Consumer demand for alternatives to Big Tech’s social apps is heating up. Alternative social networks like Bluesky and Mastodon are gaining traction with people looking to leave X, while others are building ban-proof TikTok alternatives on open protocols. Similarly, many independent developers are also working on open, decentralized alternatives to Instagram, Meta’s flagship photo-sharing app with over 2 billion monthly active users. While none of the newcomers is anywhere near ready to rival Meta’s size and scope, their ability to even carve out a small niche within Meta’s shadow is compelling. They’re also arriving at a time when investors have…