📜 LICENSE CLASS: 📖 SOURCE-AVAILABLE
Executive Summary: What is it?
The Business Source License (BSL or BUSL) is a "Source Available" license, NOT an Open Source license (according to OSI definitions). It allows users to copy, modify, and redistribute the code for non-production or limited production use, but typically restricts "competing" commercial use or sets a revenue threshold (e.g., "Free for companies under $5M revenue").
Key Feature: The "Time Bomb"
A unique feature of BSL is the "Change Date." After a specific period (usually 3-4 years), the code automatically converts to a true Open Source license (like GPL or Apache).
CFO / Business Impact
- Internal Cost: Usually $0 for internal use cases within the specified revenue or usage thresholds.
- Commercial Risk: Prohibits building a competing SaaS product using the licensed code without a commercial agreement.
- Exit Strategy: Each version converts to its Change License (GPL 2.0 or later, or a GPL-compatible license chosen by the licensor) on its Change Date, at the latest four years after its first public release, which supports long-term digital sovereignty.