Sponsor a developer initial discussion

[DonnieBLT]

Creating a program like the "OWASP Sponsor a Developer Program" can significantly impact open-source security projects by providing them with the necessary resources and developer power. Here's a conceptual plan to establish such a program:

1. Program Objective

The main goal is to connect developers with sponsors (individuals, companies, or organizations) who are willing to fund their work on open-source security projects under the OWASP (Open Worldwide Application Security Project) umbrella.

2. Program Structure

Project Submission

Open Call for Projects: Encourage project maintainers within the OWASP community to submit their projects for consideration. Each submission should include a detailed project description, goals, current status, and specific needs (e.g., development, documentation, testing).
Evaluation and Approval: A panel of OWASP experts reviews submissions to ensure projects align with OWASP's mission and have a clear, impactful objective. Approved projects get listed on the program's platform.

Developer Application

Developer Sign-up: Interested developers apply to participate in the program. Applications include their skills, experience, and project preferences.
Matching Process: A committee matches developers with projects based on the project's needs and the developer's skills and interests.

Sponsorship

Sponsor Registration: Sponsors sign up, indicating their budget and interest areas.
Project Funding: Sponsors choose from the list of approved projects and agree to fund specific development tasks. They can fund projects directly or support individual developers.

3. Implementation Tools and Platforms

Program Website: A dedicated website serves as the central hub for project submissions, developer applications, and sponsor registrations. This website should feature a user-friendly interface for browsing projects, developer profiles, and funding opportunities.
Collaboration Tools: Utilize collaboration tools (e.g., GitHub, Slack, Trello) to facilitate communication between developers, project maintainers, and sponsors.
Payment Platform: Integrate a secure payment platform to handle sponsor contributions, ensuring transparency and proper allocation of funds.

4. Monitoring and Reporting

Progress Tracking: Implement tools for tracking project progress, enabling sponsors to see the impact of their contributions.
Reporting: Regular reports update the OWASP community and sponsors on project achievements, challenges, and milestones.

5. Promotion and Community Engagement

Outreach Campaign: Promote the program through OWASP channels, social media, tech blogs, and industry conferences to attract sponsors and developers.
Community Support: Encourage the OWASP community to participate by providing feedback, mentoring new developers, and promoting the program.

6. Success Metrics

Project Completion Rates: Track the number of projects reaching their development goals.
Developer Engagement: Measure developer participation and retention within the program.
Sponsor Satisfaction: Gather feedback from sponsors on their ROI and the perceived value of their contributions.

Conclusion

Implementing the OWASP Sponsor a Developer Program requires careful planning and execution but has the potential to significantly advance the development of open-source security tools and resources. By fostering collaboration between developers, sponsors, and the OWASP community, this program can drive innovation and make the digital world safer.