Feature Request: “Buy Me a Coffee” Button on GitHub Profiles

[negash]

Select Topic Area

General

GitHub Feature Area

Profile

Body

I would like to propose a new feature for GitHub: a “Buy Me a Coffee” button integrated into user profile pages to support and reward open-source contributors.

Overview
 : When a user (e.g., Bob) logs into GitHub and views their profile, a “Buy Me a Coffee” button would be visible in a prominent location, such as the top-right corner of the profile page.

User Flow:
• An external user (e.g., Alice) visits Bob’s GitHub profile and appreciates his work.
• Alice clicks the “Buy Me a Coffee” button.
• She is presented with a dropdown menu to select a contribution amount (e.g., $5, $10, or a custom value).
• Alice completes the transaction through GitHub’s payment system.

Payment Processing:
• GitHub processes the transaction and may apply a platform fee (e.g., 10%).
• The remaining funds are transferred to the recipient (Bob), potentially on a monthly payout schedule.
• GitHub sends automated email notifications to both parties confirming the transaction and providing summaries.

Payment Options & Flexibility:
• Bob may link a secure payment account (e.g., Zelle or PayPal) to receive funds through the platform.
• Payment account integration should follow appropriate encryption and security standards.
• Accepting contributions is entirely optional; Bob can choose whether or not to enable or receive payments.

Benefits:
This feature would:
• Encourage and reward open-source contributions.
• Provide a simple and native way for users to financially support developers they appreciate.
• Create an additional revenue stream for GitHub through transaction fees.

Conclusion:
The “Buy Me a Coffee” feature would strengthen the open-source ecosystem by making it easier for contributors to receive recognition and financial support, while also benefiting GitHub as a platform.

[negash]

I believe this feature would provide significant value to the GitHub community while also enhancing the platform as a whole.

[queenofcorgis]

Hey there! 👋

Thanks for posting in the GitHub Community, @negash ! We're happy you're here. You are more likely to get a useful response if you are posting in the applicable category. The Accessibility category is a place for our community to discuss and provide feedback on the digital accessibility of GitHub products. Digital accessibility means that GitHub tools, and technologies, are designed and developed so that people with disabilities can use them.

I've gone ahead and moved this to the correct category for you Profile. I recommend also checking out GitHub Sponsors as it pertains to your feedback.