HOW WE FUND – AND WHY

Digital technology can create value for all of us. However, in Switzerland, the development of public-interest projects lacks funding due to missing business models and limited state support.

Supposed solutions are often developed in silos (and following a waterfall model), without involving the people affected and with a fear of making mistakes. Others believe that the next hype technology or Elon Musk will solve all our problems—often without even understanding the technology.

This is where the Prototype Fund comes in. We provide a structured space for experimentation, enabling human-centered, open, and community-focused innovation in Switzerland. We support you in solving societal challenges with open-source projects, thus strengthening the common good.

As an independent developer or a team of tech-savvy, creative, and committed collaborators, you can receive up to CHF 100,000 from us to develop your Public Interest Tech idea into a prototype within six months.

With this funding, you can create a prototype of your open-source solution – whether software, hardware, or other approaches. In addition to financial support, we coach, advise, and connect you with the tech community and beyond.

In 2025, we will fund at least three projects with a focus on Sustainable Digitalization and Digital Sufficiency. We are looking for ideas that help reduce the absolute level of resource and energy consumption or emissions in Switzerland through or with digital technology. Additional focus topics for future rounds will be announced in due course. To stay updated, subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on Mastodon or LinkedIn.

Want to learn more? You can find all the details about the program schedule, selection criteria, our jury, the Prototype Fund team and our FAQ online. If you still have questions, feel free to contact us via email: .