$1 Million a Year: Zerodha’s FLOSS Fund Backs Global Open-Source Software

India’s push toward open digital ecosystems is gaining momentum, with public funds now being directed toward the development of open-source large language models under the IndiaAI Mission. On the global stage, the country continues to champion Digital Public Goods (DPGs) and Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) – two pillars that are inseparable from Free and Open Source Software (FOSS).

At its core, FOSS powers the most impactful digital public systems in the world. Long before concepts like DPI and DPG entered policy conversations, open projects such as the Linux kernel, Wikipedia, and OpenStreetMap were already transforming how the world collaborates, shares knowledge, and builds technology through transparency and collective effort.

India’s technology strategy has long aligned with open-source principles. From large-scale government platforms to much of the modern startup ecosystem, FOSS forms the backbone of critical systems and services across the country.

Strengthening this global open-source movement is the FLOSS/fund, an initiative launched by Indian fintech firm Zerodha. The fund commits $1 million annually to support Free/Libre and Open Source Software projects worldwide, addressing a long-standing gap in sustainable funding for open-source maintainers.

A key innovation of the FLOSS/fund is its use of a standardized funding.json file, which allows projects to clearly communicate their financial needs without lengthy negotiations. These applications are listed in a public directory, increasing visibility and transparency for both developers and potential sponsors.

In its first funding round, the initiative has already distributed $325,000 to nine diverse projects, spanning developer tools, core infrastructure, and community-driven efforts.

Applications are currently open, offering open-source projects around the world a rare and meaningful opportunity for direct financial support. Apply