But unless I'm missing something, there is no mention of giving people the ability to launch their own token.

There is a reason for that, there is no problem to solve.

Our goal with SMTs is to fill a niche we know for a fact exists from dealing with entrepreneurs and developers from outside the community who shared why they were refraining from adopting Steem.

Who in their right mind would invest in shitcoins SMT's, while STEEM is getting noticed everyday by people walking their dogs in STEEM Park.

And why did they refraining from using STEEM, don't want any associations or too embarrassed?