Principles - Digital Infrastructure Fund (PUBLIC) - Google Docs

"Layers of open source code underlie the technology that permeates every aspect of life, from hospitals and banking to scientific research and social media. Along with the policies and standards that guide its development, this digital infrastructure is freely shared, developed in public view, and open to participation by all. But much of this infrastructure is under-maintained, and existing modes of support often favor specific corporate and government interests over the broad needs of the public. Our foundations are committed to the creation of an equitable, sustainable and secure digital infrastructure that is solidly grounded in the public interest.   The foundations behind this fund have a variety of strategies and funding priorities. But all of us recognize our missions cannot be achieved without a sound infrastructure that is developed squarely in the public interest. This partnership and fund is guided by the following principles which support our shared interests:   Open Source Digital infrastructure is a distinct area of focus that also sits in intersection with a number of other critical technology ecosystems like cybersecurity, data, and the internet More research, drawing on diverse disciplinary and methodological traditions, is needed  to better understand the development and maintenance of open source digital infrastructure Research can be more effectively moved to practice via pragmatic interventions like frameworks, prototypes, and policies, as well strategic communications and related initiatives. Corporate and government actors have an important role to play in the sustainability of open source digital infrastructure, but must be complemented by strong civil society and academic institutions who can advocate for the public interest Since the creation of infrastructure that works for everyone requires broad participation from a diverse range of communities, identities, cultures and geographies, diversity must be centered in the communities that build, maintain, and access open source and digital infrastructure. Develop work at the intersections of open source and digital infrastructure with other critical social movements focused on democracy, rights, and justice...."