# Key Points from IRC Log (March 27, 2011)

- Kanzure mentioned that H+ (a transhumanist organization) was planning to allocate $20,000 for an open-source DNA synthesizer project, having decided against a "scouter" project due to delays.

- Kanzure shared a comprehensive list of DIY transhumanist projects at http://diyhpl.us/~bryan/papers2/diytranshuman_projects.v4.html as potential candidates for development funding.

- There was a substantive discussion about funding models for open-source technology platforms, with debate about whether non-profits or commercial entities are better suited for initial platform development before commercialization.

- The conversation explored hackerspace business models, with disagreement about the effectiveness of membership fee structures ($20-60/month) versus more sustainable commercial approaches for funding equipment and space.

- AaronBarr shared his experience with FAMiLab, noting that membership increased after they lowered dues to $20 and acquired a laser cutter, highlighting the importance of having valuable equipment to attract members.

- Participants discussed the challenges of hackerspaces acquiring specialized equipment like metal lathes, mills, and testing equipment, with suggestions for community fundraising approaches like Kickstarter campaigns.

- The conversation touched on the tension between gift economies and market economies in collaborative technology spaces, and how this affects sustainability and growth.