Mozilla Open Source Support (MOSS)

Mozilla Open Source Support (MOSS)

Status: On indefinite hiatus - applications currently closed as of 2020 restructuring

Overview: MOSS is an awards program that recognizes, celebrates, and supports open source projects that contribute to Mozilla's work and to the health of the Internet. It broadens access, increases security, and empowers users by providing catalytic funding to open source technologists.

Geographic Scope: Global

Eligibility:

Open source projects (software, hardware, firmware, design, networking projects)

Projects must be mature with demonstrated success and momentum

Must have active community of users and contributors

Must be released under FSF free software license or OSI open source license

Individuals, NGOs, and for-profit companies may apply

Individuals and entities on SDN list or under sanctions are ineligible

Individuals with documented violation of Mozilla's Community Participation Guidelines may be ineligible

Brand new projects, unlicensed projects, and projects without built communities are not considered

What They Fund:

Open source software, hardware, firmware, design, and networking projects

Security audits for widely used open source software (SOS track)

Remedial work to fix security issues

What They Don't Fund:

Conferences and events

Non-open source projects

Brand new projects

Projects without active communities

Budget Considerations:

Historically awards range $5,000 - $150,000 USD per project (average ~$70,000)

Awards of $150,000+ historically approved mostly for return awardees

Larger awards receive more scrutiny

All projects must include statement of work

Organizations may charge up to 10% of direct costs as indirect costs (maximum)

Individual applicants should not include indirect costs

Direct costs eligible: staff salaries, contractors/consultants, materials

Indirect costs eligible: overhead, rent, utilities, general/administrative expenses

Award Tracks:
1. Track I: Foundational Technology - Supports open source projects Mozilla relies on as embedded parts of products or everyday work
2. Track II: Mission Partners - Supports open source projects that significantly advance Mozilla's mission
3. Track III: Secure Open Source Fund (SOS) - Supports security audits and remedial work

Contact: MOSS@mozilla.com

Additional Resources:

MOSS Directory on GitHub for past recipients and committee members

MOSS Evaluation Summary available

Schedule of Work sample available

For current funding opportunities, see Mozilla Technology Fund