The Province of South Holland is proud to sponsor the FOSS4GE 2024, an event that embodies the principles of open-source innovation, collaboration, and standardization. As a progressive and dynamic region, we recognize the immense value that open-source geospatial technologies bring to our communities, businesses, and governments. This event provides a unique platform to explore these technologies and their transformative potential.

About the Province of South Holland

The Province of South Holland is dedicated to fostering regional development, sustainability, and innovation. Our mission is to create a thriving, resilient region that leverages cutting-edge technologies to solve societal challenges. We work closely with municipalities, businesses, research institutions, and residents to achieve our goals, ensuring that our policies and initiatives reflect the needs and aspirations of our diverse communities.

Importance of Open Source

Open-source software fosters an environment of transparency, collaboration, and continuous improvement. It breaks down barriers, enabling a diverse community of developers, researchers, and users to contribute to and benefit from collective knowledge. By supporting open-source initiatives, we ensure that cutting-edge geospatial technologies are accessible to all, driving innovation and progress. The Province of South Holland values inclusivity and believes that open-source development is crucial for democratizing technology and empowering individuals and organizations.

Alignment with FOSS4G Values

The principles of FOSS4G closely align with the values of the Province of South Holland. We are committed to:

• Innovation: By promoting open-source technologies, we encourage creative solutions to complex problems, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.
• Collaboration: We believe in the power of collaboration across sectors and borders. By working together, we can achieve more than any single entity could alone. FOSS4G provides a platform for this essential exchange of ideas and expertise.
• Transparency: Open-source software development promotes transparency and trust, core values that underpin our governance and community engagement practices.
• Sustainability: By supporting sustainable technologies and practices, we aim to create a resilient future. FOSS4G’s focus on geospatial technologies aligns with our efforts to address environmental challenges and promote sustainable development.

Standardization and Interoperability

Standardization is crucial in today’s interconnected world. It ensures that different systems and technologies can work together seamlessly, enabling the efficient exchange of data and ideas. At FOSS4GE 2024, we emphasize the importance of open standards in geospatial technology. By adhering to these standards, we promote interoperability, reduce redundancy, and enhance the overall usability of geospatial data. The Province of South Holland is committed to supporting standards that facilitate collaboration and innovation across various sectors.