How to Get Brand Deals as a Creator in India — Complete 2026 Guide

Getting your first brand deal as a creator in India is one of the most exciting milestones — and one of the most confusing. This guide breaks down exactly how to position yourself, get discovered, and close deals at the right rate.

1. Build a Consistent Content Identity

Brands don't just want followers — they want a clear niche and a recognisable creator persona. Before approaching brands:

• Pick 1–2 content niches and stick to them for at least 3 months
• Establish a consistent posting schedule (3–4× per week minimum)
• Make sure your bio clearly communicates what you create and who your audience is

2. Get Your Numbers Right

Brands will always ask for your stats. Be ready with:

• Total followers across platforms
• Average views per video/reel
• Engagement rate (likes + comments ÷ followers × 100)
• Audience demographics (age, gender, location)

An engagement rate above 3% on Instagram or 5% on YouTube is considered strong in India.

3. Create a Media Kit

A media kit is a 1–2 page PDF that summarises your brand. Include:

• Your photo, name, and niche
• Platform stats with screenshots
• Audience demographics
• Past brand collaborations (with results if possible)
• Your rate card or starting rates
• Contact details

4. List on AAG Creator Network

Apply to AAG Creator Network and get discovered by brands who are actively searching for creators. Once approved, brands can find you through our search filters and send you direct collaboration requests — no cold outreach needed.

5. Set Your Rates Confidently

A rough benchmark for Indian creators (2026):

• Nano (1K–10K): ₹1,000–₹5,000 per post
• Micro (10K–100K): ₹5,000–₹50,000 per post
• Mid-tier (100K–500K): ₹50,000–₹2,00,000 per post
• Macro (500K+): ₹2,00,000+ per post

Don't undervalue yourself because you're "small". A micro-influencer in a niche like personal finance or B2B tech can charge significantly more than a lifestyle creator with the same follower count.

6. Negotiate Like a Professional

• Always confirm deliverables, revision rounds, usage rights, and payment timeline in writing
• Ask for 50% advance before starting work
• Clarify whether the brand wants exclusivity — charge extra for exclusive deals
• Don't agree to "gifted" collaborations unless the product genuinely fits your brand

7. Disclose Sponsored Content

ASCI (Advertising Standards Council of India) guidelines require clear disclosure of paid partnerships. Use #Ad, #Sponsored, or the platform's built-in "Paid Partnership" tag. Compliance protects you legally and maintains audience trust.