Why Build a company on an Open Source Model

At OpenHarvest, we believe that collaboration and shared innovation are the best ways to create a more resilient and sustainable food system. That’s why we are building our business on an open-source model, licensing all of our devices, designs, and software code under Creative Commons. By doing so, we invite growers, makers, and innovators to improve upon and adapt our work, helping advance sustainable food production worldwide.

However, we understand the importance of balancing openness with fair market practices. That’s why we’ve placed a simple caveat on our non-commercial license: if you want to make and sell our designs at your local maker fair, through a retail outlet, or even online within your own country, we fully support that. We simply ask that you refrain from selling our designs online in the U.S. This approach ensures that OpenHarvest can remain financially sustainable while fostering a thriving community of independent creators and small businesses.

The open-source model has been a game-changer in both the software and hardware industries. Companies like Arduino and Red Hat have thrived by embracing open-source principles, building strong communities, and offering premium products and services that complement their free designs. Arduino, for example, made its hardware designs publicly available, leading to an explosion of innovation while still maintaining a strong brand and selling official components. Despite giving away its core Linux software, Red Hat became a billion-dollar company by providing enterprise support and services.

On the flip side, some companies have struggled with the open-source model. Once a leader in 3D printing, MakerBot thrived on open-source principles but later shifted toward proprietary designs, alienating its early adopters. OpenMoko, an open-source mobile phone project, failed to gain traction due to limited hardware support and difficulty competing with more polished commercial alternatives. 

Open-source businesses can succeed, but they must balance openness, sustainability, and quality.

As we get started, we recognize that different growers have different needs. Some people just want cheap, efficient solutions that do the job without concern for aesthetics. Others may want high-end, elegant designs that function well and look great in their homes, restaurants, or urban farms. That’s why we are committed to offering both practical, affordable options for those who prioritize efficiency and premium, beautifully designed solutions for those who want their setups to be as visually appealing as they are functional.

By combining open-source innovation with thoughtful business practices, OpenHarvest aims to empower individuals and communities to take control of their food production while building a sustainable, cooperative ecosystem. 

Join us on this journey, which will hopefully be long and delicious.