Purpose
The Internet and other electronic tools make possible the easy, inexpensive, and rapid exchange and dissemination of information. They also make it easier for use of information to be monitored and controlled. While new technologies promise greater access to information, the potential exists that the amount and quality of information available for free and uncontrolled use will actually decrease. Through this time-limited initiative, the Foundation seeks to contribute to an intellectual property regime in the digital era that balances the legitimate needs of both creators and the public. Grants will support policy analysis, scholarly research, and participation in significant international forums where intellectual property policy is being made. The Foundation will also support work designed to protect - over the long term - the public domain of information and ideas.

Questions about this grantmaking area can be e-mailed to intellectual property at the MacArthur Foundation.

Funding
The General Program is no longer accepting proposals for the initiative on intellectual property and the long-term protection of the public domain. The time-limited initiative begun in 2002 is in its final year and will only be making renewal grants to conclude currently funded projects.