Hello, Today is Tuesday, March 25, and we’ve recently received some expected, but disappointing news: $2.5 million USD in crucial U.S. government funding for Mozilla’s programs has been officially canceled, with another $1.05 million USD still at risk. This cancelled funding came from USAID, a U.S. federal agency currently at the epicenter of Elon Musk’s political interference.1 The truth is, at this pivotal moment in history, the fight for an open and accessible internet — free from the control of billionaires and corporate giants — is under unprecedented threat. And now, two of our most vital programs, Mozilla’s Responsible Computing Challenge and Mozilla Common Voice, are facing severe funding cuts. Despite this significant funding challenge, we want you to know that Mozilla is refusing to back down. We are already rebuilding our roadmap to ensure these critical initiatives continue, but we can’t do it alone. So far, 13,409 people have donated to defend Mozilla against these cuts. Now, following the official cancellation of critical U.S. government funding, we’re asking you to add a donation to ensure these programs continue to thrive. That is why I'm asking you directly: Can you make a €10 donation to Mozilla today? Your donation will train the next generation of technologists, ensure voice-enabled technology understands people from all backgrounds, and create an internet that puts people first. Mozilla was founded on the fundamental belief that the internet should be open and accessible to everyone. This vision was not adopted for political convenience — it reflects the core principles that guide everything we do. That’s why, despite the funding challenges ahead, we remain committed to the following programs to uphold this mission: Here’s what’s at stake: - $2.5 million USD — Mozilla’s Responsible Computing Challenge trains future technologists to embed ethics, equity, and public good into technology. Losing this funding risks tech education programs in Kenya, India, and South Africa.
- $1.05 million USD — Mozilla Common Voice is building the world’s largest open-source speech dataset so voice technology understands all languages, accents, and communities. Without funding, marginalized voices may be left behind.
- The future of the internet — The impact goes beyond Mozilla. If U.S. government interference can dismantle public-interest tech, it threatens the very principles of open, community-driven innovation.
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We know that €10 might not seem like much in the face of a $3.55 million USD funding gap. But as you read this, hundreds of Mozilla supporters worldwide are also making donations. Your donation — no matter how large or small — makes a difference. The size of the donation is less important than the donation itself. Because when all of us are contributing what we can, all of those contributions add up fast. Now, with the official confirmation that millions in U.S. government funding have been cut, we’re relying on a surge in donations. Let’s send a clear message that together we are ready to build a tech future that puts people first. If you're in a position to do so, please make an urgent contribution of €10 to Mozilla today. Your support will help fund critical programs like the Responsible Computing Challenge and Mozilla Common Voice, ensuring the internet remains open and accessible to all. The strength of our movement has always come from people like you who believe in an open internet – and it always will. Thank you for being a part of it. Michael Whitney
Director, Digital Engagement
Mozilla
More Information: 1. Politico: Rubio thanks DOGE, says US is canceling most USAID programs. 10 March 2025. 2. Read more about Mozilla’s Responsible Computing Challenge and Common Voice initiatives. | 
