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[parent] [thread] 3 comments
1. RustSu+(OP)[view] [source] 2025-12-04 00:41:31
This highlights the value of having non-profits as a 501(c)(3). The transparency about Hack Club is refreshing.

The Rust Foundation is a 501(c)(6) and not a 501(c)(3). The Rust Foundation would do better for the community if they were a 501(c)(3) and more transparent about finances. Follow this example for the greater good.

replies(2): >>jyunwa+t2 >>yannon+kI
2. jyunwa+t2[view] [source] 2025-12-04 01:00:50
>>RustSu+(OP)
More context: 501(c)(3) orgs are non-profits that include charities, whereas 501(c)(6) orgs are non-profits with less strict requirements. Both are tax-exempt federally, but 501(c) orgs have higher financial transparency requirements and higher restrictions on political activity (which qualifies donations to 501(c)s as tax-deductible).
3. yannon+kI[view] [source] 2025-12-04 08:25:17
>>RustSu+(OP)
> The Rust Foundation is a 501(c)(6) and not a 501(c)(3). The Rust Foundation would do better for the community if they were a 501(c)(3) and more transparent about finances. Follow this example for the greater good.

This was exactly my issue with the Rust Foundation back in 2021 when it was formed, 501(c)(6) are for trade organisations. To this day, individuals still CANNOT donate to the Rust Foundation which means it is not community led.

> Note: At this time, the Rust Foundation [still] does not offer individual memberships.

https://rustfoundation.org/get-involved/#donations

The main issue of the Rust Foundation is that makes it easy for companies to buy influence in the project by buying a board seat as a benefit.

I agree that the Rust Foundation should change their governance structure to a 501(c)(3) instead of a 501(c)(6).

replies(1): >>aw1621+NI9
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4. aw1621+NI9[view] [source] [discussion] 2025-12-07 06:51:22
>>yannon+kI
> To this day, individuals still CANNOT donate to the Rust Foundation which means it is not community led.

The very same page you link contradicts this claim:

> The Rust Foundation gratefully accepts donations from individuals and non-member organizations alike!

The difference is that the Rust Foundation accepts individual donations but does not (currently) accept individual memberships.

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