As of 2025, there are more than 207 million global content creators who build digital influence through platforms like YouTube, TikTok, LinkedIn and Instagram. Creators are more than content makers; they’re economic engines. But while the creator economy is booming, the bridge between influence and infrastructure remains fragile.
According to Goldman Sachs via MBO Partners, the U.S. creator economy alone contributes over $250 billion to GDP. Adam Mosseri, CEO of Instagram, shared in Business Insider: “We believe creators are becoming more and more relevant over time. We are just seeing more and more power shift from institutions to individuals across the industry.”
U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) estimates there are 34.8 million small businesses nationwide, yet few policies formally recognize creators as part of that group. This is the untapped gap: Creators don’t always see themselves as entrepreneurs, and as a result, they often miss out on resources specifically designed to support business growth.
Influencers produce content daily, yet miss out on tools that could help them monetize, scale and build long-term wealth. To prevent what I call “Creator-to-CEO Failure to Launch,” here’s how creators can start using existing free partnerships right now to turn their visibility into viable ventures.
7 Essential Partnerships And Resources To Help You Build A Business In 2025
1. SCORE (Service Corps Of Retired Executives)
Why It Matters: With 10,000+ volunteer mentors, SCORE offers free one-on-one guidance to entrepreneurs across industries.
Action Step: Book a mentor at SCORE.org who understands digital marketing, pricing or scaling to review your business model, even if you’re just starting out.
2. Small Business Digital Alliance (SBDA)
Why It Matters: Backed by the SBA and Business Forward, this organization curates digital tools, templates and educational materials.
Action Step: Use their free business planning and legal resources to turn your content operation into a structured, scale-ready venture.
3. Local Chambers Of Commerce + Women’s Business Centres
Why It Matters: These groups provide hands-on workshops and funding guidance often overlooked by online-first creators.
Action Step: Attend a local business centre event. Even a one-time mixer can connect you to a lawyer, lender or advisor who can help formalize your brand.
4. University Innovation Centres (U Of H, Community Colleges, HBCUs)
Why It Matters: Community colleges and HBCUs now house innovation labs where non-enrolled creators can join pitch competitions, incubators or workshops.
Action Step: Search your city + “University Innovation Centre” and inquire about available small business or entrepreneurship resources.
5. Google Reviews + Business Tools
Why It Matters: A buyer’s decision is often driven by trust and validation, but many creators still lack visibility because they haven’t claimed or optimized a Google Business Profile.
Action Step: Create your Google Business Profile and start collecting reviews from collaborators, clients or brand deals.
6. Hello Alice
Why It Matters: With over $40 million in grants distributed, Hello Alice supports early-stage founders and women, veterans and creators of colour.
Action Step: Apply for funding, access business education and join their creator cohorts if you’re ready to scale beyond brand deals.
7. Verizon Small Business Digital Ready
Why It Matters: With over 1 million users, this platform offers courses, mentorship and $10,000 grant competitions.
Action Step: Enrol in courses and track your progress. Creators who complete modules qualify for mentorship and funding.
Real Voices, Real Impact
Gone are the days when we only viewed creators as entertainment. They’re digital founders. With the right partnerships, they won’t just gain influence. They’ll gain infrastructure.
Powerhouse Thought: Creators Don’t Just Need Platforms; They Need Partnerships
Entrepreneurs aren’t made when you hit six figures. They’re made when you set up your backend like it matters. If you’re already creating content, building an audience or selling a service, you’re not an influencer. You’re a business.
These tools are your blueprint to prove it.
Feature Image Credit: Getty
By Lovely Marshall
Lovely Marshall, Ex-Facebook Strategist & Eventbrite Entrepreneur helps creators & businesses turn platforms into profit via innovation hubs. Read Lovely Marshall’s full executive profile here. Find Lovely Marshall on LinkedIn. Visit Lovely’s website.
