Automattic Open Horizons Scholarship
An Automattic initiative to support inclusive participation in WordPress events and beyond.
The Automattic Open Horizons Scholarship aims to increase equitable access to WordPress events by providing financial support to contributors from underrepresented, underserved, or economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
Funded by Automattic, this program enables more contributors to connect, collaborate, and grow within the WordPress ecosystem, regardless of geography or financial constraints.
Event Eligibility Requirements
The selected event must be a flagship WordCamp (WordCamp Europe, Asia, or US).
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be active contributors to the WordPress open source project
- Show demonstrated impact or leadership within the community
- Have clear goals for continued contribution
- Hold a confirmed role at the event (organizer, speaker, facilitator, volunteer, etc.)
Priority will be given to contributors from underrepresented groups and/or regions.
Scholarship Coverage
The Automattic Open Horizons Scholarship may cover:
✈️ Travel (flights, trains, buses)
🏨 Lodging/accommodation
🛂 Visa application fees
🍝 Meals and local transportation
🧑🍼 Childcare expenses
👩🦯➡️ Accessibility needs
🎫 Event registration fees
Maximum award: $3,000 USD per scholarship.
Funds must be used specifically for event-related costs.
Application Timeline
You should apply at least two months before the event start date. Notifications are typically sent within two to three weeks of application submission. Emergency cases may be considered on an individual basis.
Expectations for Scholarship Recipients
Recipients must fulfill their event role, whether as an organizer, speaker, facilitator, or volunteer. They are expected to attend the event in full and adhere to the WordPress Community Code of Conduct. After the event, recipients share a blog post or social media recap that mentions the scholarship.
Review and Fund Administration
Review
Applications will be reviewed by a selection team composed of Automattic OSPO contributors and relevant leadership. Selection criteria:
- Alignment with scholarship goals
- Level of contribution impact
- Geographic and demographic diversity
Funds
Recipients will receive the allocated scholarship amount, which includes $60 USD per day for meals and local transportation.
Coverage begins one day before the event and ends one day after the event concludes.
Automattic 