Mastodon
Mastodon is a German decentralized open-source social network and microblogging platform, operated by Mastodon gGmbH in Berlin. Built on the ActivityPub protocol, it has no algorithmic feeds, no advertising, and no corporate ownership.
Brand Identity Data
HQ Country
Germany
HQ City
Berlin
Founded
2016
EU Headquartered
Yes
EU Manufactured
Yes
Ownership Type
nonprofit
Stock Exchange
Private
Tax Domicile
DE
Ultimate Parent
Mastodon gGmbH
Data Hosting
mixed
CLOUD Act Exposure
No ✓
AI Trains on User Data
no
GDPR Status
compliant
DSA Designation
standard
Carbon Neutral
no
B Corp Certified
No
Supply Chain
opaque
Repair / Recycling
No
Ethical Certifications
None verified
Verified on July 22, 2026
Corporate Lineage
2016
Founded
Eugen Rochko releases the first version of Mastodon.
2017
Protocol Adoption
Integration of the ActivityPub protocol, enabling federation.
2021
Incorporation
Mastodon gGmbH is established as a non-profit organization in Berlin.
2022
User Growth Surge
Significant influx of new users following acquisition of Twitter by Elon Musk.