2026-09-01 –, Ran1
In the winter of 2024, a corporate tech-for-good program was shut down, and with it nearly all its OS projects went dark. In this lightning talk, we’ll cover key lessons of what went right—and what didn’t—to help other OS efforts avoid the same fate.
In the winter of 2024, a corporate tech-for-good program was shut down without advance warning, and with it nearly all its open source projects went dark.
Thousands of hours of strategy and development by the team, its volunteers, and its partners, were dedicated to making open data accessible, and demonstrating open data’s potential. The future seemed bright—partners were excited by the concepts, volunteers offered to contribute, and peers were attending their presentations (including at FOSS4G!).
When the tech-for-good program unexpectedly closed its doors, nearly all these OS tools suffered the same fate. While no one predicted the untimely demise, hindsight is 20/20. As one of the core team members, I’ll share insights into what went right and what didn’t so others can secure a more enduring OS legacy.
With nearly two decades of experience in social impact, Erin is passionate about cross-disciplinary collaboration powered by data and technology to drive meaningful change. She has a gift for nurturing community and forging connections that spark innovation—one she puts to work as co-chair of the Tech for Good Symposium, championing tech-based CSR programs.
Previously, Erin served as Head of Operations at Data Clinic, Two Sigma's pro bono tech-for-good team, where she built operational systems, grew the program into an established community name, and launched inclusive programming across all tech skill levels.