256 Foundation
Nonprofit advancing open-source Bitcoin mining hardware, firmware, and education to decentralize hashpower.
Why We Recommend 256 Foundation
256 Foundation is a US 501(c)(3) public charity (EIN 99-1662333) dedicated to making Bitcoin mining free and open-source. The organization has received grants from the Human Rights Foundation's Bitcoin Development Fund and has an official partnership with Block's Proto group to support open-source Bitcoin mining initiatives.
As a nonprofit focused on grant-making and education rather than custody or financial services, 256 Foundation does not hold user funds, making traditional trust metrics like proof of reserves or insurance inapplicable. Their work centers on funding open-source projects where all hardware designs, firmware, and software are publicly auditable. Grant recipients are evaluated through an application and interview process, with grants paid in either bitcoin or fiat according to recipient preference.
Best For
256 Foundation serves developers, hardware engineers, and firmware builders working on open-source Bitcoin mining projects including hashboards, control boards, mining pool infrastructure, and related tools. It provides grants and resources to those creating non-proprietary alternatives to commercial mining equipment.
The foundation also supports educators creating content to demystify Bitcoin mining and freedom technology. Donors seeking to fund the decentralization of Bitcoin's mining infrastructure through tax-deductible contributions will find this an ideal vehicle, as will grant applicants during open application periods announced via their social channels and POD256 podcast.
Services & Features
- Open-source mining grants
- Bitaxe ecosystem support
- Hardware design funding
- Firmware development grants
- Mining education resources
- POD256 podcast
- Bitcoin & fiat donations accepted
Considerations
256 Foundation is a grant-making nonprofit, not a financial product or exchange. It does not offer trading, lending, custody, or investment services. Grant amounts are not publicly disclosed for security reasons. Grant recipients must provide taxpayer information for IRS reporting (Wyoming LLC formation suggested for privacy). Grant applications are only accepted during announced open periods and require demonstrable ability to contribute to open-source Bitcoin mining work.
