The Sharing Group takes a stake in Publicroam

Amsterdam, July 17, 2025 – The Sharing Group, the group behind sharing economy companies such as Mijndomein, MyWheels, EnergyZero, and Hegg Energy, has taken a strategic stake in Publicroam, the Dutch Wi-Fi service that offers secure and worry-free internet access at more than 1,300 public locations. With this step, The Sharing Group underlines its commitment to a European digital infrastructure that serves people, with privacy and security as its foundation.

Publicroam was founded in 2017 by Paul Francissen and Ted Dinklo, two entrepreneurs from the Zeist region who were frustrated by the insecure, cumbersome way guest Wi-Fi is often offered. Their solution has since become a national alternative: users sign up once and then connect automatically and securely to the Wi-Fi network of participating locations, such as town halls, libraries, healthcare institutions, and sports facilities.

European movement for digital autonomy

The investment fits within the strategy of The Sharing Group, which is positioning itself via its TSG Online division for a European movement for digital autonomy. Henri de Jong, founder and CEO of The Sharing Group: “Sharing Wi-Fi securely together, that is what Publicroam stands for and what we as The Sharing Group wholeheartedly support. With this collaboration, we strengthen each other’s mission and continue to build an open, fair, and secure internet for everyone.”

Shared vision, shared momentum

Both parties share a strong social vision and work on digital solutions that put people first. Where The Sharing Group previously invested in alternatives to commercial tech giants, such as Leafcloud and Greenhost for sustainable European cloud hosting and services, this step into digital infrastructure is a logical next phase.

Paul Francissen, co-founder of Publicroam, says: “We have always built a service that connects people in a way that is secure, simple, and respectful of their data. In The Sharing Group, we have found a partner that shares our mission and can help us make an impact on a larger scale. Their focus on long-term value and social relevance gives us the confidence that together we can continue to build a fairer internet landscape.”

Publicroam will continue to operate independently, with Francissen and Dinklo as management. The collaboration focuses on accelerating growth in the Netherlands and exploring expansion to other European countries.