I’m still reflecting on yesterday’s The Digital Nonprofit event, and one thought keeps sticking with me: Most nonprofits are just “renting” their communities from Big Tech.
We spent an hour with Michael Foster from the Newsmast Foundation, and he didn’t pull any punches. If your entire community lives in a Facebook Group or on X, you’re at the mercy of sudden algorithm shifts, policy changes, or—let’s be honest—corporate whims. You don’t own the space; you’re just a guest who can be asked to leave at any time.
The biggest takeaway? It’s time to move toward “owned” infrastructure. By using decentralized tools like ActivityPub, organizations can build their own digital “archipelagos.” You get to:
- Set your own rules: No more fighting toxic algorithms that prioritize outrage over mission.
- Control your data: Your community’s interactions stay private and under your governance.
- Create a safe haven: A calm, mission-focused space that actually reflects your values.
It was eye-opening to see how communities from Welsh towns to Brazilian museums are already building these independent homes.
Check out the full summary of our top 7 learnings here: 👉 https://digitalnonprofit.ca/2026/05/06/apps-for-change-building-community-owned-spaces-in-a-big-tech-world/
Elijah van der Giessen 