A group of 33 collectives and associations that organize technical events for developers have issued a joint appeal, expressing concern over the economic challenges they are facing. As sponsorship budgets shrink and ticket sales decline, these groups fear that their conferences might no longer be financially viable. The potential disappearance of these events could have a broader negative impact on the tech sector, especially as the industry increasingly relies on artificial intelligence (AI) for development and innovation. Many of these technical conferences are organized by communities of volunteers who manage tasks like securing venues, inviting speakers, and organizing event logistics. While the enthusiasm of these volunteers is crucial, it is not enough to cover the costs of events, which include venue rentals, safety compliance, supplies, meals, and other expenses. These events often rely on a combination of membership fees and revenue generated from ticket sales, with sponsorship from companies playing a key role in balancing the budget. Sponsors are companies that pay to promote their brand at the event, either through on-site booths or by featuring their logo on event materials. In return, they gain visibility and a platform to promote their recruitment efforts. However, the usual funding mechanism is now struggling. The 33 organizations have noted a sharp decline in sponsorship and ticket sales. For instance, the AFUP, a French association that organizes the Forum PHP, reported a 17% drop in revenue from ticket sales and sponsorships in 2026, and a 47% decrease in ticket sales compared to the previous year. This financial strain threatens the sustainability of the association. Smaller events are also feeling the pressure. The BreizhCamp, for example, faced reduced sponsorships and had to raise ticket prices, but this was not enough to offset the loss of revenue. Other events are adapting by reducing expenses and choosing more affordable venues, like the BDX I/O conference, which moved to a university campus to cut costs. Despite these efforts, organizers are struggling to maintain the quality of their events while managing tighter budgets. The organizers emphasize that the value of these conferences lies not only in their technical content but also in the human connections they foster. They argue that these events are crucial for sharing expertise, inspiring new talent, and supporting open-source projects that underpin many tech companies. They also urge businesses to consider the long-term benefits of sponsoring these events, beyond just immediate returns. If these events disappear, it could lead to a loss of opportunities for visibility and recruitment, ultimately harming the tech ecosystem.