# Apache Software Foundation
> The Apache Software Foundation (ASF) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation providing organizational, legal, and financial support for a diverse range of open-source software projects. Established in 1999, it operates as a decentralized community of developers who contribute to hundreds of projects under the 'Apache Way' meritocratic governance model.
- URL: https://optimly.ai/brand/apache-software-foundation-independent
- Slug: apache-software-foundation-independent