Abstract
The technology infrastructure that powers our digital society is increasingly controlled by a handful of corporations whose interests often conflict with public good. From data repositories to cloud services, critical digital infrastructure faces threats from profit maximization, political interference, and funding instability. This workshop explores an alternative: cooperatively-governed technology utilities that operate as public infrastructure rather than assets entirely controlled by profit-seeking investors or governments. Drawing from the proven model of utility cooperatives – which have successfully delivered electricity, water, and telecommunications to communities for decades – we examine how cooperative ownership models can create resilient, sustainable technology infrastructure at global scale. Participants will explore the technical, legal, and governance frameworks needed to build utilities that prioritize community needs over shareholder returns. The workshop addresses practical questions: How do we design technology platforms that resist corporate or political capture? What governance structures ensure community control while maintaining technical excellence? How can we create sustainable funding models that don’t depend on venture capital or government grants? We examine case studies from data infrastructure, open source communities, and public utilities to identify patterns that work. This session is designed for technologists, policy makers, and community organizers who want to build technology that serves public interest rather than private profit. We will leave with concrete frameworks for designing cooperative technology utilities and strategies for implementing them in your own communities.
Details
Presentation Type
Theme
KEYWORDS
Cooperative Governance, Technology Utilities, Data Governance, Supranational Structures, Platform Cooperatives
