Above all, the work of dedicated contributors is at the center of free software’s ability to empower users. Whether they’re developers, documentation writers, community organizers, or inspiring new volunteers, everyone plays their own role in building the movement.
Together, the work of these community members contributes to the technical excellence of free software. More importantly, it makes it possible for everyday people to live a full digital life without compromising their freedom.
So, each year, the Free Software Foundation (FSF) formally expresses appreciation to these individuals and organizations. They do it through the Free Software Awards.
FSF Awards categories
The FSF gives out three awards each year at the LibrePlanet conference.
The Award for Projects of Social Benefit is presented to a project or team responsible for applying free software, or the ideas of the free software movement, to intentionally and significantly benefit society. This award stresses the use of free software in service to humanity.
The Award for the Advancement of Free Software goes to an individual who has made a great contribution to the progress and development of free software through activities that accord with the spirit of free software.
The Award for Outstanding New Free Software Contributor is presented to a newcomer to the free software movement who has gotten off to a remarkable start through their dedication and contributions to the free software community.
The deadline to submit your nominations is October 28th, 2020, at 15:00 UTC.
The 2020 FSF Awards will be presented at LibrePlanet 2021. LibrePlanet is the annual conference hosted by the Free Software Foundation. LibrePlanet provides an opportunity for community activists, domain experts, and people seeking solutions for themselves to come together in order to discuss current issues in technology and ethics. The theme for LibrePlanet 2021 is Empowering Users.
