Open source software (OSS) is the backbone of digital infrastructure, powering 95% of all software and serving as the foundation for innovation and discovery in our increasingly interconnected world.
Despite its ubiquity and benefits, recent security incidents like the Log4j vulnerability underscore the need for enhanced security and sustainability measures.
Modeled after the German Sovereign Tech Fund, this initiative aims to bolster the security and longevity of critical software components.
To address these challenges, the United States should establish a Digital Technology Fund, leveraging multi-stakeholder participation to provide support for essential OSS projects and communities.
By investing in OSS maintainers and fostering collaboration, the fund seeks to mitigate security risks and ensure the continued advancement of digital infrastructure.
Federal agencies, private sector entities, academia, and philanthropic organizations would contribute to the fund, which would be administered by an independent nonprofit organization.
The proposed fund would augment existing efforts, encouraging contributions from diverse stakeholders to bolster resources and organizational capacity.
Recommendations include publishing a comparative analysis of OSS security initiatives and establishing a public-private partnership focused on OSS security and sustainability.
By recognizing the critical role of OSS and supporting its pioneers, the fund aims to address pressing security and sustainability challenges while advancing digital infrastructure for the benefit of all.
Through legislative appropriation and strategic coordination, the Digital Technology Fund can catalyze innovation, workforce development, and artificial intelligence safety.