[indymike]

So only a PhD can innovate?

[fermigier]

As stated in my previous comment, the PhD requirement is for sitting on the selection committee only.

[indymike]

Is only a PhD is capable of recognizing libre software deserving of support?

[fermigier]

Nowhere is it implied that this could be true.

[radicalbyte]

Well, they have no hope of getting tenure (that budget is needed for administration), so it's good that PhD have another option where they can avoid doing any real work* ;)

* Giving people whose talent is thinking the chance to do that is a good idea. Better than losing that talent to management.