Nic at Storj here. Can't really talk about Maidsafe as I don't know much about it. But can tell you more about what Storj is trying to do.
Storj is
trying to do what MaidSafe has done. MaidSafe is refactoring code - optimizing for the successful launch in Q1 2015
If one was to look into the MaidSafe project anyone could notice that storj is just a rip off from MaidSafe. (minus the blockchain part)
MaidSafe solves all your consensus issues without the almighty slow bloating blockchain.
http://maidsafe.net/MaidSafe is before storj, MaidSafe has finished code - while it may appear that storj tries to engage the community more - it is only because they can not seem to handle themselves. lol
MaidSafe takes on help and they pay 40,000 pounds a year...
It is conclusive that even if storj releases some software - it is inferior, poorly planned, and simply is an allure to eyes because of the claims for decentralized internet - these foundations of decentralization including: Privacy, Security, and Freedom have been taken up a solid 6 years ahead of the storj project by MaidSafe.
Also MaidSafe doesn't need your money - they already have plenty of enough to take the project to completion - and everything I know is from being a member of
https://www.maidsafe.org/and reading all of the announcements by the MaidSafe team - and following their github.
This is the truly amazing project and I look forward to being on the SAFE Network using bitcoins and enjoying absolute privacy.