The Software Preservation Network is navigating a structured, twelve-month sunsetting process
After much reflection and conversation across leadership, our fiscal sponsor, and community members, I’m writing to share an important update about the Software Preservation Network (SPN).
SPN will be entering a structured, twelve-month sunsetting process.
This is a proactive and values-aligned decision to responsibly conclude the current iteration of the Network while honoring the partnerships, working groups, and field-building efforts that have defined our work.
Over the past year, we pursued multiple strategies to sustain SPN’s operations, including renewed membership outreach, integrating the EAASI Research Alliance more fully into SPN’s programming, and investing in staff capacity. At the same time, shifts in membership, rising operational costs, and broader economic pressures affecting higher education and cultural organizations significantly impacted our financial outlook. In alignment with our Operational Reserve Policy, we have reached the threshold that calls for a structured sunset.
Choosing this path now allows us to provide clarity to members and partners, wind down programs responsibly, preserve and “compost” SPN’s resources for continued field use, and document lessons learned for future networks.
I remain deeply proud of what this community has built and grateful for the care, labor, and imagination so many of you have contributed. I hope this next year offers space not only for thoughtful transition, but for reflection on how this work can continue to evolve and strengthen the field.
Chelle Sanders, Program Manager [SPN]
