Content creators own, control and profit from everything they upload
In response to the massive push from creators to control their content, 8 announced today the launch of the first premium content sharing platform that allows content creators to own, control and profit from everything they upload. 8 has created an elegant and customizable interface that allows people to share, monetize, and directly donate to causes if they choose.
"The idea that people can monetize the time they spend everyday on social media is very exciting," said Sue Fennessy, founder & chair of 8. "Today, we are owned by technology companies that house our content and sell advertisements on our pages. At 8, we believe the creator should have the absolute right to control and profit from the advertising surrounding their content."
8's unique model enables:
A user-controlled TV-like interface that allows people to create and share content easily;
A programmatic advertising engine that enables creators to simply accept or reject ads, and keep 80% of the revenue;
A robust analytics engine designed to help creators better understand their audience;
A payment system that allows people to pay it forward to causes.
"The early response to 8 is strong and indicative of how ready people are to challenge the established balance," said Beth Haggerty, co-founder and CEO of 8. "Digital platforms have allowed people to share their content, but platforms disproportionally profit, while creators retain little to nothing."
8 launches with a stable list of over 250 influential content partners including television networks, musicians, actors, visual artists, athletes, fashion designers, activists and philanthropists. Content partners include Usher, Donna Karan, Jamie Oliver, Patricia Arquette and Keep A Child Alive/Alicia Keys.
"Our launch partners are committed to restoring control to the creator to ensure their true worth is rewarded," said Sonja Nuttall, co-founder and director of influencers & advocacy.
The company has raised $4.2 million in seed funding led by Boris Jordan of The Sputnik Group and Frederick J.Warren of Sage Venture Partners.
8 is currently in closed beta on the Web and mobile web. A native iOS app is launching in December 2014, followed by Android and the ad marketplace in early 2015.
