Open Knowledge Foundation
Board of Directors

Board Meeting Minutes, June 2026

A meeting of the Open Knowledge Foundation (OKFN) Board was held via video call on Wednesday 24th June 2026 from 19:00 - 20:00.

Board members who dialled in: Vanessa Barnett (VEB) (Chair), Helen Turvey (HT) (Vice Chair), Johnny West (JW), Tim Hubbard (TH), Ira Bolychevsky (IB)
Observers: Renata Avila (RA) (CEO), Cassandra Woolford (CW) (DOF)

CEO Update [RA]

Renata Avila provided updates on core strategic initiatives and active projects:

During quarter two, OKFN was engaged with the governments of Brazil and Uruguay,  focusing on data infrastructure integration via CKAN and assisting non-technical organisations in adopting AI tools (such as the Climate Academy chatbot developed with an Indian university). Both Pilots are on track and the appointed personnel are engaging well. 

Research and data collection for low-earth orbit (LEO) satellite governance (Sky Commons Observatory) and commercial brain-computer interface technologies are nearing finalisation ahead of mid-month releases. 

Discussions are underway regarding the potential revival of the Open Definition Council to provide much-needed guidance on open licensing standards for AI datasets and models, contingent upon securing proper resourcing and funding from a pool of philanthropic donors.

The recent announcement by external actors regarding an "Open Knowledge Format" has caused market confusion and inbound inquiries regarding an association with OKFN. Legal consultation with trademark experts and a formal review is being initiated to address potential brand protection and governance implications.

Renata and the Board addressed ongoing community feedback and structural challenges regarding CKAN stewardship, historical recognition, and commercial participation. Discussions emphasised the aspiration to diversify future stewardship by incorporating international organisations and well-resourced public sector entities (such as the government of Uruguay or Brazil) alongside commercial stewards. Additionally, plans were discussed to record oral histories and memoirs of early CKAN contributors to ensure accurate historical representation of the project's development.

Finance Update [CW]

The Foundation remains in a stable financial position, operating within budget and with core expenditures tightly controlled. The recent audit was successfully completed and accounts were filed at Companies House in record time, reflecting satisfaction with the new auditors. Discussions highlighted ongoing long-term agreements with United Nations agencies, specifically the World Food Programme (WFP), which offers reliable, long-term collaboration opportunities with potential for global scaling. While current contract rates provide manageable baselines, leadership continues to emphasise the need for additional projects to improve overall sustainability.

Action Points

  • Cassandra and Renata to follow up on governance changes and board renewal processes over the summer.
  • Leadership to engage legal counsel (including Andrew) regarding trademark protection and review potential steps concerning the "Open Knowledge Format" branding.
  • Tim and other board members to coordinate with communications (Lucas) for historical interviews regarding the 20th anniversary of CKAN.