The Foundation was formed by GitLab, Inc. as part of its mission to create a world in which everyone can contribute. The company leadership felt it was important to support organizations that could further this goal on a global scale. When GitLab, Inc. [went public](https://about.gitlab.com/handbook/being-a-public-company/#:~:text=GitLab began trading on the,part of realizing our mission.) in October 2021, it dedicated 1% of its shares to further this aim. This was influenced by the desire to set aside equity for social impact. The Foundation was officially launched in September 2022. We are an entirely remote organization (incorporated in California) and operate on a global scale.

The Foundation is funded by GitLab, Inc. and its CEO, Sytse ‘Sid’ Sijbrandij, through his family foundation, the Sijbrandij Foundation. The Foundation is an independent nonprofit entity, and its operations are autonomous from GitLab, Inc.

The GitLab Foundation’s mission is to improve people’s lifetime earnings through access to opportunities, and a vision of a world in which one million more people can afford a better life.

People everywhere aspire to improve their lives, support their families, and contribute to their communities. But often, achieving this can seem impossible. The GitLab Foundation is investing in people, and accelerating ways for individuals to gain the skills and opportunities they need to succeed. As people thrive, so will their communities and economies.