By Juliet Umeh
The Internet Society, a global nonprofit dedicated to advancing internet access, and Meta, a leading technology company, have announced a new $30 million co-funding initiative aimed at expanding reliable and affordable internet connectivity worldwide.
The announcement was made at Mobile World Congress, MWC 2025, a premier event bringing together key players in mobile technology and connectivity. Through this initiative, the Internet Society and its philanthropic arm, the Internet Society Foundation, have committed to investing $30 million by 2030. Meta is the first co-funding partner, and the Internet Society is inviting other organizations to join in creating a more connected and equitable world.
Currently, 2.6 billion people worldwide remain without internet access, limiting their opportunities for education, healthcare, economic participation, and civic engagement. This initiative leverages the Internet Society’s decades of expertise, global reach, and advocacy to drive policies that address this pressing issue.
Building on a strong partnership
Meta’s participation in the initiative follows a successful collaboration with the Internet Society since 2018. Together, they have worked on strengthening Internet Exchange Point (IXP) infrastructure, training technical communities, and enhancing internet resilience in various regions.
This new co-funding effort aims to:
Expand funding and advocacy: Support infrastructure deployment and empower communities to manage their networks.
Address market gaps: Invest in regions where commercial providers lack economic incentives to operate.
Enhance training programs: Strengthen technical skills, empower marginalized groups, and prepare the next generation of internet leaders.
Develop community-driven solutions: Build and enhance local connectivity for businesses, schools, and healthcare facilities in underserved areas.
Foster sustainable networks: Support the creation of locally owned, scalable, and resilient internet networks that drive employment, entrepreneurship, and community wealth.
Mobilize advocacy efforts: Strengthen global impact through the Internet Society’s 130 local chapters and 133,000 members worldwide.
President and CEO of the Internet Society, Sally Wentworth, emphasized the power of collaboration in closing the connectivity gap: “Over the past few years, our partnership with Meta has led to the establishment of 56 IXPs in 45 countries, providing millions with faster, more affordable, and reliable internet access. This new co-funding initiative is a powerful example of how collective action can drive meaningful change for the more than 2 billion people who remain unconnected. We hope this fund will play a crucial role in creating a more inclusive digital society.”
Director of Network Infrastructure at Meta, Aaron Russell, highlighted the company’s commitment to digital inclusion:
“Meta is proud to extend our partnership with the Internet Society, reinforcing our commitment to bridging the digital divide. Together, we aim to provide sustainable and equitable internet access to communities worldwide, fueling innovation and connectivity for all. This partnership aligns with our broader investments in infrastructure, including submarine cables, which enhance internet reliability and reduce costs.”
The Internet Society is calling on governments, businesses, and civil society organizations to join this initiative and help accelerate progress toward a fully connected world.
