Donationware is a type of software that is offered to users for free, but encourages them to make a voluntary donation to support its development and maintenance. This model allows users to access the software without any upfront cost, while also providing an opportunity to contribute financially if they find the software valuable. The concept of donationware is often used by independent developers and small companies, as it helps them sustain their projects without relying on traditional sales models. Popular examples of donationware include certain applications and games, where users can choose to donate through platforms like PayPal or Patreon if they appreciate the product.