Wattpad

Wattpad is a global social storytelling platform that connects millions of readers and writers worldwide. Founded in 2006 by Allen Lau and Ivan Yuen, the company originated from Lau's vision to make reading accessible on mobile devices. What began as a platform featuring public-domain books quickly evolved into a vibrant community where users can discover, read, and write original stories across a multitude of genres. The platform's core mission is to democratize storytelling, providing a space for new and diverse voices to share their narratives and connect with a global audience.

Over the years, Wattpad has experienced significant growth, attracting a large user base, predominantly composed of Gen Z and millennials, who collectively spend billions of minutes on the platform each month. The company's innovative approach combines art and science, utilizing technology and data insights to unearth popular stories and identify emerging trends. This has led to the creation of Wattpad WEBTOON Studios, an arm that co-produces Wattpad stories for various entertainment formats, including print, film, television, and digital platforms. Many stories that originated on Wattpad have achieved mainstream success, being adapted into popular books, TV series, and movies, such as the 'After' series and 'The Kissing Booth'. In 2021, Wattpad was acquired by Naver Corporation, a South Korean internet conglomerate, further expanding its reach and resources. Despite the acquisition, Wattpad continues to operate with its headquarters in Toronto, Canada, and has expanded its presence with offices globally, including a second headquarters in Halifax, Nova Scotia. The platform supports stories in over 50 languages, fostering a diverse and international community of creators and fans.