Marketing Intelligence
MBAMarketing Beyond Advertising

Definition

Creator Economy

The ecosystem of independent content creators who monetize audiences through platforms, brand deals, and digital products.

The creator economy describes the class of independent creators—YouTubers, TikTokers, podcasters, newsletter writers, Substack authors—who build and monetize audiences directly, bypassing traditional media gatekeepers. Brands increasingly engage this ecosystem as a primary channel for authentic, high-trust marketing.