Creators Are Moving From Brand Deals To Startup Equity

USACreator EconomyCreator EconomyInfluencer MarketingAffiliate MarketingWeRSM · September 26, 2026 at 10:20 PM
Creators Are Moving From Brand Deals To Startup Equity

A shift is observed in the creator economy, with creators moving away from traditional brand deals and towards acquiring equity in startups. This trend indicates a change in how creators approach monetization and brand partnerships, potentially altering the landscape of influencer marketing and social commerce. The United States is a key market where this shift is happening.

This shift matters for social commerce as it could lead to more authentic and long-term partnerships between creators and brands. With creators having a stake in the companies they promote, they are more likely to be invested in the brand's success, leading to more effective marketing and potentially higher conversion rates. This, in turn, could influence how social media platforms and e-commerce sites structure their affiliate marketing and shoppable content features.

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