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BreakPoint vs OpenHatch

OpenHatch helps new contributors find projects to contribute to. BreakPoint helps projects find new maintainers. Different audiences, complementary tools.

Published July 13, 2026 · ~3 min read

The short version

OpenHatch is for new contributors looking for a project.
BreakPoint is for project maintainers who need to step back.
Different problem, different audience. The platforms don't compete.

When to use which

If you're a new developer looking for an open source project to start contributing to, OpenHatch's directory is a great starting point. It filters by language, license, and "good for newcomers" signals.

If you're a maintainer who needs to find someone to take over a project, BreakPoint is the right tool. The 23-day median drop-to-first-PR is the proof the platform works. The platform is designed for the handoff, not the first contribution.

A nice loop: a project on BreakPoint that's looking for a new maintainer is also a great project for a new contributor to learn on. The "next steps" section tells them exactly what to work on first. OpenHatch could (and probably should) link to BreakPoint projects in their directory.

Frequently asked questions

What is OpenHatch?

A non-profit that helps new contributors find projects to contribute to. Founded 2009.

When should I use OpenHatch vs BreakPoint?

OpenHatch for new contributors looking for a project. BreakPoint for maintainers looking for a successor. They don't compete.

Related reading

For new contributors

How to contribute to open source (and find a project worth contributing to)

The first-contribution playbook.