MacHeist began its newest software bundle deal this week with a twist — free software. In response to the deal, some developers have banded together to encourage people to pay for software and support developers. Organized by Red Sweater Software founder, Daniel Jalkut, “One Finger Discount” is a way for consumers to save 20 percent on software not provided in the current MacHeist bundle. More importantly for the companies involved, it’s a way for people to support indie developers.

It’s hard to argue with free software, like the current deal at MacHeist, but it’s important to remember that there are people behind the applications making a living. While Jalkut has been critical of MacHeist in the past, he said this isn’t anything against MacHeist.

“Everybody loves a deal,” said Jalkut. “We’re banding together to give customers a price break and to spread the word about Mac software they may not have heard about.”

As of this writing, there are 26 companies involved in the One Finger Discount including Red Sweater Software, Centrix, Riverfold, Stunt, Second Gear, Calf Trail, Made by Rocket, Dejal Systems, Watchmac, Mindnode, KennettNet, Quixpace, Helium Foot, Open Planet, Black Cat Systems, Electric Peel, M Cubed, Conceited, Kerlmax, Lucerne Systems, Outer Level, Smile On My Mac, Gaucho, Hashbang Industries, SecureMac, and Pocket Sevens.

Links to the discounted software are available from the One Finger Discount Web site. The promotion runs until Friday, November 13.