# International Center for Free and Open Source Software

> organization in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India

**Wikidata**: [Q5969548](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q5969548)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ICFOSS)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/international-center-for-free-and-open-source-software

## Summary
The International Center for Free and Open Source Software (ICFOSS) is a government-owned organization based in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India, established to promote free and open source software. Founded in 2009, it operates from the Sports Hub in Karyavattom with a budget of 5.5 crore rupees and approximately 100 employees.

## Key Facts
- Founded on August 28, 2009, in Freedom First, Thiruvananthapuram
- Government of Kerala-owned organization with a 5.5 crore rupee budget
- Located at Swatantra, South Pavilion, Sports Hub, Karyavattom, Trivandrum - 695 581 Kerala, India
- Employs approximately 100 people as of 2010
- Notable for launching the LoRaWAN network for IoT and developing Malayalam spell check dictionaries
- Hosts the Swatantra conference series and developed assistive technology like a mouse for people with motor disabilities
- Coordinates at latitude 8.570547549026678, longitude 76.88439723823188
- Has three sitelinks and is described in English, Malayalam, and Commons languages

## FAQs
### Q: What is the main purpose of ICFOSS?
A: ICFOSS promotes free and open source software in Kerala and India through research, development, and advocacy. It develops open source tools, hosts conferences, and creates assistive technologies while supporting the broader FOSS community.

### Q: Where is ICFOSS located and how can I contact them?
A: ICFOSS is located at Swatantra, South Pavilion, Sports Hub, Karyavattom, Trivandrum - 695 581 Kerala, India. You can contact them at +91-471-270-0013 or through their website at https://icfoss.in.

### Q: What are some notable projects developed by ICFOSS?
A: ICFOSS has developed the Malayalam spell check dictionary, launched a LoRaWAN network for IoT applications, and created assistive technology including a specialized mouse for people with motor disabilities. They also organize the Swatantra conference series.

## Why It Matters
ICFOSS plays a crucial role in advancing digital freedom and accessibility in India by promoting free and open source software as an alternative to proprietary systems. As a government-backed initiative, it helps democratize technology access, particularly in Kerala, by developing tools in local languages like Malayalam and creating assistive technologies for people with disabilities. The organization's work in IoT through LoRaWAN deployment and its conference series helps build a sustainable FOSS ecosystem that empowers developers, researchers, and end-users. By focusing on both technical development and community building, ICFOSS addresses the digital divide and supports India's technological sovereignty through open standards and collaborative innovation.

## Notable For
- Government of Kerala's flagship initiative for promoting free and open source software
- Development of Malayalam language tools including spell check dictionaries and e-governance handbooks
- Launch of LoRaWAN network for IoT applications in Kerala
- Creation of assistive technologies such as specialized mouse for people with motor disabilities
- Organization of the Swatantra conference series, bringing together FOSS advocates and developers

## Body
### Foundation and Mission
ICFOSS was established on August 28, 2009, through government initiative to promote free and open source software adoption across Kerala and India. The organization operates under the ownership of the Government of Kerala with a mission to advance digital freedom through open technologies.

### Infrastructure and Operations
The center operates from the Sports Hub complex in Karyavattom, Thiruvananthapuram, with its headquarters at Swatantra, South Pavilion. The facility houses approximately 100 employees and maintains a budget of 5.5 crore rupees for its operations and projects.

### Technical Contributions
ICFOSS has made significant contributions to the FOSS ecosystem through multiple initiatives. The organization developed Malayalam spell check dictionaries and e-governance handbooks, making digital tools accessible in local languages. They launched a LoRaWAN network for IoT applications, demonstrating commitment to emerging technologies. The center also created assistive technology, including a specialized mouse for people with motor disabilities.

### Community Engagement
Through the Swatantra conference series, ICFOSS provides a platform for FOSS advocates, developers, and researchers to collaborate and share knowledge. The organization maintains an active online presence through its website and social media channels, engaging with the broader open source community.

### Notable Personnel
Rahul De is identified as a significant person associated with ICFOSS, though specific roles are not detailed in the available information. The organization continues to evolve its contributions to the FOSS movement in India.

## References

1. [Source](https://icfoss.in/contact-us)
2. Quora