What it does
Type Foundry Directory is a free index of independent foundries, with filters for scripts, location, variable fonts, trials and licensing models. It helps designers find candidates by practical requirements and follow links to the originating foundry.
Type Foundry Directory can turn practical requirements into a foundry shortlist. Filter for a script, full-character trials, self-hosted webfonts or the measure used to price a licence. Other fields cover student discounts, logo use and whether the client's licence also covers the designer. Grid view emphasizes previews; List view puts the detailed fields side by side, with an optional thumbnail. Alphabetical and Shuffle sorting offer different ways into the selection.
The Methodology page explains what the results mean. A language or script tag only requires one typeface from a foundry to support it, so it does not guarantee that every family does. Country labels can include a designer's origins as well as their current base. Several fields are still incomplete, including designer coverage and some platform links. Use the index to find a relevant foundry, then confirm the selected family's terms there.
Strengths
- Combines script, trial, platform and licensing discovery filters.
- Links directly to originating foundries.
Watch out for
- Some fields are explicitly incomplete or still being populated.
- Directory license summaries need confirmation at the foundry.
Best for
- Building a foundry shortlist around language and deployment needs.
- Designers looking beyond familiar retail catalogs.
Sources
- Type Foundry Directory (Oct 27, 2026)
- Methodology | Type Foundry Directory (Oct 27, 2026)