At nowtec solutions, we come from an activist background. We’ve organized protests, led campaigns with hundreds of thousands of people, and learned one thing in the process: real change requires not only passion, but also damn good organization and the right tools. We’ve experienced firsthand how a movement can collapse under the pressure of success if the IT infrastructure doesn’t grow with it. And we’ve seen how quickly you can lose control of your data if you rely on the wrong partners.
Today we face a new reality. The USA, once seen as a guarantor of stability and freedom, is increasingly acting as an unpredictable player on the world stage. Laws like the CLOUD Act allow US authorities to access the data of US companies, even if that data is stored on European servers. This means: your data at Microsoft, Google, or Amazon isn’t really yours. It’s a pawn in geopolitical games.
In this new world, digital sovereignty is no longer an abstract idea, but a necessity. It’s about regaining control over your data and your digital infrastructure. It’s about freeing yourself from dependence on US hyperscalers and choosing an ethical, European alternative that aligns with your values.
The deceptive convenience of the US cloud
For many organizations, especially in the non-profit sector, turning to the large US providers is tempting. The tools are familiar, the prices seem low, and they are easy to use. But this convenience comes at a high price. A recent study on digital sovereignty in Germany shows that companies and public institutions are almost 100% dependent on foreign technologies. [1] This dependency is a strategic risk.
The problem isn’t just the potential access by US authorities. It’s the lack of transparency, the opaque algorithms, and the constant threat of “sovereignty washing.” Many providers advertise “European data centers” but conceal the fact that technological and operational control remains in the US. So you only have the illusion of control, not actual control.
Nextcloud: The sovereign alternative
This is where Nextcloud comes in. Nextcloud is more than just cloud storage. It’s a complete, self-hosted collaboration platform that gives you full control over your data. Developed in Europe and based on open-source technology, Nextcloud offers everything you need for your daily work:
- Files: Store, sync and share your files securely – with end-to-end encryption and full control over access rights.
- Office: Create and edit documents, spreadsheets and presentations directly in your browser without having to share your data with third parties.
- Communication: Make video calls, chat with your team and share your screen – all in one integrated and secure environment.
- Calendar and contacts: Manage your appointments and contacts without having to entrust them to Google or Microsoft.
The crucial difference: With Nextcloud, you decide where your data is stored. Whether on your own servers or with a trusted European provider like nowtec solutions in Switzerland – you always have full control. The code is transparent; there are no backdoors and no hidden agendas.
The path to digital independence
Switching to Nextcloud isn’t rocket science. At nowtec solutions, we’ve made the process as simple as possible. We analyze your existing infrastructure, develop a customized migration plan, and support you every step of the way. We know from experience that the transition can be challenging, but we also know it’s worth it.
Digital sovereignty is not a luxury, but a strategic necessity for any organization that takes its values seriously and wants to secure its mission for the long term. It’s time to take back control. It’s time for Nextcloud.
Are you ready to take the first step? Then talk to us. We’d be happy to show you how Nextcloud can make your organization more independent and secure.
References
[1] Computer Weekly. (2025, November 21). Status quo: Digital sovereignty 2025/2026 in GermanyRetrieved fromhttps://www.computerweekly.com/de/feature/Status-quo-Digitale-Souveraenitaet-2025-2026-in-Deutschland
