Revenue streams are interesting to consider with these sharing focused start-ups. If the values of these users shift to "collaborative consumption", does that decrease or raise questions with advertising as a source of revenue (ethically or effectively)? It seems that a possible underlying value of these ideals is less (or anti) consumerism. Would these users be more open to a 'fee for service' model? (That would be refreshing.)
Side note: Profounder.com is another example of a social lending platform that does not require a fee.
From what I can tell there are two camps that are converging: 1) capitalists that want to monetize off the 3rd Economy and 2) resource-based social engineers using a YC-like network of startups to start an internal shared economy. They are both experimental in nature right now and the future of which one will succeed will be determined by how efficiently either one is run. I don't think there's middle ground in the long run.
How would anyone here feel about a crowdfunding platform that would allow people to fund local startups with objects/space/skills instead of money in return for their product(s)? This way no money gets wasted and the funded items are returned (except for the ramen of course) if the startup closes up shop.
Side note: Profounder.com is another example of a social lending platform that does not require a fee.