Yesterday, Microsoft announced the creation of the CodePlex foundation (CodePlex.org). It is different from the CodePlex.com platform, and it claims to be independent from its founder Microsoft. It's mission is to bridge the gap between commercial software development and Open Source software, "ultimately aiming to bring open source and commercial software developers together in a place where they can collaborate".
The 10-minute Slide
Cast from their FAQ page may give a good first impression:
This possibly could become the next step in making Open Source a natural, first class resident of the .NET eco system, driving it somewhat further away from its chaotic, "commercial interests and intellectual property are evil, all hail to Linux, and all the worst to the devil Microsoft" image, that it still has amongst many people, especially managers.
Of course, it's way too early to say what will actually result from this, but so far it sounds promising, and I will definitely keep an eye on it...