Smashwords

Smashwords is a self-publishing and ebook distribution platform founded in 2008 by Mark Coker, based in Los Angeles, California. It enables authors and publishers to publish, format, and distribute digital books.

Authors upload manuscripts and use Meatgrinder to convert to multiple formats (EPUB, MOBI, PDF, etc.) and create metadata, pricing, rights. They can publish to the Smashwords Store and distribute to major retailers and library platforms via the Premium Catalog program. DRM-free distribution is common, though retailers may apply their own protections.

The platform offers author tools such as coupon codes, preorder capabilities, sales reports, and customizable series pages. Smashwords operates as an intermediary distributor; royalties come from retailers, with Smashwords retaining a portion as a distribution fee. It collaborates with retailers including Apple Books, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, and OverDrive, along with library vendors and other partners.

As one of the largest independent ebook distributors, Smashwords has played a significant role in democratizing access to publishing, providing a route for self-published authors to reach global audiences without traditional gatekeeping.