Local TikTok creators are facing an uncertain future as the app’s status in the U.S. remains in limbo. With President Donald Trump’s recent executive order delaying a TikTok ban for 75 days, content creators are scrambling to prepare for the possibility that the app may soon be unavailable.

Creators Face the Reality of Losing Their Jobs

For many TikTok influencers, the app isn’t just a pastime—it’s a livelihood. With TikTok’s future uncertain, creators in Grand Junction, Colorado, are expressing concern about what the ban would mean for their income and online presence. Natalie Magee, a yoga and adventure enthusiast who has built a following on TikTok, says the thought of losing the platform is daunting.

“I was really nervous and still am, I mean we got it back, but for how long?” Magee says. “I just started posting, you know, throwing Hail Marys out there saying, hey, this is where you can find me.”

The fear of losing access to TikTok is not just about losing followers or content. For some, it’s akin to losing a job that they rely on for financial stability.

TikTok’s Unique Community: A Source of Connection

TikTok is more than just a social media app for these creators—it’s a space where they can connect with their followers in a way that feels personal and supportive. Karson Bell, who is known online as “Crowboy,” uses his platform to bring humor to his audience. He emphasizes the special nature of TikTok’s community, noting that it’s vastly different from other platforms like Instagram or Facebook.

“It’s a totally different community compared to Instagram or Facebook, and you can really see that as a creator,” Bell explains. “When I’m getting thousands of comments a day, I’d rather read the ones on TikTok versus Instagram.”

Shelby Cannon, a local realtor, echoes these sentiments. She turned to TikTok to market properties in western Colorado, and the app has since become a valuable tool for her business. Cannon believes that losing TikTok would be detrimental, not just to her business, but to the connections she’s made with her followers.

“TikTok’s attitude is completely different from any other social media,” Cannon says. “It’s way more supportive… it’s just kind of like a whole community that we’ve built together.”

Preparing for the Worst: Exploring Other Platforms

While some are hopeful that TikTok will remain available, others are already preparing for life without it. Many creators are considering diversifying their social media presence, with some expanding their efforts to platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.

“I need to expand other platforms if this is going to be my full-time job,” says Bell. “It was really kind of a kick in the teeth when I first heard about the ban. But now, I’m using this time to explore other entrepreneurial avenues, like creating my own beer.”

Despite their preparations, creators still express a sense of loss at the potential shutdown of TikTok. For Magee, it’s not just about the business side of things but also the emotional impact of disconnecting from the people she’s met through the app.

“You know, TikTok is not just losing income or followers. I think it’s losing those people that you connect with there as well,” Magee reflects.

The Clock Is Ticking: What’s Next for TikTok?

While the 75-day extension gives hope to some creators, the clock is ticking. If TikTok is not acquired by a U.S.-based company by the end of this period, it could be banned permanently. Talks have been ongoing about potential buyers, but as of now, nothing has been finalized.

For these Grand Junction-based influencers, it’s a waiting game—one that could significantly alter their lives and livelihoods.