@malgorithm's answer is fantastic, just wanted to add some side-comments...
> How am I assured [?]
You're not, even if they start making money. Sucks, but true.
> You guys should be taking my money
One way to pay, if you want to help ensure their success & longevity, is to evangelize for them, and get other people hooked on their product. Getting other people hooked on it like you are and seeing the potential and get over the adoption humps... that's valuable! They're not taking money because it raises the barrier to entry, and growth is most important. Pay them by helping them grow.