The thing is, I'm very happy with that not being part of the model, but the whole model.
I don't want to deal with experimentation or complex organizations or "an enhanced enterprise version" or free tiers. I want someone to take money from myself and other customers, and use it to make a good product without shenanigans.
E: As far as I know, it is still possible to get free accounts on sr.ht - however, it is very transparent that this is not a permanent offer.