Here’s an emerging trend that we at SNACK believe will gain serious momentum in 2025 and 2026: the rise of the regenerative influencer.

Influencer marketing isn’t just about reach anymore—it’s about impact. What started as sponsored posts has matured into a space where authenticity, performance, and purpose drive results. And now, a new kind of creator is gaining traction: one who doesn’t just sell—but restores.

As social, environmental, and business values shift, creators who embody regenerative influence—those who advocate for sustainable, restorative, and circular practices—are beginning to lead the way.

Whether you're B2C or B2B, this is the moment to rethink how you partner with creators and what kind of impact your brand wants to be part of.

👉 Need a refresher on influencer marketing basics? Check out our 2024 guide: Unlocking Success: Everything You Need to Know About Influencer Marketing in 2024

What's New in 2025?

1. The Rise of Micro, Nano—and Regenerative Influencers

Micro and nano-influencers continue to outperform on engagement and niche reach. But now, regenerative influencers are emerging as a new category of trusted voices.

These creators advocate for restorative change—from promoting sustainable products to spotlighting circular business models and community-first entrepreneurship.
They’re:

Educators on regenerative agriculture or circular fashion
Activists raising awareness around climate, equity, and social well-being
Business leaders building transparent, regenerative practices

Brands are partnering with them to not only promote a product—but also a purpose.

📌 Learn more about regenerative influencers at the end of this post.

2. Performance-Based Models Continue to Lead

Affiliate programs, revenue shares, and tracked performance metrics remain top-tier partnership models.
Creators are increasingly compensated for impact, not just impressions, and regenerative influencers are gaining traction as value-aligned partners who audiences genuinely act on.

3. Social Commerce is a Standard Expectation

TikTok Shop, Instagram Checkout, and YouTube Shopping have made social selling seamless.
Regenerative influencers are adapting here too—using shoppable links not just for conversion, but for conscious commerce.
Expect curated storefronts with product values front-and-center: local, ethical, sustainable, circular.

4. AI is Powering Smarter Discovery

AI tools are helping brands find influencers that align with both audience and values—making it easier to connect with creators who share regenerative missions, sustainable practices, or equity-centered goals.

5. Realness Still Wins

Highly produced content is out. Raw, educational, behind-the-scenes storytelling continues to lead—especially among regenerative creators whose impact-first narratives bring their audiences along for the journey.

What Hasn’t Changed?

Strong brand-creator relationships matter more than ever
Narrative-driven content still outperforms ads
Influencers need the freedom to be real—especially when promoting mission-driven messages

Who Are Regenerative Influencers?

A regenerative influencer uses their platform to restore, not just promote. They influence with intention and advocate for positive impact.

They might be:

A farmer sharing regenerative agriculture practices
A startup founder promoting circular business models
An educator or activist driving awareness on climate or community issues
A lifestyle creator inspiring more ethical choices in fashion, travel, food, or tech

This is influence not just as a funnel—but as a force for regeneration.

For example, Arizona Muse, a fashion model turned environmental activist, now uses her platform to promote regenerative agriculture and sustainable fashion practices.

Source: Arizona Muse – Model Turned Activist Championing Regenerative Agriculture

Why It Matters

We believe this emerging category of creator will only grow stronger through 2025 and 2026.
Audiences are demanding more transparency. Brands are being held to higher standards.
Influencer marketing isn’t just a sales tool—it’s a strategic avenue for positive change.

According to MENA Bloom, brands in 2025 are moving toward influencer collaborations that emphasize sustainability, ethics, and social impact—areas where regenerative influencers are uniquely positioned to lead.

Takeaways: How to Succeed in 2025

Collaborate with values-aligned micro, nano, and regenerative influencers
Make your product shoppable in-platform
Let creators lead with authenticity
Track performance, not just engagement
Use AI to identify creators who align with your brand mission

Influencer Marketing in 2025: What’s Changed, What Still Works, and Why Regenerative Influence is On the Rise