Asia Pacific Internet Development Trust

The Asia Pacific Internet Development Trust (APIDT) is a nonprofit organization established to support and fund Internet development initiatives throughout the Asia Pacific region. Its mission focuses on fostering technical skills development, capacity building, improving critical Internet infrastructure, supporting research and development, and enhancing the community’s ability to create an open, global, stable, and secure Internet.

History and Purpose

APIDT was founded as a joint initiative between the WIDE Project and the Asia-Pacific Network Information Centre (APNIC), with the goal of reinvesting proceeds from the sale of IPv4 address space into regional Internet development projects. The Trust aims to serve as a sustainable funding source to empower Internet growth and innovation across diverse economies and communities in the Asia Pacific.

The establishment of APIDT was announced in March 2020, following a decision by Professor Jun Murai of Keio University, the founder of the WIDE Project, regarding the future use of IPv4 address space from the 43/8 block. The IPv4 addresses were transferred to the Trust, and the proceeds from their sale are dedicated to supporting initiatives that improve Internet infrastructure and skills in the region.

Activities and Impact

APIDT provides funding and support in several key areas:

• Technical Skills Development and Capacity Building: Enhancing the abilities of individuals and organizations to manage and develop Internet technologies effectively.
• Infrastructure Improvement: Supporting upgrades and expansions of critical Internet infrastructure to ensure reliability and accessibility.
• Research and Development: Facilitating innovation through financial support for new technologies and approaches in Internet services.
• Community Empowerment: Strengthening the capability of the Asia Pacific Internet community to foster a collaborative, stable, and secure digital environment.

Additionally, APIDT can receive other contributions and donations to expand its funding pool, thus increasing the scope and scale of its activities.

Governance

The Trust is administered by a corporate trustee registered in Australia, established by APNIC and the WIDE Project. The trustee acts as the guardian of the Trust's assets and directs the disbursement of funds in accordance with the organization's goals and foundational deed.

Regional Significance

By focusing on the Asia Pacific region, APIDT addresses the specific challenges and opportunities of a diverse and rapidly developing area, aiming to bridge the digital divide and promote equitable Internet access. Its work aligns with global efforts to maintain an open and secure Internet while recognizing the region's unique infrastructure and capacity needs.

APIDT represents a strategic and collaborative effort to reinvest Internet resource proceeds into developmental initiatives that foster a stronger, more resilient Internet ecosystem across the Asia Pacific. Its creation underscores the commitment of regional stakeholders to sustainable Internet growth and innovation.

Note: Australia Business Number (ABN) 35932505068RR0001

[1] https://www.apidt.org [2] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/4d2f7b23-e29f-ea11-a812-000d3ad1f29c [3] https://cybilportal.org/actors/asia-pacific-internet-development-trust-apidt/ [4] https://www.aponet.global/about [5] https://blog.apnic.net/2020/03/25/announcing-the-asia-pacific-internet-development-trust-apidt/