Ello, a social network launched in 2014, aimed to provide an alternative to ad-driven platforms like Facebook and Twitter. The founders declared that users were not products to be bought and sold. However, in 2023, Ello suddenly shut down, leaving nine years of user content inaccessible. This closure was predicted by some who believed that outside funding and investor pressure would eventually lead to compromises. Despite converting to a Public Benefit Corporation, Ello raised significant venture capital funding and experienced changes in leadership. In its later years, Ello focused on catering to artists and creatives. The platform was eventually sold to Talenthouse, a company that ran design contests for brands.
https://waxy.org/2024/01/the-quiet-death-of-ellos-big-dreams/