How to Get Brand Deals on Instagram Reels Without 10K Followers in 2025

In 2025, having less than 10,000 followers on Instagram is no longer a barrier to working with brands. In fact, micro and nano-influencers are being prioritized by brands more than ever. These creators—often with just a few hundred or a few thousand followers—are landing paid collaborations because their audiences trust them and engage actively with their content.

Brands have realized that influence isn’t just about reach. It’s about connection. A creator with 2,000 loyal followers who regularly likes, comments, and saves posts is often more valuable than someone with 50,000 silent followers. This is why businesses now prefer smaller creators who produce authentic content and maintain a clear niche.

If you're hoping to land brand deals, the first thing you need is a clear personal brand. Your content should reflect your interests, values, and style—whether it's fashion, fitness, food, or tech. When your Instagram profile tells a consistent story, brands can immediately understand who you are and who your audience is.

Another important step is to treat your Instagram as a portfolio. Every Reel you post is a sample of your work. Keep your videos engaging, use good lighting, and speak directly to your audience when possible. You don’t need a professional camera—your phone is enough if you understand how to use storytelling and trends to your advantage.

You don’t have to wait for brands to find you. You can start by reaching out to small businesses that match your niche. Send them a short, professional message explaining who you are, what kind of audience you have, and how you can help promote their product. Include links to your most engaging Reels, especially ones with strong interaction or past product features.

Many creators also start with product gifting instead of paid campaigns. A brand may send you a free item to review or feature. If you do well and show you can drive attention or sales, that partnership can grow into a paid deal. It’s all about building trust with the brand and your audience at the same time.

In 2025, brand deals on Instagram are about relatability, not popularity. If you stay focused, post regularly, and keep your niche content sharp, you can start earning through collaborations even with a small but active audience.