As a new content creator, monetizing your social media can feel impossible. UGC (User-Generated Content) brand deals are a fast-growing, accessible path to work with brands. These deals help establish credibility and build connections, even without a large audience. Explore our guide below on how to get UGC brand deals and make the most of them. Are you a content creator interested in gaining more insight? Download NeoReach's 2025 Creator Earnings Report to learn more about how the industry is doing.

How to Get UGC Brand Deals

What is UGC and Why Do Brands Want It?

UGC is content made by real people, not brands. It includes social media videos, photos, product reviews, and testimonials. Brands use UGC to show their products are in demand and valued. This authenticity is vital for building consumer trust. The best part: you don't need to have thousands of followers to create UGC. Unlike traditional influencer marketing, UGC focuses on the quality of your content rather than your audience size. Even if you only have 20 dedicated followers, those 20 dedicated followers can help that brand grow, sometimes even better than an influencer with a million casual followers. Brands need the loyalty and community you build as a creator, and by teaming up with brands, you can get your name out there, no matter what level you are at. Now, let's look at specific steps you can take when it comes to how to get UGC brand deals.

Step-by-Step: How to Land the Deal

1. Build a Portfolio of UGC Content

The first thing you can do when pursuing brand deals is have a portfolio ready to go. Even if no brand has hired you yet, it is essential to have a collection of your best work. Examples brands can look to for guidance on how to match their content style to their marketing materials. Try to focus on content like:

• Unboxings

• Product reviews or tutorials

• Aesthetic lifestyle shots featuring the product

• Voice-over "TikTok style" ads

In creating a portfolio, you can generate sample videos or take photos of your favorite products. Taking time to show off your own personality to the brand through the content you create. When brands are looking for creators to partner with, they want someone with a clear personality and perspective who can attract more consumers. They want the authenticity you have to offer as someone who uses their product and can talk about it online with their audience. Outside of your own content creation skills, you can show off your social media presence, your pricing and services, and include all the ways the brand can contact you if they want to work with you. There are several platforms that you can build your portfolio on, such as Squarespace or Canva. All with ready-to-use templates to help you organize and structure the perfect look that represents you and the content you create. This portfolio is a vital step toward securing UGC brand deals. Are you ready for the Black Friday craziness? Check out our tips on How to Win Black Friday and Cyber Monday Marketing.

2. Link Your Social Profiles

Be clear that you are a UGC creator. Not everyone seeks these collaborations. State it in your social bios, website, and email signature to signal your interest in partnerships. Having "UGC creator" in your bio can also let you include a link to your portfolio. Making it as easy as possible for any brand to find your content and understand who you are. It may seem over-the-top to include this detail, but it will really help brands understand what content and collaborations you are looking to build.

3. Reach Out Directly

As a creator, you don't have to wait for brands. Pitching your ideas can open doors you never expected. While this can feel daunting, brands want creators willing to take risks and try bold ideas. Putting yourself out there is key to getting UGC brand deals. Here are some ways you can connect with brands:

• Make a list of brands that align with your niche and interests, for which you think you would be a good fit.

• Check out who else they have partnered with/their current social media style to get an idea of what they might be looking for.

• Find their company email or DM them on Instagram, TikTok, or LinkedIn.

• Send a clear and concise message. For example: "Hi [Brand Name], I'm a UGC creator and huge fan of your products! I'd love to collaborate and create authentic content that supports your brand. Here's a link to my portfolio. Let me know if you're interested!"

• Make sure to personalize your message to the brand/person you are reaching out to.

• Don't send a million emails to this brand, but keep showing interest in working with them, even if they don't reach out immediately.

Cold emailing or DMing can be daunting, but it's worth finding opportunities. If your style fits a brand, reach out. Passion and initiative are what drive brands to choose UGC creators. Just starting and looking for resources? Check out NeoReach's list of the Top 15 Frequently Asked Influencer Marketing Questions.

4. Join UGC and Creator Platforms

Another option for connecting with brands is in UGC and creator platforms. As a creator, you can sign up for platforms where brands seek creators. These are like job boards showing brands in need. Options include platforms such as:

• Billo

• JoinBrands

• Trend.io

• #paid

• Influencity

• Famebit by YouTube

These platforms often have briefs you can apply to directly, helping you find more options other than just cold emailing brands. These applications can also help you refine your portfolio by clarifying what brands are looking for in their content creators. Within this industry, there are also a ton of community and networking events to meet brands/other content creators. All of these connections can lead to opportunities, so make sure to maintain and stay in touch with everyone you interact with.

5. Deliver Professional Content

Once you get a deal, act professionally. Each brand has unique expectations, so clarify requirements and ask questions when it comes to content creation. Always aim for the best quality content possible. Besides quality content, meet deadlines and communicate clearly. Brands that enjoy working with you are more likely to return and refer you. Treat every deal with professionalism and kindness, as referrals are invaluable for understanding how to get UGC brand deals. Looking ahead to the holidays? Explore our list on why you should Start Planning Your Holiday Marketing Campaigns Now.

Final Thoughts

These steps may seem overwhelming, but the key to getting UGC brand deals is to be yourself. Authenticity should guide you throughout the process. Make sure the brand understands you, and you know the brand. UGC is an option for every creator. You don't need 100k followers to start making money with brand deals. With creativity, strategy, and consistency, UGC can lead to paid collaborations and valuable connections for your growth. We hope this guide on how to get UGC brand deals will be a helpful resource as you gain more experience with brands and UGC creation.