>Our mission is to ensure the Internet is a global public resource, open and accessible to all. An Internet that truly puts people first, where individuals can shape their own experience and are empowered, safe and independent.
> We’re awarding $225,000 to technologists and media makers who help the public understand how threats to a healthy internet affect their everyday lives.
> In a world where biased algorithms, skewed data sets, and broken recommendation engines can radicalize YouTube users, promote racism, and spread fake news, it’s more important than ever to support artwork and advocacy work that educates and engages internet users.
I guess that's somewhat related to their mission. Although they seem to be taking on more of an activism / PR role with this project.
My guess is that it's largely people within Mozilla responding to the popular outrage against Russian 'bots', fake news, and the alt-right.
How do they think they'll accomplish that, short of taking over the world's governments?
Hipsters gonna hips.
It looks like they've got too much money too, despite being dependent on Google's handouts for survival.
The Foundation focuses on advocacy and movement building around internet related topics (i.e. Privacy & Security, Digital Inclusion), while the Corporation focuses mainly on Firefox, Research projects (Rust, WASM, WebVR), standards work, and other "product" related things.
(source: I'm a Mozilla Foundation staff member)
I understand that it may be useful but this is far outside of what I would expect Mozilla to spend its funds on.