Mozilla Builders Grant
Mozilla's themed grant program for early-stage open-source AI builders. Awards up to $100K per project. Currently between cohorts — watch builders.mozilla.org for the next call.
Quick answer
Mozilla Builders offers eligible startups Up to $100K + Mozilla accelerator support, with no equity required. An application is required, and it is open to startups worldwide (any stage).
Available programs
Up to $100K per project
Mozilla Builders
Themed cohort grants for AI builders working on open, trustworthy AI. The 2024 Local AI cohort wrapped in Dec 2024; the next theme has not been announced as of mid-2026.
- Up to $100K non-dilutive grant funding
- Cohort-based program
- Mozilla mentorship + technical advisors
- Demo Day to Mozilla's network
- Open-source community + distribution
Best for
Do you qualify for Mozilla Builders?
You likely qualify if
- Your project is open-source with a clear, permissive license
- Your work aligns with the Local AI theme (on-device models, privacy, RAG, agents, dev tooling)
- You can participate full-time and attend the in-person September kickoff and December demo day
You won't qualify if
- Your product is closed-source or cloud-dependent with no on-device/local AI component
- You cannot commit full-time or attend the required in-person kickoff and demo day
Common rejection reasons
- Project is off-theme (not genuinely Local AI) or lacks a credible open-source license
- Weak technical depth or no working prototype demonstrating the open-AI thesis
How to apply for Mozilla Builders
-
1
Check the current call
Mozilla Builders funds open-source / trustworthy-AI projects. Cohort themes change, and it’s currently between cohorts (as of 2026).
-
2
Prepare your proposal
Describe your project, its open-source nature, and how it fits the active theme.
-
3
Apply via Mozilla Builders
Submit during an open call at builders.mozilla.org.
-
4
Join the cohort
Selected builders receive up to $100k plus Mozilla’s accelerator support. Non-dilutive.
Stacks well with
Founders who claim Mozilla Builders commonly pair it with these to build a bigger credit stack.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Mozilla Builders give startups?
Mozilla Builders provides eligible startups with Up to $100K + Mozilla accelerator support across its programs.
Does Mozilla Builders take equity from startups?
No. Mozilla Builders's startup grant are non-dilutive — you do not give up any equity to receive them.
Who qualifies for Mozilla Builders?
Eligible startups generally must meet criteria such as: Building open-source / trustworthy AI; Cohort themes change — check current call; Currently between cohorts (as of 2026).
Is Mozilla Builders free for startups?
Applying is free. Mozilla Builders provides Up to $100K + Mozilla accelerator support with no equity required.
How do I apply for Mozilla Builders?
1) Check the current call, 2) Prepare your proposal, 3) Apply via Mozilla Builders, 4) Join the cohort. Full steps are on this page.
Related grant
Related resources
DeepSeek API in 2026: How to Get a Key, Pricing, and Setup
How to use the DeepSeek API: get an API key, make a first call, peak and off-peak pricing for deepseek-flash and deepseek-v4-pro, limits, and data terms.
Grok API in 2026: How to Get a Key, Pricing, and Free Credits
How to use the Grok API: create an xAI Console key, make a first call, grok-4.7 pricing, rate limit tiers, tool fees, and how startups get free Grok credits.
Free AI APIs in 2026: 8 Options Compared
Which AI and LLM APIs are actually free in 2026: Gemini, Groq, OpenRouter, Cloudflare and more compared on limits, card rules and data use, plus startup credits.