Trend

Trend.io operates as a marketplace connecting brands with a vetted network of content creators to produce user-generated content (UGC).

The company was co-founded in 2019 by Ramon Berrios and Zach Moosbrugger in Austin, Texas, before relocating its headquarters to Miami. Berrios, who serves as CEO, was inspired to start Trend after recognizing that while influencer marketing had potential, brands often lacked control over the final content. The initial concept was to have influencers create content and then sell the licensing and distribution rights to the brands. This model evolved with the understanding that anyone with a smartphone could be a content creator, not just established influencers. In July 2022, Trend announced a $3 million pre-seed funding round led by Flybridge, with participation from notable investors including Pharrell Williams' Black Ambition, Techstars Ventures, and the founders of companies like Twitch and LegalZoom. In June 2023, the company was acquired by Soona, a platform for e-commerce creative.

Trend's business model centers on providing a self-serve platform for brands to source custom photos and videos. It serves direct-to-consumer (DTC) and e-commerce brands in sectors like consumer packaged goods, fashion, and beauty that need a steady stream of authentic content for marketing channels such as social media, websites, and digital ads. The platform streamlines project management and guarantees 100% licensing rights for all content produced, which brands can use across any channel. For creators, the platform is free to join, and they can apply for projects from brands that align with their personal style. Unlike typical influencer platforms, a large social media following is not a prerequisite to join; the focus is on the quality of the content created.

The service provides brands access to a curated network of creators to generate a variety of content, including unboxing videos, lifestyle images, product shots, and testimonials. Brands can set up campaigns, and creators apply to participate. This process allows businesses to receive diverse, authentic content shot in various settings without the logistical challenges of traditional photoshoots. The platform handles payments to creators, which are processed as soon as the brand approves the content. This structure provides a cost-effective and scalable solution for content creation, with clients reporting that it is more affordable than traditional methods.

Keywords: user-generated content, UGC platform, content creator marketplace, influencer marketing, e-commerce marketing, digital advertising content, social media content, brand and creator collaboration, product photography, video content creation, lifestyle photography, creative marketplace, DTC brands, content licensing, creator economy, Ramon Berrios, Zach Moosbrugger, Soona, micro-influencers, content scaling