I do think that it has been a problem before but tech has made it a lot worse.
In any case, I think we could try new things. Like the first people joining help with funding so that the admin team can grow. Then, when funding is no issue, peeps can come in for free. And those who actually pay for it get a founders badge or whatever. Maybe some extras. Because people who have more and invest more should definitely be recognized, just not with power (plutocracy).