Support Inclusion in Tech (SiNC) has made a major move to extend its reach, announcing the expansion of its grant program to now include applicants from both North and South America. Created by Winstina Hughes in 2022 to ease the financial burden for underrepresented groups wishing to attend WordPress events, the grant program has grown in both its scope and impact, making it a powerful initiative for inclusivity within the WordPress ecosystem.
Launched in June 2024 to coincide with Pride Month, the SiNC grant program was initially intended to support individuals in Europe, Asia, and Africa. However, with the new expansion, it now includes North and South America, marking an important step toward global inclusion. The grants are valued at USD 240 each, and four grants are awarded in each region. The aim is to support individuals who may otherwise face financial barriers to attending WordPress events like WordCamp, where they can network, share knowledge, and contribute to the WordPress community in meaningful ways.
The program was born out of the recognition that the tech industry—especially in open-source communities like WordPress—often overlooks people from underrepresented backgrounds. “We believe that a truly inclusive WordPress community requires a global perspective,” said Winstina Hughes, founder of SiNC. “By expanding our grant program, we are ensuring that everyone, no matter where they are from, can have a chance to contribute and thrive in the WordPress ecosystem.” This sentiment encapsulates the core philosophy behind SiNC’s mission: providing support to people who are eager to contribute but lack the financial resources to attend critical events that could foster their growth.
SiNC is committed to breaking down barriers and giving all individuals the chance to fully participate in the global WordPress community. The grants are intended to offer financial assistance, covering the costs of attending events, such as travel and accommodation for WordCamps. Additionally, the program aims to encourage broader participation in the WordPress ecosystem, from organizing meetups and conferences to contributing code, translations, and more.
As part of the expansion, starting in January 2025, applicants will be able to choose whether they wish to be listed in a public directory. This directory will provide an opportunity for WordPress contributors to showcase their work, connect with others in the community, and foster new collaborations. The grant selections will be made in March 2025 using a randomized name picker, ensuring fairness and transparency in the selection process.
The program’s growing global presence is a testament to the power of community support and collaboration. It emphasizes that making WordPress events accessible to a wider range of people will only serve to strengthen the platform and ensure its continued evolution. “Inclusion is about making sure that all voices are heard, and everyone has an opportunity to participate, whether it’s through contributing code or helping to organize events,” Hughes explained.
The expansion of the SiNC grant program also signals a greater push for inclusivity across the tech industry. The growing need for diversity in open-source communities like WordPress is clear, and SiNC is at the forefront of this effort. By offering grants to individuals across multiple regions, the program is leveling the playing field and empowering marginalized voices to take part in the WordPress ecosystem.
SiNC is an excellent example of how the tech industry can build more inclusive communities and provide opportunities to those who have often been overlooked. It also serves as an inspiration to other organizations looking to foster diversity and support underrepresented groups in the technology field.
Looking ahead, SiNC plans to continue expanding its efforts and adapting to the evolving needs of the WordPress community. The broader goal is to ensure that contributors from all regions—no matter their background or financial situation—are able to attend WordCamps, participate in meetups, and contribute to the ongoing development of WordPress. With each new step, SiNC is helping to make WordPress more diverse, accessible, and open to all.
The program is a shining example of how a grassroots initiative can drive change within a global community, helping to shape the future of WordPress and open-source software. As the platform continues to grow, the work being done by SiNC will ensure that it remains an inclusive, thriving community where everyone has the chance to make a meaningful impact.
For more information on how to apply for the SiNC grants or learn about other opportunities for inclusion in WordPress events, keep an eye on the official SiNC website, where applications will be accepted starting in January 2025. This program is set to open doors for many more aspiring WordPress contributors, and it’s exciting to see the impact that it will have on the community.