Influencers often find themselves navigating the ever-shifting terrain of content creation without the support enjoyed by more traditional professions. That's where the Creators Guild of America (CGA) steps in, committed to ushering in a new era for creators in the digital realm.
A Professional Service Organization with a Vision
The CGA, recently launched, distinguishes itself as a "professional service organization," setting it apart from traditional labor unions. While it doesn't function as a collective bargaining unit or endorse strikes, it offers an array of benefits reminiscent of union support. This nonprofit organization seeks to champion creators by providing a host of advantages commonly seen in established industries. From networking events to advocacy for fair compensation from brands and studios, the CGA is poised to make a significant impact.
Diverse Membership and a Powerful Vision
At the helm of CGA is a board that includes Justine Ezarik, known as iJustine, a YouTube trailblazer since 2006. CGA membership isn't confined to influencers alone; it's open to a broad spectrum of creators, including videographers, designers, photographers, and others involved in the entire supply chain of the creator economy. The rationale behind this inclusive approach is to recognize that content creation mirrors the film industry, requiring a diverse array of professionals to bring a project to life.
Inclusivity and Accessibility
Membership at CGA is attainable and divided into three distinct categories of digital creators: Media, Marketing, and Makers. For Media creators (influencers, online personalities, gamers), eligibility hinges on having at least 15,000 followers and earning $15,000 in brand deals within a year. Marketing creators (social managers, videographers, designers, photographers) can join if they are employed at an agency or have at least 25,000 followers across five managed accounts. Makers (founders, developers, producers) become eligible for membership upon raising $500,000 in venture capital or reaching 50,000 streams, downloads, or installations.
The Power of Project Accreditation
One of the standout features of CGA membership is project accreditation. In creative professions, credits serve as the currency that establishes one's reputation. CGA recognizes the importance of this and aims to create a certified public record of creators' work, independent of ownership or hosting. Similar to IMDb's role in the film and television industry, CGA's database will track and validate creators' contributions, crucial for establishing themselves as industry professionals.
Associate Membership and the Future of Creator Unions
For those who don't meet the eligibility criteria yet, CGA offers a free "Associate" tier. This tier provides access to the group's newsletters and certain networking events, making it an ideal starting point for aspiring creators. CGA's approach stands as a testament to its commitment to inclusivity and supporting creators at every stage of their journey.
A Beacon of Hope in the Creator Landscape
The CGA joins a growing chorus of organizations seeking to unite creators and set industry standards. It's worth noting that the digital creator space has often lacked the institutional support enjoyed by other industries. The CGA, with its diverse membership and robust vision, aspires to fill this void, striving for equitable pay, content ownership, royalties, and award recognition.
As PartnrUP, a platform designed to empower creators and influencers in the digital realm, we applaud the Creators Guild of America's mission to elevate and protect the interests of digital creators. Their efforts resonate with our commitment to providing creators with the tools and resources they need to thrive in this dynamic landscape. We look forward to seeing the CGA's positive impact on the creator community and its journey toward a fairer, more inclusive creator economy.