It's funny how "not popular in industry" is always overstated. I can't deny it has very small marketshare. And yet, I've had 4 jobs in the last 6 years that have all used Nix. None of them "small startups" either. So you don't need to be popular to have enough for people to get paid to use it. Haskell is the same way.
Also, I ignore people openly who try to evaluate "business sense" as if technology decisions can be quantified like that. The biggest benefit of these Nix and Haskell shops is it attracts enthusiasts who in turn train and excite other hires. Which is turn adds more Nix and Haskell lifers to the world. One "bad business decision" at a time. That's my MO at least :)
Also, I ignore people openly who try to evaluate "business sense" as if technology decisions can be quantified like that. The biggest benefit of these Nix and Haskell shops is it attracts enthusiasts who in turn train and excite other hires. Which is turn adds more Nix and Haskell lifers to the world. One "bad business decision" at a time. That's my MO at least :)