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Wikipedia’s Funding: How Donors Power the Free Knowledge Revolution

Source: How is Wikipedia funded? (2025-11-27)

Wikipedia, the world’s largest free knowledge repository, has become an indispensable resource for billions of people worldwide. As of November 2025, it boasts over 65 million articles across more than 300 languages, maintained by nearly 250,000 dedicated volunteers. Unlike commercial platforms, Wikipedia operates entirely on donations, primarily from individual users, foundations, and philanthropic organizations. This funding model ensures its independence from advertising and corporate influence, preserving its neutrality and open access. Recent developments highlight that Wikimedia Foundation, the nonprofit behind Wikipedia, allocated over $150 million in 2024 to support platform development, community engagement, and technological innovation. Notably, the Foundation has expanded its fundraising efforts globally, reaching new donor demographics in Asia and Africa, and launched targeted campaigns emphasizing the importance of free knowledge for education and democracy. Additionally, the Foundation has increased transparency by publishing detailed financial reports, showing that approximately 85% of funds go directly to project support, with the remainder invested in technology upgrades and community programs. In 2025, Wikipedia’s funding model has also adapted to include micro-donations via social media platforms, corporate matching programs, and innovative fundraising events like virtual galas. The Wikimedia Foundation’s commitment to transparency and community involvement has strengthened trust among donors and users alike. As Wikipedia continues to grow, its funding strategy underscores the vital role of global citizen support in maintaining an unbiased, accessible, and ever-expanding knowledge base. This model not only sustains Wikipedia but also sets a precedent for other open-access projects striving for independence and sustainability in the digital age.

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