The Fiscal Sponsorship Committee
The Fiscal Sponsorship Committee plays a custodial and oversight role rather than being actively involved in guiding the technical direction of the Boost C++ Libraries. Its primary function is to look after Boost’s organizational, legal, and logistical assets, ensuring the community and its resources are well-supported for the long-term sustainability of the project.
Boost operates with a decentralized and community-driven development model, where individual contributors and maintainers have the autonomy to drive their libraries' progress. The committee supports this by ensuring the ecosystem remains healthy and sustainable for current and future contributors.
Boost Assets
When referring to Boost "assets", these assets fall into five broad categories:
Trademark and Branding
The Boost name and logo are recognized worldwide within the C++ development community. The committee ensures that these are protected and used appropriately to maintain the reputation of the project. The Boost website, its domain (boost.org), and associated online content are managed to ensure accessibility and credibility.
Intellectual Property
The libraries themselves represent a significant intellectual asset, as they include contributions from many developers under the Boost Software License (BSL), or a similar open-source license. The committee ensures the letter and spirit of the license terms are upheld and remains compatible with Boost’s goals of being free and open-source. The extensive and detailed documentation accompanying Boost libraries is an important part of the codebase, ensuring that developers can effectively use the libraries.
Infrastructure
Boost’s GitHub repositories are a critical part of its infrastructure. The committee helps ensure these resources are properly maintained and accessible to contributors. Boost’s Test Matrix and automated build systems, particularly the Continuous Integration (CI) systems, are essential for quality assurance. The committee supports the infrastructure that allows library authors to ensure compatibility across compilers and platforms, and oversees the mailing lists and communication channels used by the Boost community for development discussions.
Community and Governance
Boost’s community of contributors and users is one of its most valuable assets. The committee provides governance to maintain the open, collaborative, and meritocratic culture of the project. This includes a role in the C++ community, including participation in conferences like C++ Now, and other events.
Financial and Legal Responsibilities
Boost operates as part of the C++ Alliance, a non-profit organization that ensures proper legal and financial management of Boost resources. The committee collaborates with the Alliance on these matters. If funding or sponsorships are received (for example, for infrastructure or events), the committee helps ensure these are used appropriately.
Contact Information
Currently, to contact the committee either post on the #boost Slack channel, or email the Boost Developers Mailing List, clearly mentioning the "Fiscal Sponsorship Committee" as the intended recipient.