European Commission launches Open Internet Stack initiative
What happened
The European Commission launched an initiative for a next generation internet and an open internet stack on October 30, 2026. This effort follows the Next Generation Internet, which began a decade ago with the goal of increasing digital sovereignty. Under the previous Next Generation Internet Zero programs, over 1,500 grants were awarded, supporting the development of open-source software and open standards.
From apc.org
Why it matters
The initiative supports projects related to free software, open data, and open hardware. The previous Next Generation Internet Zero programs provided substantial funding and support for digital commons projects. This shift indicates a change in how the European Commission structures funding for digital infrastructure and open-source development.
From apc.org
Who's involved
- European CommissionInitiating the new Open Internet Stack initiative.
- Next GenerationThe overarching international organization whose programs are transitioning.
- ApcA member of the Next Generation consortium.
Who could feel it
Possible knock-on effectsThese are possibilities Brind reasoned out, not predictions, and not advice. Most are not stated in any report.
- ApcSpeculative
Apc might see changes in the funding structure and project focus for its consortium work due to the transition from NGI Zero.
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The entities involved
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European Commission
executive branch of the European Union
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Next Generation
international organization
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