The value of many platforms, including Manifold, come from the use of the platform itself. Youtube is valuable because of its content creators. They also give them revenue share from their videos.
Twitter is also valuable because of its content creators and is giving revenue share to them.

Several other platforms do the same.

Furthermore, many cryptocurrency and web3 projects give ownership to their communities through various means like airdrops.

Sharing ownership of the platform with the users encourages users to act in the interest of the platform, encourages them to continue to use it and provides more incentive alignment.

Resolves Yes if, by the end of 2024, Manifold has given equity and/or shares to a community member, not for investment or working at Manifold but for participation.