Let’s talk about our approach to money
(hint: it includes a lot of transparency and anti-capitalistic values)
IMBY is a for-profit social enterprise with anti-capitalistic values. We reject the notion of hoarding wealth and resources and embrace collaboration and redistribution over competition while recognizing that we live in a capitalistic society that requires money to live.
We value transparency, compensating folks fairly, and community care.
Our business model operates on a sliding scale for memberships and speakers alike, focused on giving and receiving what makes us feel nourished, whole, and in balance.
Regardless of where you contribute on the sliding scale, IMBY all members receive the same access to member benefits.
When you become a member, join an event, or buy from the merch shop, here's where your money goes*:
Compensation
First, to compensating speakers and activity and workshop hosts. Everyone who is brought in to share their skills, stories, and expertise will be paid (or given the opportunity to forgo compensation if they'd like to contribute it back to the community). This is our top priority, and something we will not waiver on!
In addition to base compensation, for public events, speakers also are paid 50% of ticket revenue.
Staff Salaries
Next, to staff salaries. Right now we're a full-time team of one (hi! it's me, Sara!), and I don’t pay myself. This isn’t to be a martyr! I focus on my consulting work for income, and let the IMBY revenue stay in the business. I hope to take home a fixed salary in the (hopefully not-so-far!) future.
Overhead
Thirdly, platform fees to host our events, community, and website.
Creative
And finally, paying talented vendors, artists, and advisors that support our work, create resources for the community, and keep the backend going.
*Real talk: We recognize that our financial needs and priorities may change and shift as our community grows and evolves. Should these priorities change, they will both be updated here and communicated to all members. And if you ever have questions, please ask!
Our hopes for how we further redistribute money in the future
As our revenue grows and our fundamental needs are met, here are some of the ways we hope to continue to allocate funds. These may evolve and change alongside the community!
