Applications are now open for the Impact & Engagement Lab 2026, an initiative led by the Open Technology Fund (OTF) aimed at strengthening how internet freedom technologies communicate their impact worldwide.

The Lab supports projects developing tools that protect online privacy, counter digital censorship, and expand secure access to the global internet. Selected partners will provide editorial, communications, and design expertise that helps these technologies reach communities operating in restrictive digital environments.

The program invites organizations, companies, and independent professionals to submit proposals to become official service providers within the Lab.

About the Impact & Engagement Lab

Since its launch in 2018, the Impact & Engagement Lab has worked with internet freedom initiatives by offering specialized external support services. The goal is to help technical projects translate complex work into accessible narratives and visual outputs that build public trust and encourage adoption.

Selected partners collaborate directly with OTF-supported projects, contributing expertise that strengthens outreach, storytelling, and user engagement.

Available Service Areas

1. Editorial & Communications Services

Participants may provide support such as:

• Writing and editing reports, guides, blog articles, and presentations
• Translating technical information into accessible public narratives
• Impact storytelling using research data and metrics
• Communications strategy development and audience engagement planning

Applicants should demonstrate the ability to simplify complex technological concepts while maintaining accuracy and security awareness.

2. Graphic Design & Information Design

Service providers may contribute through:

Branding and Publication Design

• Visual identity creation
• Digital publications and user guides
• Website visuals and illustration work
• Infographic and short explainer video production

Information Design

• Data visualization and dashboards
• Infographics and interactive databases
• Visual storytelling using research or technical datasets

Experience in digital rights, media freedom, or human rights communication is considered an advantage.

Contract Details

• Contract Type: Indefinite Deliverable, Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) agreements
• Duration: One-year performance period
• Maximum Contract Ceiling: Up to USD 100,000
• Work assignments will be issued based on project needs and vendor availability
• Providers are not required to offer all listed services

Key Responsibilities

Selected partners will:

• Scope project engagements with the Lab Manager
• Deliver agreed editorial or design services
• Submit engagement reports and quarterly summaries
• Maintain strong data security and confidentiality practices

Application Requirements

Proposals should include:

• Organizational or individual profile and expertise overview
• Selected service categories and hourly rates
• Evidence of previous relevant work
• Security and confidentiality procedures
• Expected service capacity
• Language competencies
• CVs or biographies of key personnel
• Two letters of support from partner organizations

Editorial applicants must also complete an editing assessment.

Important Dates

• RFP Announcement: April 13, 2026
• Questions Deadline: April 27, 2026
• Application Deadline: May 15, 2026
• Expected Project Start: August 3, 2026

Scroll down for more details and click on the official link to apply.