Countries that do not have a strong IT-producing industry should be looking at open source as a way to jump start the process and create a viable economic sector. The model of "develop once, use many" combined with local support can help in may ways. The absence of redistribution fees can help stop the drain of financial resources to software licenses from abroad. More importantly, support for open source technologies can be provided by local companies, thus providing a first-rate incentive for their creation and survival.

The fruits of open source work are also freely redistibutable to others in similar positions, making the whole economic system even more appealing. The promotion of open source can, therefore, be viewed as a political goal helping local development. An example of such an initiative currently taking place in Greece will be presented.