Entrepreneurship in the Adult Entertainment Industry: Insights from OnlyFans Content Creators

Description

This research project, based at the University of Leeds, examines adult content creation as a form of digital entrepreneurship, with a particular focus on creators active on platforms such as OnlyFans.

Many adult content creators operate complex online businesses, manage audiences, develop marketing strategies, and make long-term decisions about income, growth, and sustainability. The aim of the project is to better understand these experiences and to represent adult content creation as skilled, professional entrepreneurial work.

Project focus

The study explores topics including:

• Entrepreneurial motivations for starting an adult content creator business
• How creators build, manage, and grow their business on digital platforms
• Skills, competencies, and strategies that support success
• How creators interact with the wider adult content creator economy

The project contributes to a broader academic understanding of entrepreneurship in digital and platform-based industries.

Participation in the research

As part of the study, adult content creators are invited to participate in a confidential one-to-one interview.

• Interviews last approximately 45 to 60 minutes
• Conducted online at a time that suits the participant
• Participants decide what they are comfortable discussing

Compensation for participation can be discussed. Participants do not need to share their real name or online identity. All data is handled securely and confidentially in line with the University of Leeds data protection and research ethics standards. The project has received full ethical approval from the University of Leeds.

Who can take part

Anyone currently creating adult content on OnlyFans or comparable platforms, regardless of experience level or audience size.

If you are interested in participating, or would like more information about the project, please feel free to get in touch.

Outputs and media coverage

• “OnlyFans tops $3bn valuation in talks to sell minority stake”, The Observer, 18 April 2026
• “What OnlyFans reveals on creator economy”, LinkedIn article by Professor Koen Pauwels, Northeastern University, 25 April 2026

Contact

If you are interested in hearing more about the project or would like to collaborate, please get in touch with Dr Vita Kadile.                                            

Connect with us here: 

• Dr Maximilian Gerrath
• Dr Vita Kadile
• Dr Alessandro Biraglia