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.
applications are now open until 17th August 2026
To apply please complete our application form and send your submission before 9am BST on 17th August 2026.
You can view a PDF of the questions for review ahead of submission.
We are planning to hold a webinar on 7th July 15:00 – 16:00 BST to share more about the Fund and invite your questions.
Where the Nominet DNS Fund is making a difference
See the projects receiving support through the Fund and how they strengthen different parts of the DNS ecosystem.
The scope of the fund
The Fund’s scope is targeted at the foundational open source software that’s essential for the operation of the global DNS.
You can see examples of previously funded work and successful applicants in our news article.
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 enables safe, secure and resilient running of 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. Deployment pathway
- Does the technology or capability have a clear and credible pathway to deployment?
- Is the proposal coherent and viable in how it will maintain real-world infrastructure or software?
- Will it help maintain, succeed or future proof existing software?
- Can the project demonstrate practical use cases or clear demand?
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?
- How many contributors are on the project/team and is this sustainable?
5. Value and sustainability
- Does the proposal represent good value for money, and would the funded activity help ensure long-term sustainability?
Please note: The Fund isn’t designed for standalone research. We will consider funding hardware if it’s core to DNS operation such as performance testing, but deprioritise general kit. Any training or conference participation should reflect a small percentage of your overall budget.
Meet our expert advisory panel
Share your feedback
If you have any feedback on the Fund, including improvements we could make so that it’s more accessible or impactful, then please let us know.
If you’re unable to apply this time, 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 about updates related to the Fund or when the next window of funding is launched.
Please read our privacy notice for further information on how we process personal data.