GitHub launches exclusive repositories for sponsors

GitHub

GitHub wants to give developers more tools to build relationships with their sponsors. Repositories accessible only by those sponsors will be an important tool for that.

GitHub is launching sponsor-only repositories. These are repositories accessible only to sponsors of certain projects. Developers can use them to thank sponsors with early access, for example. Furthermore, they provide a place where programmers can more efficiently converse with their backers.

Sponsorware

The repositories additionally provide an optional new category of software. Between proprietary and open source projects, there will now be sponsorware. According to GitHub, the new functionality meets demand from both sponsors and developers themselves.

Developers are further given more tools to tweak the relationship with their sponsors. For example, you can set whether to accept one-time sponsorship amounts and possibly set a minimum amount. A new CTA should further highlight the ability to sponsor.

Controversial

GitHub introduced in 2019 the ability for people or organizations to support opensource developers. The platform thus hoped to make it more interesting for talent to participate in opensource projects. The system is reminiscent of Patreon, for example. At its launch, the sponsor functionality drew criticism for not quite fitting in with the open source culture. Developers would be driven more by money.