Skip to main content

CNCF Governance

The CNCF governance structure establishes the framework for how the foundation operates, makes decisions, and evolves its technical direction. This section provides comprehensive information about governance policies, processes, and principles that guide CNCF projects and community groups.

Overview​

The CNCF governance framework ensures transparent, fair, and effective management of the cloud native ecosystem. It encompasses the Technical Oversight Committee (TOC), Technical Advisory Groups (TAGs), subprojects, initiatives, and community groups, all working together to advance cloud native computing.

Governance Documents​

DocumentDescriptionAudience
Technical Group GovernanceComprehensive governance framework for TAGs, subprojects, initiatives, and technical community groupsAll CNCF maintainers, contributors, and community leaders
Technical Leadership Principles GuidanceGuidance on applying CNCF technical leadership principles in practiceTAG chairs, tech leads, and project maintainers
Governance Remediation ProcessProcess for addressing governance issues and conflictsTOC members, TAG chairs, and maintainers

Key Governance Principles​

The CNCF governance structure is built on several foundational principles:

Core Principles
  • Transparency: All governance decisions are made in the open with public documentation and discussions
  • Meritocracy: Leadership positions are earned through technical contribution and community engagement
  • Vendor Neutrality: No single vendor can control the direction of CNCF projects or groups
  • Community-Driven: Decisions reflect the needs and input of the broader community
  • Technical Excellence: Focus on solving real-world problems with high-quality technical solutions

Governance Structure​

The CNCF technical governance operates through four main organizational units:

Technical Advisory Groups (TAGs)​

Primary organizational units aligned with industry problem domains or serving common needs across projects. TAGs provide technical expertise, project evaluation, and ecosystem guidance.

Learn more about TAGs →

Subprojects​

Ongoing work efforts within TAGs or under the TOC directly, focusing on specific domains such as security assessments, contributor strategy, or project reviews.

Initiatives​

Lightweight, time-bound organizational units for tightly scoped work such as white papers, reports, or specific deliverables.

Learn more about Initiatives →

Technical Community Groups (TCGs)​

Topic or domain-focused groups serving as rallying points for community discussion, knowledge sharing, and coordination of potential future initiatives.

Learn more about TCGs →

Governance Roles​

Different roles within the CNCF governance structure carry specific responsibilities:

RoleScopeTermKey Responsibilities
TAG ChairTechnical Advisory Group2 yearsOversee TAG planning and execution, ensure adherence to principles, report to TOC
Tech LeadTechnical Advisory Group2 yearsProvide subject matter expertise, guide technical decisions, maintain quality
Subproject LeadSubproject1 yearOrganize subproject work, make design decisions, report status
TCG OrganizerTechnical Community Group2 yearsFacilitate meetings, coordinate initiatives, connect with other groups

How to Participate​

CNCF governance is designed to be accessible and welcoming to contributors:

  1. Attend Public Meetings: All TAG, subproject, and TCG meetings are open to the public
  2. Join Discussions: Participate in mailing lists, Slack channels, and GitHub discussions
  3. Contribute to Initiatives: Help deliver white papers, reports, and other community resources
  4. Nominate for Leadership: Self-nominate or nominate others for leadership positions
  5. Provide Feedback: Share input on governance proposals and process improvements

Getting Started​

For New Contributors

If you're new to CNCF governance and want to get involved:

  1. Review the Technical Group Governance document to understand the structure
  2. Explore the Technical Leadership Principles Guidance to learn about expected behaviors
  3. Find a TAG, subproject, or TCG that aligns with your interests
  4. Attend meetings and introduce yourself to the community
  5. Look for "good first issue" labels in related repositories

Contact and Support​

For questions about CNCF governance: