USP-IOSN Microgrant Programme for Pacific Island Countries

The grants (20 altogether) will be provided specifically for the development of software applications that will be released as Free/Open Source Software (FOSS). The software application can be an enhancement of an existing application or a new application. Software applications that run only on a proprietary platform will not be accepted.

The selection criteria include:

• Originality and innovation
• Usefulness of the software application to identifiable user group(s)

Preference will be given to projects that:

• can be used in development-related areas
• meet local needs
• enhance an existing application that has been released as FOSS

The proposal should have a clear plan with main milestones indicated.

The USP-IOSN Microgrant Programme is open to all individuals and teams from any Pacific Island countries. Special preference will be given to students in the award of the microgrants.

The funding available for each microgrant is USD900 (approximately FJD1,809) per project and for a duration of not exceeding 6 months. Extension of time may be considered if justified.

Eight projects have been supported thus far, namely:

1. A Point of Sale System suitable for use in a retail environment in the Pacific Islands
2. TikiMaps inside TikiWiki.org Content Management System
3. An adaptive mass conservative streamline tracking software for two-dimensional flows
4. Fijian Spell Checker for OpenOffice.org
5. An on-line examination system for Rishikul Sanatan College
6. A NetPay micro-payment system
7. A FOSS Distribution system hosting software packages of sufficient quality, relevant to USP academic staff and students
8. A wizard style client for generating reports