Google Summer of Code 2007: We Are In!

Posted by Sigurd on 15 March 2007

We are proud to say that Google has accepted SilverStripe to be one of only 113 open source projects globally suitable for the the Google Summer of Code 2007. This will see Google pay USD4500 to top students worldwide to participate in the open source programming community and add great new features to SilverStripe. We're also very excited at being the first New Zealand organisation to make the cut since Google began running this in 2005. 

"I feel SilverStripe is a great example of a well-constructed open source project. It makes innovative use of technology but it is easy to use, which is just as important for open source, so it is a good candidate for Google to support.

With so much going on in the web- development arena, it will be easy for Summer of Code developers to contribute, and with the mentors having helped students in the past, we were happy to trust SilverStripe to be the first New Zealand organisation involved."  

-- Chris DiBona, Open Source Programs Manager, Google Inc.

How do I apply? How does it all work?

1. Demo or download our package and learn how to build SilverStripe sites if you're not already part of our developer community.
2. Choose one of our project ideas, or come up with your own... 
3. Submit an inspiring application between March 14-26 which Google and SilverStripe jointly review. This year is expected to similarly competitive as last year (6000 applications for the 600 project spots), so you should read the student application tips. In addition to great programming abilities (see our test), we are looking for passion in interface design and innovation. You are also doing yourself a favour by demonstrating that you would stay a long term contributor to SilverStripe past your project.
4. Successful students are selected by April 9th, and then have to the end of May to plan the project with a mentor (one of the SilverStripe core developers) and learn more about SilverStripe.
5. You then work on the project over June, July and August, getting two payments based on mid and final evaluations. (See full timeline and program process)

If you have other project ideas, or questions relating to Summer of Code in relation to SilverStripe, definately get in touch.

Either comment below, email me at sigurd@silverstripe.com, or Skype sigurdmagnusson to quickly run high-level ideas by if you wish.

Please note you must use the normal process for submitting your detailed final application.

Good Luck!