What Publishers Collaborate With Ao3 Wattpad For Original Stories?

I've been following the fanfiction and original story scene for years, and while AO3 (Archive of Our Own) is primarily a fan-run platform for fanworks, it doesn’t traditionally collaborate with publishers for original content. However, Wattpad has been more proactive in partnerships. Wattpad works with publishers like Wattpad Books (their own imprint), which scouts and publishes popular stories from the platform. They’ve also partnered with traditional publishers like Hachette, HarperCollins, and Simon & Schuster to turn viral Wattpad stories into physical books. For example, 'The Love Hypothesis' by Ali Hazelwood started as fanfic and was later traditionally published. If you’re looking for platforms that bridge the gap between online storytelling and traditional publishing, Wattpad is the stronger bet.

AO3, being nonprofit and focused on preserving fanworks, doesn’t engage in commercial collaborations, but some authors transition their original ideas from AO3 to Wattpad or other platforms to attract publisher attention. It’s a fascinating ecosystem where digital storytelling meets the publishing industry.

As someone who’s deep into the online writing community, I’ve noticed how platforms like Wattpad and AO3 operate very differently when it comes to publisher collaborations. Wattpad has a structured program called Wattpad Originals, where top stories get adapted into books, TV shows, or films. Their in-house publisher, Wattpad Books, has released titles like 'The Cellphone Swap' by Terri J Haynes and 'The Bad Boy’s Girl' by Blair Holden. Beyond that, they’ve struck deals with major publishers—for instance, 'After' by Anna Todd was picked up by Simon & Schuster after gaining millions of reads.

AO3, on the other hand, is a haven for fanfiction and doesn’t monetize or partner with publishers directly. But many authors use AO3 as a springboard. They polish their original ideas inspired by fanworks and move them to Wattpad or Kindle Direct Publishing. Some even land deals with indie presses like Dreamspinner Press or small romance imprints. The key difference is that Wattpad actively seeks commercialization, while AO3 prioritizes creative freedom. If you’re an aspiring writer, Wattpad’s partnerships offer clearer pathways to traditional publishing, whereas AO3 is better for honing your craft without pressure.

Interestingly, some hybrid authors cross-post to both platforms—using AO3 for fandom engagement and Wattpad for original works. The rise of web novels has blurred the lines between self-publishing and traditional routes, making it an exciting time for storytellers.

I love how online platforms are reshaping publishing, especially with Wattpad’s aggressive partnerships. They’ve teamed up with entertainment giants like Netflix ('The Kissing Booth') and publishers like Penguin Random House for their Wattpad Books line. Stories like 'Chasing Red' by Isabelle Ronin got published through their system, and some even become international bestsellers. Wattpad’s data-driven approach helps publishers spot trends, which is why so many collaborate with them.

AO3 isn’t in the publishing game—it’s a nonprofit archive for transformative works. But its community often fuels original ideas. For example, authors might draft a AU (alternate universe) fic on AO3, then rework it as an original novel elsewhere. Some smaller presses, like Bold Strokes Books, occasionally scout talent from AO3-adjacent circles, but it’s rare. The real magic happens when writers leverage both platforms: AO3 for feedback and Wattpad for monetization. If you’re dreaming of seeing your story in print, Wattpad’s publisher network is the golden ticket.