This project builds on a prior Manifund-funded communication pilot, applying the same viral growth strategy to algorithmic reform.

Project summary

In 2022, it took me only 6 weeks to build a TikTok page that reached 1.7M+ views, 1.3k+ followers, and 265K+ likes organically. (Tiktok • Instagram).

I want to apply that insight at scale for algorithmic reform.

This 2–3 month pilot will push a simple, nonpartisan message across TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube: Show people only what they subscribe to.

Content types

– Explainer shorts
– Street interviews
– Podcasts and long-form discussions with resonant voices in the field
– Clipped highlights (much like the manifund-backed theinsideview.ai)

My theory of change is that short-form content drives reach; reach drives participation; participation drives policy awareness and institutional change.
I’m aware of the irony of using TikTok and Instagram to push for algorithmic reform—but these are the arenas where public attention and political will are now formed. Any campaign for change has to meet people where they already are.

If this pilot succeeds, I will return to Manifund with a 12-month campaign targeting 10-15M+ views and 50k followers.

Additionally, I will publish a full report on LessWrong detailing analytics, qualitative feedback, and practical takeaways.

Context

Two decades ago, the idea that personalized algorithms and targeted ads could devour nearly every waking moment would have sounded dystopian. As an ex-software engineer and product manager, I have seen this become the default design pattern.

Most current voices in the space (1) target intellectual audiences with long-form podcasts, essays and policy panels. Their work is valuable but self-contained. 

True reform will require a popular movement.

Why Me

I’ve already demonstrated I can make content go viral (1.7 M views in six weeks), and I understand the technical and psychological mechanics of recommendation systems.

The few short-form initiatives aimed at everyday users (2, 3) rarely gain traction because they avoid the very viral strategies that make social media work.

Goals

• Pilot phase (2–3 months):

  • Reach 3M+ viewers across TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube.

  • Gather 10k sign-ups or endorsements supporting an algorithm-free feed concept.

  • Build a small but active base of early supporters (1-3k) and press attention.

• Full-year goal (12 months):

  • Reach 15M+ cumulative views and 20k+ subscribers/followers.

  • Secure 100k sign-ups or endorsements.

  • Make algorithm reform a widely discussed public concern.

This pilot will serve as the proof of concept.

Funding Sought

I’m requesting $7–10K for a 2–3-month pilot.
This covers a modest stipend, light equipment, and part-time editing help.

If at least $6.5K is raised, I’ll commit full-time; any shortfall or extra costs I’ll self-fund.

What are the possible outcomes for the pilot?

There are three broad outcome ranges I anticipate:

1. Clear success: Reaches 3M+ views, builds a visible base, and gathers 10K+ signatures.
2. Ambiguous/mixed outcome: Misses numeric targets but gains media or partnership traction.
3. Failure/low traction: Minimal engagement on all counts.

To avoid scenario 3, I will experiment with multiple formats from the beginning and use the help of editors to optimize for virality.

In any case, the pilot will produce valuable data for others in the humane-technology space.