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PauseAI MicroGrants

We have a huge list of projects that our community is working on. There’s so much to do. And sometimes we need funds to be more effective.

But getting funding can be a hassle — especially if you’ve never applied for a grant.

This is where PauseAI MicroGrants come in handy! Small grants (typically under €2,000) to fund a specific project that advances our mission of mitigating catastrophic risks from AI.

Here are some examples of projects we might fund:

  • Organize an event (venue rental, food & drinks, materials)
  • Produce or promote videos about AI risks or the case for pausing
  • Develop a policy draft, e.g. formalizing our proposal
  • Conduct research, e.g. a survey or message-testing study
  • Write for media, e.g. an opinion piece for a national newspaper
  • Set up a new organization that aligns with our mission

Criteria and Rules

Purpose and Scope

  • MicroGrants are one-off grants from PauseAI Global’s budget to fund specific projects with defined deliverables and a clear end date.
  • They are not intended to compensate ongoing regular work for PauseAI. If you are looking for support for sustained volunteering, see our Volunteer Stipend program. If your proposal is effectively ongoing work rather than a bounded project, we may discuss a contractor arrangement instead.
  • Projects must directly relate to PauseAI Global’s mission, strategy, and activities.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Applicants must have joined PauseAI via the official Global webform and signed the volunteer agreement before applying.
  • Preference is given to volunteers with a demonstrated history of contributions to PauseAI.
  • Applicants who have previously received a microgrant cannot receive a second one if the deliverables of the first were not completed and reported.
  • Chapter applications require a signed Memorandum of Understanding.

Application Process

  1. Complete the application form below.
  2. The Organizing Director and CEO make final decisions on allocation. Someone may reach out for a call if the application needs clarification.
  3. Applicants will be informed of the decision within one month.
  4. If approved, the recipient must sign a Grant Letter before any funds are disbursed. The Grant Letter documents the grant’s purpose, amount, expected deliverables, and timeline.

Payment

  • Payment is typically made as an advance after the Grant Letter is signed.
  • In some cases, reimbursement after project completion (with receipts) may be preferred.
  • The method will be agreed in the Grant Letter.

Strategic Allocation

  • Grants are typically under €2,000.
  • Allocation decisions are made in alignment with PauseAI Global’s overall strategy and are subject to available funds and organizational priorities.
  • Funds may not be distributed evenly across regions or chapters.

Tax Responsibility

Grant recipients are solely responsible for understanding and meeting any tax obligations that may apply to the grant in their country of residence. The Grant Letter will include an acknowledgment of this responsibility. PauseAI cannot provide tax advice.

Accountability and Reporting

  • Within one month of project completion, the recipient must submit a brief completion report and any relevant receipts.
  • Failure to comply will affect eligibility for future microgrants.

Apply