documentation must be included.
Step 3: Evaluation by Panel of Experts or Community Peer Group
Applications undergo a participatory review process in which peers in the digital rights community evaluate submissions based on relevance, strategic value and human rights impact.
Step 4: Decision by the DFF Board
Final approvals are issued by the DFF Board following peer recommendations.
Full details on each stage are available at:
https://digitalfreedomfund.org/how-to-apply
Ask Us Anything Sessions
During the Digital Freedom Fund Call for Grant Applications 2025–2026, applicants have the opportunity to attend live Q&A sessions to clarify doubts, understand the process and receive guidance. Upcoming sessions include:
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8 December 2025 at 11:00 CET
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14 January 2026 at 10:00 CET
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4 February 2026 at 11:00 CET
To register, applicants should email the DFF grants team at:
grants@digitalfreedomfund.org
How to Apply
Eligible organisations can begin their application through the official DFF application portal.
Apply Here
https://digitalfreedomfund.org/apply
Application Deadline
17 February 2026
Applicants seeking support or clarification are encouraged to explore DFF’s FAQ page or contact the grants team directly.
Conclusion
The Digital Freedom Fund Call for Grant Applications 2025–2026 provides a vital mechanism for supporting litigation efforts that defend digital rights, challenge discriminatory technologies and strengthen democratic participation. With a strong commitment to community-driven decision making and transparent funding, DFF continues to empower organisations working to advance digital justice across Europe.
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