
Business Insider is seeking nominations for the most innovative influencer marketers who work for brands. Submit your pitches through this form. Creator market...
Business Insider has opened nominations for its list of the most innovative influencer marketers working for brands in 2026. The outlet is asking brand-side marketing pros – those who directly oversee creator campaigns – to submit their names or nominate colleagues through an online form.
The call comes as creator marketing becomes a core channel for brands. US ad spending in the category is expected to reach $44 billion in 2026, up from $37 billion this year, according to a report from the Interactive Advertising Bureau. That shift reflects how audiences have moved from linear TV to platforms like YouTube and TikTok.
Some brands are already getting creative with the format. Gap has co-created products with creators like Julia Huynh and featured the pop group Katseye in ads. State Farm tapped streamer Kai Cenat for a reality competition show called "Gamerhood" aimed at Gen Z.
Nominations are open to anyone who has been in their role for at least six months, directly oversees creator marketing, and can show measurable results. Business Insider said it will weigh the brand's size, the work's impact on financial performance, and the nominee's broader influence on the influencer space. The final list will be based on the outlet's reporting and the nominations it receives.
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