'''Wikimedia Deutschland – Gesellschaft zur Förderung Freien Wissens''' ('''WMDE''', ''Wikimedia Deutschland – Association for the Promotion of Free Knowledge'') is an independent membership-based association serving as a [[Wikimedia chapters|Wikimedia chapter]] in Germany. According to the bylaws, the purpose of the association is to support the creation, collection and distribution of Open Content in an altruistic way in order to support equal opportunity to access to knowledge and education. Founded on June 13, 2004 in Berlin, it was the first chapter to be created. As of May 2022, Wikimedia Deutschland has over 100,000 members. [[User:Jimbo Wales/2006 Completed Trips|Jimmy Wales]] is an honorary member of the association.
Any individual or organisation can become a member of the association. Voting rights, however, are limited to individuals. To become a member, fill out and submit the online form.
Donations
In order to fund its activities, the association relies on direct donations through an annual online fundraiser, membership dues, and third-party funding, including Wikimedia Foundation grants. As Wikimedia Deutschland is recognised as a tax-exempt charity, donations are tax-deductible in Germany. Donations can be made through an online donation platform.
People
Board
The association's board consists of the chair, two deputy chairs, the treasurer, and up to three members at-large, who can in turn appoint ('co-opt') two additional members. The board is elected by the general assembly for a two-year term. The following members are currently serving on the 9th board, elected by the 29th general assembly on June 22 2024:
