About NGI2009.eu

NGI2009.eu is a pivotal part of the Next Generation Internet (NGI) initiative, a visionary project initiated by the European Commission in 2016. The core objective of NGI is to foster the development of a more human-centric, open, and inclusive internet ecosystem. This initiative is deeply rooted in the fundamental European values of transparency, inclusivity, privacy, cooperation, and data protection. The NGI seeks to reshape the internet as a reliable and secure environment that places users at the forefront, ensuring they have control over their personal data and digital experiences.

The NGI initiative encompasses a broad spectrum of advanced internet technologies and methodologies. It encourages innovation in areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), interactive technologies, and privacy-enhancing tools. By doing so, NGI aims to build a digital environment where technologies are not only cutting-edge but also serve the public good by upholding ethical standards and respecting user autonomy.

One of the key features of NGI is its support for a wide range of participants, including small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), academic researchers, public sector organizations, non-profits, and individual innovators. The initiative provides various funding opportunities through open calls, which offer grants ranging from 5,000 to 50,000 euros. These grants can be scaled up based on the proven potential of the projects. The NGI initiative is unique in that it not only funds innovative projects but also provides extensive support services. For example, grantees can receive assistance with security, privacy, accessibility, open-source licensing compliance, and standardization, all aimed at improving the quality and maturity of the projects.

The projects funded by NGI are diverse and ambitious. For instance, NGI Zero Commons focuses on supporting free and open-source software, open standards, and open data projects. It aims to deliver, mature, and scale new internet commons across the technological spectrum. Another notable project is NGI Taler, which is dedicated to developing privacy-preserving digital payment systems. This project builds on the GNU Taler system, which allows for secure and anonymous transactions, thereby ensuring that users' financial privacy is protected.

Moreover, NGI promotes transatlantic collaboration through initiatives like NGI Sargasso. This program seeks to strengthen cooperation between innovators in the EU, USA, and Canada, providing opportunities for cross-continental partnerships. Through NGI Sargasso, participants can access up to 100,000 euros in equity-free funding, along with mentoring, coaching, and match-making services. This initiative aims to foster a collaborative ecosystem where innovators can turn their groundbreaking ideas into tangible, impactful technologies.

The NGI initiative is part of the broader Horizon 2020 and Horizon Europe frameworks, which are the EU's primary funding programs for research and innovation. These frameworks emphasize the importance of creating a digital future that is equitable, sustainable, and beneficial for all members of society. The overarching goal of NGI is not just to advance technology but to ensure that these advancements contribute positively to societal progress, supporting a digital economy that is both sustainable and fair.

In summary, NGI2009.eu serves as a gateway to the NGI initiative's vast array of opportunities and resources. It embodies the commitment of the European Union to foster a next-generation internet that prioritizes user rights, innovation, and ethical standards. By supporting a diverse range of projects and stakeholders, NGI is paving the way for a digital future that is inclusive, trustworthy, and user-centric.