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FOSSGIS e.V.

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“FOSSGIS what?” I heard someone ask once. FOSSGIS e.V. may sound like a complicated term. It is actually a non-profit organization playing a vital role in the world of free and open-source software. Let’s explore its story and impact.

FOSSGIS e.V. stands for Free and Open Source Software for Geographical Information Systems. It is more than just a name. It represents a community, a conference and a commitment to open geodata. This German association champions the use of freely accessible software and data in the geospatial field.

Since its founding, FOSSGIS e.V. has been the German local chapter of the Open Source Geospatial Foundation. It also informally represented OpenStreetMap in Germany for years. In 2018, it was officially accepted as the German local chapter of the OSM Foundation. Many members of the German OpenStreetMap community are also members of FOSSGIS e.V..

FOSSGIS e.V. is involved in various activities. It owns the domain openstreetmap.de and manages it with the German OSM community. It runs essential OSM services like the Overpass API and tile servers. These services are integrated into the main OSM website. FOSSGIS e.V. provides microgrants for server costs and small events. It also organizes hack weekends, usually in Essen. The highlight is the annual FOSSGIS conference. FOSSGIS e.V. acts as a representative for collecting donations and sponsorships.

The organization also runs a server called Toolserver for small OSM-related projects. FOSSGIS e.V. offers German language mailing lists and a FOSSGIS-Wiki for the OSM community.

The FOSSGIS conference is a key event. It focuses on open-source GIS software and open geodata. OpenStreetMap has been a participant since 2010. The conference takes place annually in March in different cities. Past locations include Hamburg, Berlin, Dresden and Freiburg im Breisgau. The FOSSGIS conference provides a platform for networking and knowledge sharing.

FOSSGIS e.V.’s work extends to public relations. It focuses on showcasing free GIS projects. This includes organizing its own trade fair and participating in other conferences. FOSSGIS e.V. provides information materials and equipment for project presentations.

Community building is another core aspect. FOSSGIS e.V. offers a platform for various projects to connect and exchange ideas. This includes local meetups, working groups and the provision of shared IT services.

Numerous free projects contribute to the development of the geospatial web. They are represented within FOSSGIS e.V.. These projects include OpenStreetMap and OSGeo. FOSSGIS e.V. supports the German-speaking OpenStreetMap community.

FOSSGIS e.V. offers financial support to free GIS projects. This is done through grants and the distribution of donations.
FOSSGIS e.V. plays a crucial role in promoting free and open-source software. It fosters collaboration within the geospatial community. Its activities and conferences drive innovation and knowledge sharing. The commitment of FOSSGIS e.V. ensures a vibrant and accessible geospatial future.

The story of FOSSGIS e.V. in Berlin is just one of many fascinating insights you can discover with Explory. To experience the city beyond its surface, you need more than just a map – you need a smart guide that reveals the background, the culture, and the character of each place. With Explory’s city guide, you can dive deeper into Berlin and transform your visit into a unique city tour filled with stories that bring history and everyday life to light. Explory connects you with Berlin in a new way. Our guide doesn’t just show you where to go – it enriches your journey with context and atmosphere. Through carefully designed routes and storytelling, you’ll uncover hidden gems and unexpected highlights that even locals might miss. The audio guide makes the city come alive, allowing you to listen while you walk and explore at your own pace. Our city guide is ideal for travelers who want more than sightseeing. Whether your interest is culture, architecture, or local traditions, Explory enables authentic exploration. Each city tour is flexible and intuitive, helping you experience Berlin with freedom while still being guided by expert knowledge. By combining narrative, navigation, and discovery, Explory ensures your trip becomes an adventure filled with hidden gems and lasting impressions. Take the next step and download the Explory App today. Inside, you’ll find over 300 cities and more than 500,000 POIs and stories to explore. Whether you’re searching for a reliable guide, want to try an immersive audio guide, or plan a memorable city tour, Explory is your all-in-one companion. Begin your journey now and uncover the true essence of Berlin – only with Explory.

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