
The Next Generation Internet (NGI) isn't just a dream; it's a bold mission to reshape the Internet into a domain of trust, security, and inclusivity.
NGI, an initiative by the European Commission, has been the driving force behind some incredible transformations on the web by envisioning an Internet that caters to our fundamental needs while staying true to the cherished values of European citizens.
Today, we're thrilled to share five captivating Impact Stories from the NGI Forum 2023.
✨These stories shed light on the exceptional work of individuals and organisations committed to the values and goals of the NGI initiative, serving as sparks of inspiration and enticing others to join this transformative journey.✨
But how has NGI been fostering innovation?
With a whopping €250 million invested from 2018 to 2020, NGI has supported around 1,000 Internet researchers and innovators across numerous projects. But it's not just about the money; it's about mentorship, guidance, and the journey from idea to reality. And that's not all – the European Commission has committed €62 million under Horizon Europe (2021-2022) to empower top Internet innovators in various domains.
NGI's emphasis on privacy and trust paves the way for a digitally empowered Europe. Isn't it fascinating how NGI is aligning with the digital future?
The Heart of Impact Stories
Have you ever wondered what drives the NGI initiative's champions to push the boundaries? These Impact Stories celebrate their dedication, providing insights into their extraordinary achievements in acceleration and exploitation.
The underlying theme of these Impact Stories is the incredible NGI community, collectively shaping an Internet that's all about the people.
✨🎩Let's dive into the magic of NGI!✨🎩
🏅Transatlantic SSI Interop
Have you noticed the rise in projects related to digital identity? Many use similar technologies but often need help with compatibility issues due to different technical choices.
Imagine two stories: one about a European student who wants to apply for a US visa and another about a US immigrant aspiring to study at a European university. These stories involve different organisations in the EU and the US.
This experiment called the "Transatlantic SSI Interop", shows that it's possible to make all these technologies work together, paving the way for different digital identity systems to understand and cooperate no matter where you are.
🏅PeerTube
Have you ever felt limited by the dominance of platforms like YouTube and Twitch when sharing videos online? What if there was a way to break free from big tech companies and promote freedom in the digital world?
In 2017, a group of dedicated individuals embarked on a mission to make this a reality with PeerTube. This platform empowers communities to create video-sharing platforms while focusing on the values of freedom and independence.
This journey was challenging, but with the support of programs like NGI 0 Discovery and NGI 0 Entrust, PeerTube improved its features, making it more user-friendly and enhancing search capabilities, video presentation, and more.
PeerTube doesn't aim to replace YouTube or Twitch but provides an alternative that champions freedom and inclusivity. It's a testament to the potential of technology when it's in the hands of a passionate community, allowing more people to share their stories and ideas independently of big tech companies.
🏅E-Project
In a world where data privacy and sustainability matter more than ever, meet Murena and E Foundation, two remarkable entities with a shared mission: to give people a choice of mobile devices that respect their privacy and the planet.
These entities represent a paradigm shift in European IT, fostering privacy-centric solutions. They aim to be the leading mobile ecosystem with open source, pro-privacy, and sustainability values, offering a European alternative to Big Tech companies.
In a digital world that values privacy and sustainability, Murena and E Foundation are pioneers, offering an open, secure, and ethical mobile experience. Their journey empowers you, gives you choices, and champions your right to privacy and sustainability.
🏅Tauri
Can you imagine an adaptable and secure computer program that protects your code like a guardian? Discover how Tauri is turning this dream into reality.
This toolkit speaks various programming languages, such as Rust and Node.js, crafting compact, powerful, and safe desktop and mobile apps. In today's security-driven era, Tauri's smart defences, from local servers to unique layers of protection, guard your code like a formidable sentinel.
But Tauri's journey continues; it aspires to forge a privacy-centric, secure European Browser, reducing dependence on browser giants. Rooted in a strong foundation and committed to the Cyber Resilience Act, Tauri is shaping a safer digital world where application security and data privacy are the new norms.
🏅Open Food Facts
In a world where the importance of our food choices is often overlooked, a silent crisis continues to grow – obesity rates are surging, affecting 39% of adults.
But it's not just our health at stake; the impact on the planet is becoming increasingly evident, with food contributing to a third of greenhouse gas emissions and a significant share of drinking water consumption and packaging waste.
Nevertheless, there is hope. More consumers are ready to act, and producers are beginning to listen. Amid this transformation, Open Food Facts emerges as a beacon of hope. It aims to empower consumers, producers, researchers, and governments to measure and change the impact of food on our health and the planet.
With the world's largest open-source food database, pivotal roles in creating the Nutri-Score, and innovative experiments like the Eco-Score, Open Food Facts pioneers food transparency. It addresses the challenge of making food choices healthier and kinder to the planet.
This is the beginning of a journey to rewrite the story of food, one search at a time.
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✨These stories showcase people pushing boundaries to create a people-focused Internet. With initiatives like Transatlantic SSI Interop, PeerTube, E-Project, Tauri, and Open Food Facts, NGI is changing how we use the Internet.✨
Each story is a testament to technology and passionate communities. Join us on this transformative journey where the Internet meets our needs and values.
It's a journey changing the digital world, one inspiring story at a time.
👉 Ready to join us? Visit the NGI Forum 2023 and be part of the change!