I just started using Kagi, and the main problem with a paid model is that people who cannot afford extra subscriptions are functionally locked out of the ability to do more effective research. I think Kagi should be used by as many people as possible, and the Guardians system on the Finch app is a great example of how that could be achieved. Kagi should have sponsored subscriptions for those who need them.
https://finchcare.com/guardians
The Finch guardian system lets you sponsor additional subscriptions for those in need, and people who need a subscription can join a waitlist. Some incentives exist to boost the Guardians program, and there are monthly reports released in the app that talk about how many people were successfully sponsored, giving the program increased visibility and helping to drive more sponsorships. If Kagi had a similar system, not only would that drive more users to Kagi, it would also help create a more equitable search experience.