A plan for open source software maintainers
It seems one small approach in the right direction would be for someone+ to provide a discovery/marketing service for helping spotlight, bring to the forefront those working on the infrastructure-type projects. Thinking more along the lines of a podcast, blog, etc. that would generate revenue from sponsors. Akin to Changelog or other podcasts, but specifically focused on the behind-the-scenes/infrastructure/maintaince type stuff - the "backstory" if you will. Folks could donate to this service and funds could be funneled to the highlighted projects/developers.The "marketing service" angle would be to provide free marketing to these types of projects. Inviting folks as guests, writing about projects, etc.It does solve the overall problem for everyone, but it would be going in the general right direction. There may be efforts like this already, but I am not aware of them.+ I do not have the time it would take to do this well.