NTEN Opens 2026 Pizzigati Prize for Open Source Impact Software

Named in memory of Antonio “Tony” Pizzigati, an early advocate of open source computing, the prize honors developers who demonstrate that technology can serve the public good through collaborative, non-commercial innovation. The prize supports software that is openly licensed, readily available, and actively used by nonprofits to advance their missions.

To be eligible, applicants must have developed a project that is fully open source according to the standards of the Open Source Initiative. The software must have demonstrated meaningful impact within at least one nonprofit organization and show potential value for broader adoption across the sector. Submissions are open to individuals, teams, and organizations worldwide whose tools promote equitable access and social progress.

A distinctive feature of the application process is the requirement for community validation. Each applicant must include contact details for two to five individuals familiar with the project who can provide testimonials on its development or impact. These may include users, contributors, or members of the communities served. Feedback from these references is due by February 9, 2026, one week after the main application deadline, via the community feedback form.

The application window opened on December 3, 2025. The deadline for submission is February 2, 2026. Prize recipients will be notified on February 20, with awards presented during NTEN’s annual technology conference. Past recipients include platforms like Decidim, Energy Access Explorer, and Kobo Toolbox.

By recognizing the intersection of open source principles and nonprofit values, the Pizzigati Prize helps elevate public interest software and the developers behind it. In addition to funding, recipients gain visibility within a community of technologists and organizations committed to digital tools for collective benefit.

Those interested in applying or referring a qualifying project can visit NTEN’s official Pizzigati Prize page for more information and access to the application form.