# OpenCage

> German software company

**Wikidata**: [Q119725182](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q119725182)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/opencage

## Summary
OpenCage is a German software company founded on March 12, 2015, specializing in geocoding services and tools that utilize OpenStreetMap data. Headquartered in Hanover, Germany, since 2021, the company provides location-based solutions for developers and businesses, emphasizing open-source collaboration and customizable geocoding APIs.

## Key Facts
- Founded on March 12, 2015, by Marc Tobias Metten and another individual (Q127329136).
- Relocated headquarters from Münster to Hanover, Germany, in October 2021.
- Operates as a GmbH (German private limited company) since July 2019, previously registered as a UK private company (2015–2019).
- Member of the OpenStreetMap Foundation (since 2016) and FOSSGIS, with active contributions to open geospatial initiatives.
- Offers a geocoding API and related services, documented at opencagedata.com.
- Crunchbase ID: `opencage-geocoder`; EU VAT number: DE323788688.

## FAQs
### Q: What services does OpenCage provide?
A: OpenCage specializes in geocoding solutions, offering APIs and tools that convert addresses into geographic coordinates using OpenStreetMap data, catering to developers and businesses.

### Q: Where is OpenCage based?
A: The company is headquartered in Hanover, Germany (Philipsbornstraße 2, 30165), having moved from Münster in October 2021.

### Q: Is OpenCage affiliated with OpenStreetMap?
A: Yes, OpenCage is an organizational member of the OpenStreetMap Foundation (since 2016) and supports OpenStreetMap through financial contributions and advocacy.

## Why It Matters
OpenCage plays a critical role in the open-source mapping ecosystem by providing reliable geocoding services built on OpenStreetMap data. Unlike proprietary solutions, its tools promote data accessibility and collaboration, enabling developers to integrate customizable location services into applications while supporting the OpenStreetMap community. The company’s commitment to open standards and its flexible API offerings address the needs of businesses seeking alternatives to closed platforms, fostering innovation in geospatial technology. By maintaining active memberships in organizations like the OpenStreetMap Foundation and FOSSGIS, OpenCage reinforces its dedication to sustainable, community-driven mapping infrastructure.

## Notable For
- **OpenStreetMap Integration**: Direct support for OpenStreetMap data, enhancing the visibility and utility of open geospatial resources.
- **Flexible Geocoding API**: Customizable solutions for forward and reverse geocoding, tailored to diverse use cases.
- **International Legal Presence**: Transition from a UK-registered entity to a German GmbH, reflecting strategic operational adjustments.
- **Community Engagement**: Active participation in FOSSGIS and OpenStreetMap Foundation, including financial sponsorships (e.g., silver membership since 2020).

## Body

### Founding and History
- **Inception**: Formally registered on March 12, 2015, in the UK (Companies House ID: 09485974).
- **2019 Restructuring**: Transitioned to a German GmbH in July 2019, discontinuing the UK legal entity.
- **Headquarters Relocation**: Moved from Münster (Friedrich-Ebert-Straße 7, 48153) to Hanover (Philipsbornstraße 2, 30165) in October 2021, as announced on the company blog.

### Leadership and Structure
- **Founders**: Marc Tobias Metten and an individual identified as Q127329136 (linked via LinkedIn).
- **Legal Form**: Currently a GmbH (German private limited company) with a nominal share capital of €25,010 (as of 2024).
- **Representation**: Legally represented by Marc Tobias Metten.

### Products and Services
- **Core Offering**: Geocoding API with OpenStreetMap integration, documented at [opencagedata.com](https://opencagedata.com/).
- **Support Resources**: Provides FAQs, pricing details, and technical documentation in English.
- **Compliance**: Publishes GDPR-aligned privacy policies and terms of service.

### Memberships and Affiliations
- **OpenStreetMap Foundation**: Joined as an organizational member in October 2016, upgrading to silver membership in October 2020.
- **FOSSGIS**: Active member of the German-speaking open-source geospatial organization.
- **OpenStreetMap UK**: Participates in regional OpenStreetMap advocacy.

### Online Presence
- **Social Media**: Engages via Twitter (@opencage), Mastodon (@opencage@en.osm.town), and Bluesky (@opencagedata.bsky.social).
- **GitHub**: Maintains open-source projects under the username `opencagedata`.
- **Transparency**: Shares operational updates through an official blog and publicized job postings.

### Identifiers and References
- **EU Trademark**: Registered trademark number 018592333.
- **Commercial Registry**: Listed in the German Commercial Register (HRB 272249, Charlottenburg Local Court).
- **Archival References**: Historical data preserved via Wayback Machine snapshots and OSM Foundation wiki records.

## References

1. [Source](https://blog.opencagedata.com/post/we-have-moved)
2. [Source](https://web.archive.org/web/20191216091017/https://opencagedata.com/about)
3. [Source](https://wiki.osmfoundation.org/wiki/Special:Diff/4251)
4. [Source](https://wiki.osmfoundation.org/wiki/Special:Diff/4669)
5. [Source](https://wiki.osmfoundation.org/wiki/Special:Diff/7656)
6. [Source](https://en.osm.town/@opencage/110728721419780468)
7. find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk
8. [Source](https://web.archive.org/web/20190609003822/https://opencagedata.com/about)
9. [Source](https://opencagedata.com/about)