Application Deadline:
14 December 2026
About Organisation
The Interledger Foundation is a nonprofit organisation working to expand access to open, interoperable digital financial systems. It supports technologies and initiatives that help make digital payments more accessible and inclusive. Through its education, research, and community programmes, the Foundation encourages universities, students, developers, and researchers to explore financial technology and develop solutions that improve participation in the digital economy.
About the Grant
The Interledger–NextGen Higher Education Grant 2026 supports accredited higher education institutions developing educational opportunities related to open payments, financial inclusion, interoperability, and emerging financial technologies. The programme encourages universities to introduce students to the technologies and concepts shaping the future of digital finance.
Eligible projects may include curriculum development, interdisciplinary research, student laboratories, hackathons, technical exploration, prototype development, and practical learning activities. Selected institutions can receive grants of up to US$50,000 to implement projects lasting up to 12 months.
The first application stage requires a Letter of Intent rather than a complete project proposal. Institutions whose submissions are shortlisted may subsequently be invited to submit a detailed application.
Who can Apply?
The programme is open to accredited or officially recognised higher education institutions worldwide, including eligible institutions in India. Applications must be submitted on behalf of the institution and led by an appropriate faculty member, department, research unit, or other recognised institutional unit.
Student clubs cannot independently receive the institutional grant, but they may participate in projects managed by an eligible university. Proposed activities should demonstrate a clear connection to open payments, digital financial inclusion, financial technology, or related educational objectives.
How to Apply?
Interested universities should visit the official Interledger Foundation programme page and review the application resources. Applicants must submit the prescribed application form, a Letter of Intent on the institution’s official letterhead, and proof of institutional accreditation or recognition.
The Letter of Intent should introduce the institution, explain the proposed project, identify the intended student participants, describe planned activities, and outline expected outcomes. Shortlisted institutions will receive instructions for the next stage of the process.
Application Deadline
The application deadline is 14 December 2026
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
