I always proposed that the way forward is training, consulting, and speciality services. I’ve seen this model work so much better than most, and for languages seems more obvious (I’m less sure how to handle the problem for packages in an ecosystem that also deserve funding)

I always wondered why that wasn’t the PSF model (having a business arm that provides these things to fund development and other initiatives like putting together conferences)

With Python in particular I’ve heard first hand from people who I have no reason to believe wouldn’t pay for what they’re saying: specific language features or enhancements. It’s impossible to donate directly to the PSF or otherwise for it be a line item for that specific purpose though, and I think in Pythons case it has hurt their ability to raise funds, maybe

Complex topic for sure!