Mozilla is paying people to build technology that serves the public, and Nigerians are allowed to apply. Ten fellows will be chosen for the 2027-2028 cohort, with funding of up to $125,000 each.
At current exchange rates that is a serious sum in naira, enough to work full time on one idea for a year. The first step is only a Letter of Intent, due December 17, 2026.
About the Programme
The Mozilla Foundation Fellowship backs individuals building ambitious, mainly technical projects that line up with Mozilla’s focus areas. It is open to applicants worldwide, and Nigerian applicants are included.
This is a person-based programme. You apply as an individual, not as a team, even if others help you deliver the work.
Benefits
Funding comes in two forms depending on your track. Part of it pays you, and part of it pays for the project.
- Independent Fellows: $125,000 in total ($100,000 stipend plus $25,000 project budget)
- Embedded Fellows: $100,000 in total ($75,000 stipend plus $25,000 project budget)
- A 12-month fellowship period
- Backing from a respected global technology organisation
Note that this is not an unrestricted cash grant. The money is tied to the fellowship and your project plan.
Eligibility Criteria
- You apply as an individual, not a team
- Emerging or established innovators with a clear, original idea
- A project that is ambitious and primarily technical
- Evidence that you can build, test or advance the project
- Capacity to complete a 12-month project
- A clear understanding of the problem you want to solve
- Ability to receive funding from a US-based 501(c)(3) organisation
Documents Needed to Apply
Stage one is a Letter of Intent. It should explain your idea, the technical direction and the problem it addresses. Full applications are by invitation only.
- Letter of Intent covering your idea, technical approach and the problem
- Proof of your ability to build or advance the project, such as past work or a prototype
- If shortlisted: the full application, including a project plan and budget
The full round asks for a plan and budget that reviewers will pick apart. A professionally written business plan can help you structure the numbers and milestones, so you are not guessing when the invitation arrives.
Key Details at a Glance
Programme: Mozilla Foundation Fellowship 2027-2028
Organizer: Mozilla Foundation
Eligible location: Worldwide, including Nigeria
Funding available: Up to $125,000 over 12 months (10 fellows)
Application deadline: Letter of Intent due December 17, 2026, 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time
How to Apply
Everything runs through Mozilla’s official fellowship call page. Read the full Request for Proposals before you write a word.
- Read the full Request for Proposals and the FAQs.
- Choose your track and focus area.
- Submit your Letter of Intent on the application page before December 17, 2026.
- If shortlisted, complete the full application. Invitations go out February 16, 2027, and full applications are due March 12, 2027.
Final notifications are expected by April 30, 2027, and the fellowship starts June 1, 2027. Draft your letter early and have someone outside your field read it.
Final Thoughts
Ten places for the whole world means competition will be stiff. Still, a sharp idea with proof that you can build it travels well, and Nigerian developers have a growing record on global programmes like this.
Looking for more funding calls? Check our list of latest opportunities for the month and apply to several, not just one.