Open source is more than just code—it is a philosophy, a movement, and a framework that touches every aspect of society. However, as open source grows, there is a risk of it becoming another siloed institution, disconnected from the very communities it seeks to serve, much like academia and corporate America. To ensure open source remains inclusive and impactful, we must actively involve local communities in the process of technological development.

This talk explores how regional OSPO (Open Source Program Office) networks can serve as catalysts for inclusive innovation by connecting local communities, tech meetups, academic institutions, and civic organizations. These networks create a framework to:
- Study problems affecting local communities.
- Develop open technologies tailored to address these issues.
- Implement solutions through open governance, ensuring transparency, equity, and sustainability.

By dedicating resources to both regional collaboration and local focus, regional OSPO networks strike a balance that drives large-scale innovation while staying grounded in the needs of diverse communities.

Key themes include:
- Open Source as a Societal Institution: Why open source must go beyond code and actively integrate with local communities to avoid becoming siloed.
- Regional Networks for Connection: How regional OSPO networks foster collaboration among civic institutions, academia, local communities, and the tech industry.
- Inclusive Technology Development: How to engage local voices to study problems, co-develop solutions, and ensure equitable implementation.
- The 20/80 Framework: A practical model for balancing local focus with regional collaboration to create resilient and impactful networks.

This session offers a vision for a new kind of open source ecosystem—one that connects society’s diverse sectors, tackles real-world problems, and builds a foundation for sustainable, community-driven innovation. Whether you’re a community leader, OSPO practitioner, or open source advocate, join us to explore how we can bridge the gap between open source ideals and societal impact.

Key Takeaways:
- The importance of integrating local communities into open source development processes.
- How regional OSPO networks can address local challenges through collaborative innovation.
- Strategies for fostering open governance and inclusive technology development.

This talk is a call to action: let’s ensure open source remains a force for collective good, bringing all of society into the fold. Together, we can prevent open source from becoming another siloed institution and instead position it as a true bridge to a better future.