Sequoia to support open source developers with new fellowship program

Sequoia Capital is gearing up to empower up to three open-source software developers annually through a pioneering program introduced last year.

• The Sequoia Open Source Fellowship: Launched in May, this initiative was initially accessible only through invitations, with a single recipient announced thus far. However, Sequoia is now opening up applications to developers.

• Chronic Underfunding: Open source software often grapples with inadequate financial support, a problem that tends to capture attention only when significant issues like Log4Shell arise, impacting the software supply chain.

• Investment Approach: By nurturing the open source ecosystem, Sequoia bolsters its position in the tech landscape and cultivates relationships with potential future collaborators or hires.

• Strategic Investments: Sequoia's portfolio includes companies like MongoDB and Confluent, which initially stemmed from open-source roots. Recent investments in startups like PartyKit and Temporal highlight its commitment to supporting open-source endeavors.

• Two Distinct Financial Commitments: Sequoia's approach involves providing grants to foundational projects, alongside direct equity stakes in companies built around commercialized open-source technologies.

Sequoia Capital's initiative signifies a strategic investment in the future of open-source development, aiming to address funding gaps, foster innovation, and build a stronger tech ecosystem for the benefit of all stakeholders involved.