Investing in digital infrastructure: how the Sovereign Tech Fund promotes civic tech and digital sovereignty

Longer description:

In today’s rapidly changing digital environment, the concept of digital sovereignty — defined as the self-determined use of technologies by individuals, industries, and governments  — is increasingly important. 

The Sovereign Tech Fund is a new public organisation backed by the German government, which invests in open-source infrastructure in the public interest.

Case studies and empirical data showcase how open-source software, including essential libraries and standards, significantly contributes to civic technology. Open digital infrastructure has empowered successful civic tech projects, highlighting the vital role these technologies play in creating a more participative, transparent, and responsive society.

But there are also challenges faced in scaling these impacts, including the sustainability of volunteer-driven projects and the need for greater contributions to the open-source ecosystem. Gain insights into how fostering an environment of co-creation, openness, and interoperability within the digital realm can pave the way for achieving digital sovereignty and, consequently, a more democratic and environmentally sustainable future.