Session: Drive Your Business With Open Source Sponsorship
In 2014, the Heartbleed Bug sent shockwaves across the internet and lead to news headlines like: “The Internet Is Being Protected By Two Guys Named Steve”. Although this headline is somewhat humorous, it revealed a crucial vulnerability of FOSS altogether: Oftentimes, important Open Source Software is maintained by a few engaged, but tired and overworked, underpaid individuals. Recent examples include the Log4Shell vulnerability whose consequences aren’t even fully clear yet.
There are a few ways to remedy this situation: By active participation through community engagement, high-quality contributions, becoming a maintainer, or through membership in Open Source foundations. A further option is through financial sponsorship – which goes beyond just money, but also gives the software we depend on the recognition their creators deserve. Let’s explore why sponsoring is a great way to drive FOSS forward, how it can be done in a practical way, and what our experience with Open Source sponsorship is at Mercedes-Benz.
This talk is for a general audience with interest in Open Source philosophy and community, and
- if you are interested what Open Source sponsoring is
- if you want to find out how Open Source sponsoring can help your business
- or if you are struggling with implementing Open Source sponsoring at your company.
Presenters:
This track proudly sponsored by 