In an attempt to help influencers' work off the ground, Google is apparently experimenting with a new method of crowdfunding, called Fundo.
The events-focused crowdfunding service, to be available to YouTube creators, will allow them to set up digital meet and greet sessions and other events fans can pay to get access to.
YouTube Fundo Meet And Greet Sessions
Several YouTube personalities have been using the feature to set up small online get-togethers and live conversations with subscribers and fans, according to a report from Variety.
Jessi Vee, for instance, apparently used Fundo to host group chats with fans last month.
Meanwhile, Key Riqué, a Mexican YouTuber, used the platform to sell shoutouts to fans for as little as $4. On the other hand, KreekCraft charged $10 per ticket for fans who wanted access to a virtual meet and greet session.
Hannah Forcier, a style YouTuber, did a photo booth session with fans in which they got to have one-on-one conversations with the creator and posed for three photos together, for which she charged $40.
The experiment is being carried out by Area 120, Google's arm for more experimental projects. A spokesperson confirmed that testing in a statement provided to Variety.
"One of the many projects that we're working on within Area 120 is Fundo, an audience engagement and monetization platform for YouTube creators," the spokesperson said. "Like other projects within Area 120, it's a very early experiment so there aren't many details to share right now."
The Reason Behind Fundo
Fundo is clearly an attempt to let fans participate in such events and also allow YouTube creators to set up ways to grow their revenue and connect with their subscribers. Earnings from their Fundo events go directly to them so, as a FAQ document says, "they can continue to make you feel all the feels."
In addition to video chat and payments functionalities, Fundo also implements a queue system to assure the virtual meetings stay exclusive without frustrating fans.
"Events on Fundo can be very popular," the FAQ states. "Please try to be patient. The creator will get to everyone."
It's not clear how many creators are using Fundo at the moment, and whether Google plans to distribute it to other personalities in the future. The company did file for to trademark the service last month, which suggests it's got plans to use the branding moving forward.
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