AI Policy and Governance Grant

AI Policy and Governance Grant is sponsored by Ford Foundation. The Ford Foundation's Technology and Society program funds research and advocacy on the social impact of AI and digital technologies, with a strong focus on equity and justice.

Ford Foundation Technology & Society Grant (Apply Now) | AI Safety Directory Ford Foundation Technology & Society Last updated : March 29, 2026 The Ford Foundation's Technology and Society program funds research and advocacy on the social impact of AI and digital technologies, with a strong focus on equity and justice.

Grants support work on algorithmic accountability, AI governance frameworks that center marginalized communities, and policy research on responsible AI regulation. The foundation emphasizes ensuring that AI safety efforts are inclusive and address disparate impacts on vulnerable populations.

Civil society organizations fairness governance ai policy responsible ai compliance The Ford Foundation's Technology and Society program is one of the most influential philanthropic initiatives focused on ensuring that digital technologies, including AI, serve justice and equity rather than reinforcing existing power imbalances.

The program funds research, advocacy, and organizing at the intersection of technology and social justice, with grants supporting work on algorithmic accountability, AI governance that centers marginalized communities, and policy research on responsible AI regulation. Ford's grantmaking has been instrumental in building the field of technology accountability.

Ford's approach to AI safety and governance emphasizes the perspectives and agency of communities most affected by AI deployment. The foundation funds organizations that investigate how AI systems impact people in domains such as criminal justice, housing, employment, immigration, and social services.

Beyond research, Ford supports advocacy and organizing efforts that translate accountability research into policy change and corporate practice improvements. The foundation's global reach extends AI accountability work to regions where technology governance infrastructure is still developing.

The Ford Foundation primarily makes grants through proactive outreach and invitation, though the foundation does accept unsolicited proposals through its website. Prospective grantees should submit a letter of inquiry describing their organization, proposed work, and connection to Ford's strategic priorities in technology and society.

Program officers review inquiries and may invite full proposals from organizations whose work aligns with the foundation's goals. Ford typically funds established nonprofit organizations and civil society groups with demonstrated track records in technology accountability, digital rights, or social justice advocacy. The foundation values organizational capacity, diversity of leadership, and connections to affected communities.

Multi-year general operating support is common, reflecting Ford's investment in building strong organizations rather than just funding individual projects. What Makes a Strong Application Strong Ford Foundation applicants demonstrate deep commitment to technology justice and a track record of impactful work on algorithmic accountability, digital rights, or AI governance.

The foundation values organizations led by and accountable to the communities most affected by AI deployment. Proposals that center the experiences of marginalized groups and that propose concrete mechanisms for democratic accountability over AI systems are particularly competitive. Ford appreciates organizations that combine rigorous research with effective advocacy and community engagement.

Proposals should articulate a clear theory of change explaining how the proposed work leads to policy change, corporate accountability, or improved outcomes for affected communities. Evidence of prior policy impact, coalition building, and sustainable organizational capacity strengthens applications. Frequently Asked Questions Does the Ford Foundation fund AI safety research?

Ford funds research and advocacy on AI accountability, governance, and social justice implications rather than technical AI safety research. Applied research on algorithmic bias, fairness auditing, and governance frameworks is within scope. Researchers focused on technical alignment may be better served by other funders.

Can organizations outside the US apply to the Ford Foundation? Yes. The Ford Foundation supports organizations globally, with regional offices in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East.

The technology and society program funds organizations working on AI governance and digital rights worldwide, with particular attention to Global South contexts. What types of organizations does Ford typically fund? Ford primarily funds nonprofit organizations, civil society groups, and advocacy organizations rather than academic institutions or individual researchers.

The foundation values organizations with strong community connections, diverse leadership, and demonstrated capacity for sustained impact. Hewlett Foundation AI Ethics Foundation grants for AI ethics, algorithmic accountability, and democratic AI governance. MacArthur Foundation Technology Foundation grants on AI accountability, governance, and ensuring AI serves the public interest.

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