OpenPrivate program

IBM Impact Accelerator (formerly IBM Sustainability Accelerator)

IBMNo deadline listed

Summary

Nonprofits, government agencies and academic institutions can answer IBM's yearly public RFP; about five are chosen for a two-year pro bono engagement with IBM AI/cloud tech and expert mentorship. 2026's window (education and workforce) closed March 25, 2026. In-kind, not cash.

About this grant

The IBM Impact Accelerator selects a cohort of about five nonprofit, government or academic organizations each year through a public RFP and gives them a two-year engagement with IBM technology and expertise. Selected organizations get access to platforms such as IBM watsonx, Granite AI models, IBM Cloud and IBM Quantum, plus technical mentorship from IBM Consulting and IBM Research. The 2026 cohort focused on AI for education and workforce development; that RFP closed March 25, 2026.

Who can apply

  • Nonprofits
  • State and local governments
  • Colleges and universities

Our reading of the listing: for-profit businesses are not eligible for this one.

Nonprofit organizations and government entities, including academic institutions, in any region

Proposal must fit the year's topic (2026: AI-driven solutions for education and workforce development)

Selected organizations must sign an IBM grant agreement governing access to IBM technology, services and resources

Topics and uses of funds

Topics

  • In kind
  • Technology
  • Nonprofit capacity
  • Education

Money can be used for

  • Technical assistance

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