Every startup journey begins with a flicker of an idea. For Hari, the founder of OpenSource DB, that spark came from a persistent question:
Why isn’t there a stronger ecosystem to support open-source databases in a cost-effective way, especially around PostgreSQL in India?
What began as a vision to empower database services has now grown into OpenSource DB, a PostgreSQL-focused services startup that blends community-building with deep technical expertise. Its core mission?
To connect developers, database engineers, and architects through hands-on training, consulting, events, and global collaborations.
Today, OpenSource DB is not just shaping the open-source database story in India, it’s becoming a trusted name in PostgreSQL innovation and advocacy on the world stage.
But let’s be clear:
The journey from idea to traction isn’t magic. It’s milestones.
Milestone 1: Clarity of purpose
The first step wasn’t code or capital—it was clarity. Hari saw that while open-source databases power most modern applications, the professionals behind them—especially in emerging markets—lacked structured support, mentorship, and visibility.
So the mission was born:
Build a thriving, inclusive, and technically strong company around open-source databases.
This clarity anchored every decision, from choosing the name OpenSource DB to planning its very first customer – a Probono consulting engagement for an AgroTech Startup. It wasn’t just about databases, it was about democratizing access to database education and professional growth.
Milestone 2: Start Small, Start Local
Instead of waiting for the “perfect moment” the OpenSource DB journey began with what was available, local startups and showcasing immediate ROI for the AgroTech startup enable Cloud modernization.
These early Customers weren’t about scale. They were about impact.
They created safe spaces for learning, sharing, and networking, proving that there was a demand for this kind of company. From there, OpenSource DB began catalyzing similar grassroots efforts for multiple customers.
Milestone 3: Consistency over hype
While others rushed to scale, OpenSource DB took the patient route. Hari and his team focused on showing up month after month—hosting workshops, publishing newsletters, mentoring budding database professionals, and partnering with universities and allied communities.
This slow, steady rhythm earned credibility.
Milestone 4: Evangelism going National, then global
With a strong foundation in place, OpenSource DB scaled its reach. It became a key organizer of Postgres Days India, supported the launch of new city user groups like PgVizag, and helped unify efforts under the broader India PostgreSQL Group umbrella.
Hari then took the OpenSource DB story to the global stage—presenting at FOSSASIA, PostgreSQL conferences worldwide, and forging alliances with international PostgreSQL bodies. These weren’t just speaking gigs—they were bridges between Indian talent and the global open-source ecosystem.
Milestone 5: Building for Scale, not just buzz. Buzz fades. Systems scale.
At OpenSource DB, the focus shifted early on from vanity metrics to building long-term value. Rather than chasing social media traction or one-off viral moments, the team invested in repeatable, scalable systems that could power sustainable growth in the PostgreSQL services ecosystem.
Why Scale Matters More Than Buzz
Recurring Revenue Through Repeatable Services
Instead of relying on ad-hoc consulting gigs, OpenSource DB designed structured service offerings—PostgreSQL health checks, migration packages, managed training programs, and subscription-based support. These standardized offerings created predictable revenue streams, critical for scaling sustainably.
So, What’s the Takeaway?
Traction isn’t a viral tweet. It’s not overnight success.
It’s clarity, consistency, community, and the courage to keep building—even when nobody’s watching.
Whether you’re a startup founder or a community builder, the path is the same:
Start with a clear mission, build slowly but surely, and celebrate the milestones that matter.
Because in the end, it’s these milestones—not the finish line—that tell the real story of growth.
This post is part of our #JourneyJune series, highlighting the behind-the-scenes stories of founders, builders, and community catalysts.
Stay tuned for our next piece on mental health and work-life balance in the startup grind.