The Open Source Initiative (OSI) has released its strategic roadmap for 2025, outlining critical initiatives designed to reinforce its role as a central authority in the Open Source ecosystem. We presented this plan to OSI’s Affiliates a few weeks ago and decided to share it more broadly. This plan addresses the evolving challenges facing Open Source software, particularly in the context of emerging technologies and regulatory landscapes. Key priorities include strengthening collaborative relationships with legal experts, policymakers, and maintainers, as well as addressing the complexities of the Open Source Definition in the age of artificial intelligence. The roadmap also emphasizes operational improvements and continued advocacy for Open Source principles. In an era where software infrastructure is increasingly recognized as critical, the OSI’s strategic direction underscores its commitment to ensuring the stability and integrity of the Open Source model.
“We’ve got your back”: Key initiatives for a stronger ecosystem
Reconnecting and reinforcing: Your hub for Open Source expertise
In an increasingly complex digital world, having access to reliable Open Source expertise is crucial. That’s why we’re redoubling our efforts to reconnect with legal and licensing experts, policymakers, and Open Source maintainers. We started in 2024 with the Practical Open Source series, the support to funding initiatives as the Open Source Pledge and the Secure Open Source Fund. We’ve started 2025 by sponsoring the Open Source Founders Summit and we’re adding more initiatives to supporting maintainers and founders. We want to solidify the OSI as your go-to resource for trusted guidance in the ecosystem.
Navigating the future of AI: Ensuring Open Source principles prevail
We recognize the importance of ensuring that Open Source principles remain relevant in a technology landscape affected by artificial intelligence. We’ve heard the concerns raised by different stakeholders around the Open Source AI Definition v1.0. Our 2025 roadmap includes a proactive approach to monitoring and updating the AI space. We started noticing the adoption of the Definition by AI practitioners and we want to continue analyzing how the different AI communities act. By the end of 2025, we’ll provide clear, actionable recommendations for the OSI board to develop an updated version of the Open Source AI Definition. You can rest assured that we are working diligently to keep the Open Source AI Definition relevant.
Advocating for Open Source: Protecting critical infrastructure.
As software becomes increasingly critical infrastructure, policy advocacy is more important than ever. We started 2025 by hiring a senior policy manager in the US, expanding our policy team to four people. In 2025 we will continue engaging with policymakers, participating in industry forums, and providing educational resources to ensure that Open Source software is recognized and protected. By representing the interests of the whole Open Source ecosystem in these crucial discussions, we’re safeguarding the future of Open Source in an increasingly regulated environment.
Strengthening our foundation: Investing in operational excellence
To better serve the Open Source communities, we’re committed to enhancing our operational efficiency. This involves paying off our internal operational debt, including upgrading our donor management system, reviewing our internal and community tools, and investing in staff training. These improvements will allow us to respond more quickly and effectively to community needs. We’re also committed to continuing the effort started last year with Collabora to improve how we handle license reviews.
Your Impact: How your contributions make a difference
The generous contributions of sponsors and patrons are the driving force behind these initiatives. Every dollar you donate directly supports our efforts to strengthen the OSI and protect the Open Source ecosystem. For example, your funding enables us to host workshops that bring together legal experts and maintainers, and it supports the ongoing analysis of AI trends that informs our work on the Open Source AI Definition. Your support is not just a donation; it’s an investment in a stronger, more resilient Open Source future.
Source: opensource.org