A new funding opportunity is offering up to $3 million to organisations working to expand digital access and financial inclusion in underserved communities worldwide.
- A new funding opportunity is offering up to $3 million to organisations working to expand digital access and financial inclusion...
- The Digital Inclusion Fund, administered through the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, is now...
- Backing Solutions That Expand Digital Access The initiative aims to help bridge the digital divide by supporting projects that improve broadband...
- Eligible expenditures include working capital, pilot deployments, technical assistance, capacity-building programmes, market research, feasibility studies, technology procurement, and monitoring and...
Keep reading for the full breakdown on Broadband funding — everything you need to know is covered below.
The Digital Inclusion Fund, administered through the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, is now accepting applications from eligible technology companies and organisations. The programme provides grants ranging from $150,000 to $3 million, with applications closing on 15 September 2026. The fund is open to applicants globally.
Backing Solutions That Expand Digital Access
The initiative aims to help bridge the digital divide by supporting projects that improve broadband connectivity, digital payments, and inclusive financial services for populations that remain underserved by traditional systems. According to the programme information, the fund focuses on practical solutions to increase access to technology and economic opportunities in emerging markets.
Digital inclusion has become a growing priority for development institutions as internet access and digital financial tools increasingly shape participation in modern economies. The IFC has continued to support private sector investments that promote innovation, job creation, and broader access to financial services across developing countries.
Funding for Deployment, Capacity Building and Research
Applicants may seek support for a wide range of activities. Eligible expenditures include working capital, pilot deployments, technical assistance, capacity-building programmes, market research, feasibility studies, technology procurement, and monitoring and evaluation activities. The programme also allows funding for investments aligned with environmental, social and governance objectives.
The flexible funding structure helps organisations move projects from concept to implementation and strengthen their ability to reach underserved populations through digital tools and services.
Eligibility Requirements
The Digital Inclusion Fund targets technology companies that have been operating for at least 1 year and can demonstrate a clear commitment to advancing inclusion through their business models or projects. The programme particularly seeks initiatives that can expand access to financial and digital services among unbanked and underserved communities.
Organisations implementing digital inclusion projects in emerging markets are also encouraged to explore the opportunity and review the detailed eligibility criteria before submitting an application.
Application Window Remains Open
Applications can be submitted through the official IFC Grants portal. The programme states that submissions typically take about 15 minutes to complete, with initial review decisions expected within four to six weeks. There are no application fees.
With funding available to support both pilot projects and broader expansion, the Digital Inclusion Fund offers an opportunity for organisations working to extend digital connectivity and financial access to communities that have often been left behind in the digital economy. Interested applicants have until 15 September 2026 to apply.