If you have a budget of $500/mo (EUR or USD, roughly) that could be used to strengthen Tor network, what would you use it for and why?
Some ideas:
Run new relays: Lease VPS or colocate hardware yourself
Fund existing operators: Provide stipends or grants to help other operators
Donate to the Tor Foundation: Support core development, research, and docs.
Other ideas: e.g. donation platforms, bandwidth grants, research funding?

Which approach (or mix) yields the best consensus-weight gain per dollar? Any tips on pitfalls, vetting, or recommended donation channels?

I've been leaning towards running new relays since it seems to always benefit from more diverse growth but wondering what others think.

Thanks for your insights!