Group Black's Travis Montaque Debuts a New Network to Shape a More Equitable Creator Economy

Group Black's Travis Montaque Debuts a New Network to Shape a More Equitable C

By Shannon Miller

Travis Montaque Richelieu Dennis

IN 2021, Travis Montaque launched Group Black to address inequity in media. Now, with a new venture called Crater, the entrepreneur and Adweek’s Media Executive of the Year aims to make a similarly indelible mark on the fast-growing creator economy.

Recently, Montaque introduced a new network geared towards providing key support to creators who are positioned to take the next step in their creative careers. Through Crater, the founder says they will have opportunities to build professional relationships with fellow creators, launch their “next wave” ideas and secure the kind of funding that will help them maintain sustainable careers.

Additionally, the network will partner with Group Black to amplify the works of its members.

“Crater is a first-of-its-kind creator network where the next wave of culture is made and monetized,” Montaque explained to Adweek. “We’re really trying to change the economic situation of these creators and drive opportunity for them.”

Montaque is joined Sarah Aitken, who will serve as CEO. According to Aitken, the network is mainly galvanized to provide access “past the wall” that largely keeps creators from securing success beyond a project-to-project basis—especially when it comes to marginalized creatives, who routinely experience substantial gaps in pay and opportunities.

“There’s culture to be unlocked beyond that wall and there’s value in that culture for brands, media, consumers and everybody else around the

Creator Economy

edges,” said Aitken. “And obviously, we want to create a massive amount of value for the creators in that moment.”

Creator, meet village

Upon its launch, Crater boasts of an inaugural group of popular creators who have signed on as official members, including Dale Moss, Yung BBQ, Swan Sit, Grace Africa, and JRich ENT. Moss is currently working with Crater to produce a documentary about the impact of the Special Olympics through his company, Moss Martin Media.

“Everyone wants to know that they have a voice that matters, and being a part of a network whose efforts are reshaping the face of the creator landscape is a humbling thing,” said Moss in a statement. “I understand the responsibility that comes with this opportunity, and I look forward to using Crater to continue to advance opportunities for those that come after me through my work.” https://www.adweek.com/creativity/group-blackstravis-montaque-debuts-a-new-network-to-shapea-more-equitable-creator-economy