I'm guessing the GP was specifically referring to the US categorization of non-profits known as a public charity, formed under section 501(c) of the Internal Re

I'm guessing the GP was specifically referring to the US categorization of non-profits known as a public charity, formed under section 501(c) of the Internal Revenue Code. There are specific limitations of the types of organizations that can or cannot be 501(c)3 (the most common type of non-profit in the US), and there are restrictions on how revenue streams are balanced. That said, "So, unless your definition of "successful" requires that you distribute surplus revenues to shareholders, then yes, it is possible to start a successful tech non-profit." is very salient and I agree wholeheartedly.