I have been covering both the Linux Foundation and the Open Infrastructure Foundation (OpenInfra), formerly the OpenStack Foundation, since their inception. They are among the most welcoming organizations, known for fostering collaboration and creating a level playing field. 

The Open Infrastructure Foundation (OpenInfra) is joining forces with the Linux Foundation, marking a significant shift in the enterprise open source landscape. The partnership is expected to accelerate key infrastructure projects like OpenStack and Kubernetes, leveraging the Linux Foundation’s extensive network, shared resources, and governance model.

Mark Collier, COO at OpenInfra Foundation, joined me on our new show called Cloud : Evolution, and emphasized that this transition is about scaling momentum rather than altering OpenInfra’s core mission. OpenInfra will function as a top-level foundation within the Linux Foundation, similar to CNCF, PyTorch Foundation, and OpenSSF.

Collier likened the transition to moving from bare metal to an operating system for foundations, “Today, it’s as if our foundation is running on bare metal. The Linux Foundation now has a system—like an operating system for foundations. We’ve been working on recreating that same system within the Linux Foundation’s structure so it will operate in essentially the same way.”

This means OpenInfra will retain its governance model, funding structure, and community-driven approach while gaining access to shared resources, legal expertise, and collaboration opportunities with other Linux Foundation projects.

A Boost for AI and OpenStack Adoption

AI and infrastructure modernization are key drivers behind this decision. OpenInfra projects like OpenStack and Kata Containers have seen surging adoption.Collier explains that companies like Walmart, GEICO, and major European banks have significantly expanded their OpenStack deployments, driven by trends in digital sovereignty and cost-effective infrastructure. 

OpenStack’s role in AI and high-performance computing (HPC) workloads has also grown, with projects like the Dawn supercomputer in the UK and FPT Cloud in Vietnam showcasing its scalability. The Linux Foundation’s AI-focused initiatives aim to provide an opportunity for deeper integration and collaboration in this space.

Collier highlighted the growing importance of AI infrastructure and how OpenStack is playing a major role in this space. “New infrastructure is being designed specifically for AI. GPU support has been part of OpenStack for years, making it the de facto standard in HPC — and AI is simply the next evolution of that. The latest release introduced features like live migration for GPU workloads, and users like the Dawn Supercomputer in the UK are already building AI clouds on OpenStack,” he said.

By joining the Linux Foundation, OpenInfra projects will have better integration with AI frameworks like PyTorch and hardware initiatives like RISC-V, ensuring a more connected and efficient AI infrastructure.

Addressing Global Open Source Challenges

One of the biggest motivations for this move is the evolving regulatory landscape around open-source software. Governments worldwide are increasingly recognizing that open source powers the global economy, leading to new regulations and compliance challenges.

Collier explains that OpenInfra can better address policy concerns by joining the Linux Foundation, ensuring that regulations support open-source innovation rather than hinder it. Collier believes that this unified approach will strengthen open source as a global force, enabling developers and organizations to navigate complex legal landscapes.

“We can’t assume we’ll have another 15-year boom in open source like the one we just experienced. We need to actively protect this future. Every AI regulation, in some way, impacts open source itself — and it’s crucial that lawmakers understand what’s at stake,” he said.

By joining forces with the Linux Foundation, OpenInfra will have a stronger global voice in policy discussions, ensuring that open-source innovation remains free, collaborative, and globally accessible.

The Future of Open Infrastructure

This partnership marks a new era of collaboration in the open source ecosystem. By aligning with the Linux Foundation, OpenInfra strengthens its role in shaping the future of cloud computing, AI, and digital infrastructure while preserving its commitment to openness and community-driven innovation.

As AI, cloud, and open source infrastructure continue to evolve, this move ensures that OpenInfra’s projects are well-positioned to thrive—empowering developers, enterprises, and global economies for the next 15 years and beyond.

Collier stresses the importance of a positive-sum mindset, where collaboration leads to greater opportunities rather than competition. By leveraging shared resources and deepening collaboration, OpenInfra and the Linux Foundation aim to strengthen the global infrastructure ecosystem and drive long-term innovation in open source.

Guest: Mark Collier
Organizations: OpenInfra Foundation | Linux Foundation
Show: Cloud : Evolution

This summary was written by Emily Nicholls; Swapnil Bhartiya contributed to the written summary.