Apache Kafka, a distributed event streaming platform, is often perceived as too costly and complex for the majority of its users, with around 80% utilizing it for small-data streams but incurring big-data expenses. Aiven addresses this "80% problem" by introducing Inkless, a cloud-native service that optimizes Kafka's storage classes to be more accessible and affordable, allowing users to fine-tune latency, durability, and cost without the typical overhead associated with Kafka deployments. The service leverages advanced storage mechanisms, such as Diskless Topics (KIP-1150) and Tiered Storage, to reduce the economic barrier for small and medium data streams while maintaining scalability and reliability. By simplifying Kafka's deployment model and lowering entry costs, Aiven aims to broaden Kafka adoption beyond its traditional large-scale use cases, making it more viable for smaller workloads and encouraging a shift from isolated projects to integrated platforms.