The internet we need
The Domain Name System (DNS) is a critical, foundational layer of the internet, translating domain names into IP addresses to enable all online services. However, the open source projects and maintainers who underpin this global infrastructure often struggle to secure sustainable funding. This lack of resources poses significant risks including maintainer burnout, delayed security updates, insufficient audits or even project abandonment. Ultimately, underfunded DNS projects create systemic risks, exposing millions of users to vulnerabilities and threatening the stability and security of the entire internet.
The Nominet DNS Fund aims to tackle these critical gaps by investing in the security, resilience, and long-term viability of these essential open source components, recognising that a robust and secure DNS is fundamental to the internet’s continued operation and the public benefit it provides.
Key Facts:
The Nominet DNS Fund (Fund) has been set up as part of Nominet’s work to support the Internet Community.
- Primary goal: Fund and improve the security, long-term sustainability, and resilience of DNS open source projects.
- Focus: Open source critical infrastructure components relevant to the development, deployment, and operation of the global DNS.
- Funding available: £370,000 available in this round, with a maximum of £100k per applicant.
- Key dates: applications open on 17th September and will close 26th October.
Apply for the fund
We’d love to hear from you. If you think your project aligns with the Fund, please apply. You can save and return to your application form at any time.
The scope of the fund
The Fund’s scope is targeted at the foundational open source software that is essential for the operation of the global DNS.
While not an exhaustive list, applications might focus on work related to components such as:
- Core DNS software, including authoritative servers and recursive resolvers.
- Widely-used libraries, modules, and toolkits for implementing DNS protocols.
- Software components essential for DNS security extensions, including DNSSEC, DNS-over-TLS (DoT), and DNS-over-QUIC (DoQ).
- Critical monitoring, testing, and diagnostic tools used to ensure the health, performance and security of the DNS ecosystem.
- Key data plane and control plane dependencies that are integral to the function of the above systems.
- Development and proposal of new or additional standards which will support the sustainability of the DNS ecosystem.
About the application assessment
Applications will be assessed by the DNS Fund Expert Advisory Panel.
This panel will make recommendations to Nominet on which proposals should be funded based on the following principles:
1. Public benefit
To what extent your work enable safe, secure and resilient running or critical infrastructure, whose loss or compromise could severely impact society?
2. Core need
Is there a demonstrable need? To what extent does the successful, resilient operation of the global DNS depend on this solution to operate?
3. Proven use
Is the technology or capability already being used successfully and at scale?
4. The right people
Does the person or team have the skills, experience, and understanding needed for this task? Do they have a track record of getting similar things done?
5. Value and sustainability
Does the proposal represent good value for money, and would the funded activity help ensure long-term sustainability?
Apply for the fund
We’d love to hear from you. If you think your project aligns with the Fund, please apply. You can save and return to your application form at any time.
Join our support session
The webinar will provide an overview of the Fund and is a chance to ask questions to support your application.
Date: Wednesday 1st October
Time: 15:00 – 16:00 (BST)
Meet our expert advisory panel
Share your feedback
If you have any feedback on the Fund, including improvements we could make so that it is more accessible or impactful, then please let us know.
If you’re unable to apply this year, but would like to be alerted when the Fund is next inviting proposals, please add your name and email address to the feedback. We’ll add your details to our mailing list so that we can notify you when the next round of funding is launched.
Please read our privacy notice for further information on how we process personal data.