Content creators are finding new and innovative ways to reach their audiences, with Patreon at the forefront. The service has been around since May of 2013 but has recently gained traction in the ever-changing social media landscape and boon of internet personalities. The platform has seen massive financial gain, with it now overseeing over six million active patrons and a network of more than 210,000 creators according to Brian Dean. With a post-money valuation of four billion dollars and a total funding crossing over $400 million, Patreon has become one of the premier hubs for content creators across the world.
What is Patreon?
According to the official Patreon website, they are a membership platform that provides business tools for content creators to run a subscription-based service. In essence, it is a way to expand the work or contributions of content creators to a widespread community.
Who uses Patreon?
A multitude of different content creators from all different professions inhabits Patreon. These professions include podcasters, writers, multi-media journalists, musicians, video creators, and more. The platform is user-friendly and allows creators and artists alike the potential to earn a monthly income via rewards and perks to their loyal subscribers. Its popularity has grown primarily through promotion on YouTube and popular comedians such as Jim Breuer have set up pages as well.
Patreon during Covid
Patreon’s appeal lies in its direct support model. By enabling creators to set up recurring donation pages, it fosters a sense of community among patrons and creators alike. Supporters can pledge a chosen amount monthly, not only to gain access to exclusive content but also to demonstrate their appreciation for the artists they admire.
During the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, Patreon became a lifeline for many creators. As traditional avenues of income faltered, the platform provided stability and a means to connect with fans in a virtual world. Aspiring video creators, too, have found success on Patreon, earning a reliable income by offering exclusive content and personalized perks to their dedicated subscribers.
Why the rapid growth?
In short, Patreon has been a steady source of income for some, and for others, it is a way to show appreciation to their favorite creators. Suzanne Humphries of ReviewGeek explains that by using the platform, creators are able to set up a page for recurring donations and offer perks in return. Other creators like the worlds beyond number patreon have seen significant financial backing from the platform. Additionally, financial backers can pledge a particular amount of money to said creators each month in exchange for different perks. These perks include exclusive uploads, early access to a creator’s work, patron recognition, the ability to give out suggestions, and access to bonus content if applicable.
Overall, Patreon has proved to be an effective medium for the relationship between creators and their audiences while providing incentives and motivation for interested parties to passionately pursue their craft. The platform has rapidly grown since the dark days of the COVID-19 pandemic, as the world continues to shift into a more digital way of life. Patreon is the present and a fixture for the future and will continue to have many creators eager to join its ranks.