The SeDOA strategy to empower Diamond Open Access in Germany and Europe

SeDOA is a collaborative initiative designed to strengthen and expand Diamond Open Access (OA) publishing in Germany through a decentralized yet federated infrastructure. The project started in May 2025 and is funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG) for an initial period of three years (possible extension to six years). SeDOA brings together 15 national libraries, universities, and research institutes representing a wide range of disciplinary perspectives, including SSH, STEM, life sciences, and business studies. Its long-term aim is to integrate all German institutional publishing services into a sustainable Diamond OA network that is embedded within European and international developments.The project addresses the current fragmentation of institutional publishing by combining locally anchored services with shared standards, quality assurance mechanisms, and jointly developed innovations. SeDOA seeks to improve the quality, efficiency, visibility, and acceptance of institutional publishing while offering qualified publishing services tailored to the needs of scholars.Since its launch, SeDOA has focused on community building and capacity development through surveys, training programs, ideathons, and networking events. These activities facilitate the exchange of best practices, connect relevant stakeholders, and strengthen cooperation with disciplinary, regional, and European partners. Key developments include the preparation of the SeDOA Distribution Hub, a recommendation and connection service supporting new journals or titles transitioning to Diamond OA. Further measures address editorial workflows and networks, train-the-trainer formats for institutional librarians, sustainable funding models, and legal support. The (presentation) will share some of the findings/survey results to-date regarding needs and ideas of the scholar-led publishing community.