> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.opentech.fund/otf-application-guidebook/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.opentech.fund/otf-application-guidebook/our-funds-and-fellowships/information-controls-fellowship-program-icfp.md). # Information Controls Research Program Supporting individuals researching repressive internet censorship and surveillance OTF’s Information Controls Research Program (ICRP) supports individuals conducting research into how repressive governments are restricting the free flow of information, cutting access to the open internet, and implementing censorship mechanisms; and the ways in which these threats to internet freedom may be countered. Supporting a diverse range of multidisciplinary research activities, the ICRP may fund projects that seek to develop or refine tools and techniques used to monitor internet interference worldwide, or others looking to analyze targeted online threats and attacks against at-risk groups (such as civil society organizations, journalists, or activists) in specific geographic areas.\ \ A more detailed look at program's scope and desired criteria can be found on the [Information Controls Research Program page.](https://www.opentech.fund/research-2/icrp/) ### *Important Considerations* {% hint style="info" %} ICRP researchers work out of a host organization of their choosing for the duration of their project, which may last for three, six, nine, or 12 months. {% endhint %} {% hint style="info" %} ICRP offers researchers a monthly stipend of $7,000 USD, a travel stipend of up to $5,000 USD (depending on the project length), and an equipment stipend of up to $5,000 USD (depending on the project length). {% endhint %} {% hint style="success" %} For the duration of their project, the researcher will be expected to work full time with their host organization. Ideally, researchers are working locally with their host organization but applicants may propose to work remotely with the expectation that a strategy for remote communications is established. {% endhint %} {% hint style="success" %} Objectives should be ambitious while still measurable and achievable, with month-by-month activities and milestones listed accordingly. {% endhint %} {% hint style="success" %} Proposed ICRP projects should exhibit originality, substance, precision, and relevance to the mission of promoting freedoms of expression, assembly, and association online. This means considering how your project directly impacts users in repressive environments. {% endhint %} {% hint style="warning" %} Projects should include a technical component to technical output. For example, one former researcher created a dashboard with internet shutdown data and analysis for others interested in the topic. We recommend reviewing the projects of [previous researchers](https://www.opentech.fund/fellows/?include-former=yes) to understand the types of outputs projects might produce. {% endhint %} ### *When to Apply* We accept applications for the ICRP on an annual basis. The 2026 application was open from July 27, 2026 to September 7, 2026. ### *Review Process* 1. **Application Submission and Review**: After the deadline for ICRP’s annual application window passes, we review each application received, assigning two OTF team members to individually review it. During this phase, we may reach out to ask some clarifying questions about your application. 2. **Application Determination**: Once we’ve had the chance to review your application and ask clarifying questions if needed, we’ll then contact you (along with all applicants for that round) via email and inform you whether your application will be advanced to the full proposal stage or declined. If we’ve declined your application, we’ll provide you with feedback on why it was not approved. 3. **Proposal Invitation**: If you’re invited to submit a full proposal, you’ll have the chance to expand on the idea you presented in your initial application, fleshing out your plan in a more focused, detailed form. We will specify a date by which the full proposal will need to be submitted.
4. **Advisory Council Review**: Each ICRP proposal is reviewed by at least two [Advisory Council](https://www.opentech.fund/about/people-type/advisory-council/) (AC) members, as well as two OTF team members.
5. **Proposal Determination**: Upon successful review by the OTF team and AC, we will inform you whether your proposal has been accepted or declined. After AC review takes place, we may reach out to ask some clarifying questions about your application.
6. **Legal Review**: Approved proposals are reviewed by our executive, legal, and financial departments. If you reach this stage, your OTF Program Manager will work with you on completing this step.
7. **Contract Issued**: Once the contract has been approved, it will be issued to the applicant to sign and return. Note that each contract includes standard provisions for U.S. Government funded agreements. A sample contract can be viewed here: {% file src="/files/g63LdHYVYnLl9euf7m26" %} **Project Oversight** Because payment is dispersed at monthly intervals upon completion of stated contractual goals, successful applicants can expect regular contact with both their host organization and their OTF Program Manager. Monitoring consists of monthly reports and phone, email, or in-person discussions and consultations as needed. The monthly reports are brief monthly updates about their work to OTF and their host organization. The adviser or responsible person at the host organization, in turn, provides a “traffic light” report to OTF evaluating the researcher’s progress. This report, detailed below, is the basis upon which stipend payments are approved and released. A “green light” from the host organization signals that the researcher is on track and funds can be released. A “yellow light” from the host organization signals that while funds may be released, there are some concerns that need to be flagged to OTF. A “red light” from the host organization signals that progress has been interrupted and an intervention is required. The host organization recommends “stop payment” and OTF, the host organization, and the researcher discuss possible remedial steps to either get back on track or terminate the project. **Questions?** Have a question that isn't answered here or on the [Information Controls Research Program](https://www.opentech.fund/research-2/icrp/) page? Feel free to contact us: [hello@opentec.fund](mailto:hello@opentech.fund).