We’re thrilled to announce that the Open Knowledge Foundation (OKFN) has achieved NGOsource Equivalency Determination (ED) certification, formally establishing our recognition as equivalent to a US public charity. This status represents a major milestone for OKFN and opens new avenues for partnerships and support from US-based donors and foundations.
What is NGOsource Equivalency Determination (ED)?
The Equivalency Determination process, administered by NGOsource, evaluates nonprofit organisations outside the United States to confirm their operations are in accordance with the guidelines that US tax authorities require for public charitable organisations. By meeting NGOsource’s rigorous criteria, Open Knowledge demonstrates its commitment to transparency, accountability, and impact on a global scale. This designation means that foundations and individuals in the United States can now make tax-deductible grants and donations to OKFN with fewer restrictions, knowing that their contributions are directed toward a recognised, vetted nonprofit organisation.
What This Means for Our Work and Communities
As a certified organisation, OKFN can now access new grant opportunities and accept tax-deductible donations from US-based donors. This expanded support base will enable us to continue our work on a global scale, advancing open knowledge, promoting transparency, and advocating for and building accessible, digital tools that serve the public interest worldwide. With US charity recognition, OKFN is now even better positioned to partner with organisations, donors, and advocates who share our vision of a world open by design, where all knowledge is accessible to all.
Renata Avila, CEO of Open Knowledge, shared her appreciation for the recognition: “Receiving NGOsource’s Equivalency Determination isn’t just an acknowledgement of OKFN’s work; it’s a profound opportunity to expand our mission. With US charity recognition, we can continue to nurture and grow a network of leaders and communities in every region of the world. We will also continue to innovate legal, technical and accessibility tools for citizens and governments to unlock the potential of open knowledge, data and digital technologies that can be applied to their work and transform lives. This will lead to open knowledge, data and technologies that are open, participatory, accountable and sustainable for a better world and empowered communities everywhere.”
This achievement is directly in line with OKFN’s vision and strengthens its ability to advocate and implement open knowledge initiatives worldwide. You can find this and other relevant information about OKFN’s institutional functions on our Governance page.
We’re excited about the opportunities this opens up and grateful for the continued support of our community. Thank you for being part of our journey towards a fair, sustainable and open future.