The Packaging Working Group of the Python Software Foundation is launching an all-new sponsorship program to sustain and improve Python's packaging ecosystem. Funds raised through this program will go directly towards improving the tools that your company uses every day and sustaining the continued operation of the Python Package Index.
With this program we are asking companies that rely on Python, its ecosystem of packaging tools, and PyPI to help us build a dependable basis to continue our efforts.
Improving the packaging ecosystem
Since 2017, the Packaging Working Group has secured multiple grants, completed one contract, and received a generous gift -- all with the goal of improving the Python packaging ecosystem for all users. Most of these projects were funded by not-for-profit organizations and all of them were one-time awards with specific objectives.
Results from these funded projects include:
- The successful relaunch of the Python Package Index, powered by the new 'Warehouse' codebase in 2018
- Adding security features to PyPI, including two-factor authentication in 2019
- Improving PyPI's web interface for users with disabilities and adding support for multiple locales in 2019
- Additional security-focused features for PyPI in 2019 and 2020
- Overhauling pip's user experience and dependency resolver in 2020
Companies have asked us how they can help fund the platform they depend on. With this new sponsorship program, the Working Group can sustainably fund packaging improvements not directed by a specific grant or contract and benefit millions of Python users around the world. Greater budget flexibility and a deeper reserve will help us invest in what the community needs.
Sustaining PyPI
As of April 2020, the Python Package Index responds to 800 million requests and delivers 200 million packages totalling 400 terabytes, during the typical day. Our users include hobbyists, scientists, companies, students, governments, nonprofits, and more.
Existing sponsors donate their services, which keeps PyPI free to users and to the PSF, aside from a subset of one staff member's time. Without these donations, the costs to operate PyPI each month would be staggering.
These critical service donations must not be taken for granted. Sponsoring the Packaging Working Group through this new program creates and maintains a stable reserve. We'll need that reserve in the event that we lose any of these in-kind service donations and must pay some or all of PyPI's operating costs.
Show your support!
As a company, your team can review the details of this new sponsorship program in our prospectus. Should you have any questions you can contact us at sponsorship@pypi.org. When you're ready, apply here. We are excited to hear from you!
If your company cannot donate: Even as an individual, your contributions count! No matter the size or frequency, please support us if you are able at donate.pypi.org.
