PSF has withdrawn $1.5M proposal to US Government grant program
6 months ago
- #Python
- #Open Source
- #DEI
- PSF submitted a proposal to the NSF in January 2025 to address structural vulnerabilities in Python and PyPI.
- The proposal was recommended for funding, but PSF had concerns over restrictive terms related to DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion).
- The NSF terms required PSF to affirm they would not operate any programs advancing DEI, conflicting with PSF's core values.
- PSF consulted NSF contacts and reviewed similar cases but ultimately decided to withdraw the application to uphold their mission.
- The rejected grant would have funded tools for proactive security reviews on PyPI, benefiting the broader open-source ecosystem.
- The $1.5 million grant would have significantly supported PSF's budget, but the Board unanimously prioritized values over funding.
- PSF now seeks financial support through memberships, donations, and sponsorships due to economic challenges.