Built as a public good
OpenCharities is governed by an independent foundation — not a startup chasing exits. Our infrastructure belongs to the public, forever.
Read our charterOur Mission
To build open, transparent infrastructure that makes every charitable euro traceable and every outcome traceable — so trust in giving is no longer optional, but built-in.
Our Vision
A world where donors, nonprofits, and companies share a single source of truth for social impact — where accountability is the default, not the exception.
Public infrastructure shouldn't have shareholders
Charity infrastructure is too important to be owned by venture capital. When profit motives control the pipes, transparency becomes a feature you pay for — not a right.
0%
of people want charity platforms to be independently governed
Edelman Trust Barometer, 2023
€3B+
in annual charity donations flow through for-profit platforms in the EU
European Fundraising Association, 2023
0%
of major charity platforms are governed as public goods
OpenCharities Research, 2024
Transparent governance by design
Every decision, every budget line, every line of code — open for inspection.
Open Source
Our entire codebase is public. Anyone can audit, contribute, or fork. No black boxes.
Community Governed
Major decisions are made collectively. Stakeholders — nonprofits, donors, and partners — have a voice.
Financially Transparent
Every euro the foundation receives and spends is publicly visible. Annual reports, real-time dashboards.
What we stand for
Four principles that guide every decision we make.
Transparency
We practice what we preach. Our finances, code, and governance are open to everyone.
Inclusivity
Infrastructure for all, not just those who can afford premium tiers. Accessibility is non-negotiable.
Accountability
We hold ourselves to the same standard we set for the sector. Independent audits, public reporting.
Innovation
We embrace new technology — blockchain, open data, AI — when it genuinely serves the mission, not the hype.
For-profit platforms vs. foundation model
The governance model determines whose interests come first.
For-profit platforms
Foundation model
For-profit platforms vs. foundation model
The governance model determines whose interests come first.
For-profit platforms
Foundation model
How the foundation operates
Three layers of accountability ensure we stay true to our mission.
Governed
An independent board and advisory council oversee strategy, finances, and mission alignment. No single entity controls the foundation.
Built
Open-source development with community input. Every feature request, bug fix, and architectural decision happens in the open.
Audited
Annual independent audits, public financial reports, and real-time transparency dashboards. We prove our own impact.
Join our mission
Whether you're a developer, nonprofit leader, or someone who believes charity deserves better infrastructure — there's a place for you.
Open source · Independently governed · Public good
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you want to know about the OpenCharities Foundation.
Public infrastructure for charitable giving should not be controlled by shareholders or profit motives. As a foundation (stichting), our charter legally prevents us from distributing profits. Every euro goes back into the platform and mission. This structure ensures that the interests of donors, nonprofits, and the public always come first.
Have a question not listed here?
Get in touchReady to take control of your impact?
Let's discuss how OpenCharities can power your giving programs with full transparency and real-time tracking.
Get in touch