The Linux Foundation is a **non-profit organization established in 2000** to support the development, management, and scaling of Linux and a broad spectrum of open-source software and hardware projects[3][1]. Originally launched as the Open Source Development Labs to standardize and promote the Linux kernel, it merged with the Free Standards Group in 2007, evolving into a global hub for open innovation across diverse technology sectors including cloud computing, networking, blockchain, and hardware[3]. The foundation operates as a **neutral, trusted platform** where developers and companies collaborate on open projects, fostering a decentralized innovation ecosystem built on trust[2]. It provides essential infrastructure, training, certification programs, and community-building events such as the Linux Kernel Developers Summit and the Open Source Summit, helping to equip developers with skills beyond coding to include project management and security best practices[4][6]. Key achievements include hosting nearly 1,000 active open source projects, supporting over 1,800 member companies, and organizing more than 250 global events annually[4]. The foundation also facilitates major mergers, such as the 2023 integration with the Open Networking Foundation, which brought in additional funding and projects, further expanding its scope and influence[3]. Its funding primarily comes from corporate members tiered by contribution levels, amassing nearly $15 million annually as of mid-2024[3]. Currently, the Linux Foundation continues to drive innovation by enabling collaboration across software, hardware, standards, and data projects globally, including regional initiatives like Linux Foundation Europe that focus on digital sovereignty and compliance with regulations such as the EU Cyber Resilience Act[8]. It has won industry recognition, including the 2025 Not-For-Profit and Education Team of the Year award, and recently launched projects targeting cybersecurity skills and open-source content management[2]. Notable aspects of the Linux Foundation include its role as a “foundation of foundations,” its facilitation of corporate-sponsored open source development (where key maintainer