Clapper reposted this
The creator economy just crossed $205 billion. And most creators still don't own their audience. I've been thinking about this as both a founder and an investor. The next wave isn't about reach. It's about roots. The creators winning in 2026 aren't chasing algorithmic virality. They're building niche communities where: Subscribers pay to belong, not just to watch Engagement runs deep, not broad The platform works for them — not the other way around 88% of community builders now monetize with memberships. 48% run their entire operation alone. The data is saying what we've believed at Clapper from day one: The audience era is ending. The community era is here. Platforms that serve creators — not advertisers — will define the next decade. #creatoreconomy #clapper