MotherDuck

MotherDuck is a serverless cloud analytics platform that extends DuckDB's capabilities to the cloud. Think of it as "DuckDB as a Service" – you get all the speed and simplicity of DuckDB but with cloud-scale storage, sharing, and collaboration features.

The platform uses a unique hybrid processing model where queries can run on your local machine, in the cloud, or both simultaneously. This means you keep the fast performance of local analytics while gaining the benefits of cloud computing when you need them. Each user gets their own isolated compute instance, eliminating resource conflicts and ensuring consistent performance.

Founded by database veterans from companies like Google BigQuery and Snowflake, MotherDuck is designed for teams who want powerful analytics without the complexity of traditional data warehouses. It supports standard SQL, integrates with popular data tools, and makes sharing data as simple as sending a link.

Getting started with MotherDuck is straightforward and requires no complex setup. First, sign up for a free account at MotherDuck – no credit card required for the trial. The platform provides a clean web interface where you can immediately start writing SQL queries.

Here's how to get started:

• Connect easily: Use the simple command .open md: to connect your local DuckDB to MotherDuck

• Upload data: Drag and drop CSV, Parquet, or JSON files directly in the web interface

• Write SQL: Use the built-in editor with AI-powered error suggestions called "FixIt"

• Share data: Create shareable database snapshots with a single SQL command

• Collaborate: Invite team members to access shared databases and queries

The platform automatically decides whether to process queries locally or in the cloud for optimal performance. You can also integrate with popular tools like dbt, Tableau, and Python notebooks using standard connection strings. For development workflows, you can build locally and deploy to production without changing your code.

• Hybrid processing (local + cloud execution)

• Serverless pay-per-query billing model

• AI-powered SQL error correction

• Multiple file format support

• Real-time team collaboration

• Per-user isolated compute instances

• 40+ tool integrations

• Enterprise security and compliance

• Automatic query optimization

• Zero-infrastructure management required