Up to $100,000 for Tech-Enabled Social Impact Projects – Cisco Global Impact Grants

The Cisco Global Impact Cash Grant Program supports nonprofits and NGOs developing innovative, technology-enabled solutions to significant social challenges, particularly programmes serving economically underserved communities.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Up to $100,000 for first-time grant recipients

• Cash grant funding for eligible programmes

• Applications accepted throughout the year

• Support for innovative, scalable social-impact solutions

• Funding for programmes using technology to increase reach and efficiency

• Projects should have measurable outcomes and clear impact metrics

• Solutions should have potential to be replicated and scaled

• Programmes must primarily benefit underserved communities

• Funding can support programme-related costs, although general operating costs aren't normally eligible.

Cisco prioritises four main areas:

• Crisis Response – food, housing, secure connectivity, disaster relief and other essential needs

• Education – skills, learning, student engagement and educational opportunities

• Economic Opportunity – employment, entrepreneurship, skills development and financial inclusion

• Climate Resilience – regenerative agriculture, conservation, clean energy, education and resilient communities.

Who can apply?

• Nonprofit organisations

• Nongovernmental organisations (NGOs)

• US organisations recognised as 501(c)(3) public charities

• Organisations outside the US that can demonstrate equivalency to a US public charity

• Organisations operating nationally or internationally

• Programmes where more than 65% of beneficiaries are economically underserved

• Organisations with overhead generally no higher than 25%

• Applicants whose programmes fit at least one of Cisco's four priority areas

• Individuals aren't eligible

• Healthcare-focused programmes, research programmes, schools, scholarships and most events aren't eligible.

The application starts with an eligibility quiz, followed by a Letter of Inquiry (LOI). Organisations that are a strong fit are then invited to submit a full proposal.

Deadline: Rolling – applications accepted year-round.