Why brands send free product
Brands want real people using their product on camera. Sending product is cheaper than a shoot, and the best videos become ads. In return, brands expect a post or video within a set time after the product arrives.
Where to find seeding programs
- Brand creator programs: look for “creators”, “ambassadors” or “collab” links in a brand's site footer or bio.
- Brand directories: the SQWAD brand directory lists brands that send free product and pay commission, with the offer, open spots and posting deadline shown up front.
- Direct pitches: smaller brands often say yes to a short, specific pitch. See how to pitch brands.
How to get approved
- Lead with your best video. Brands decide on it more than anything else.
- Fit the brand. Apply to products you'd actually use and film.
- Fill everything in. Sizes, address and handles. Incomplete applications get skipped.
- Answer their question well. One or two specific sentences beat a long paragraph.
Apply to brands in one tap. A free SQWAD creator profile saves your socials, best videos, sizes and shipping address once. Use it to quick apply to any brand on SQWAD, and let brands that fit your niche invite you.
What brands expect in return
- A post or video within the deadline, usually counted from delivery.
- Following the brief, if there is one.
- Sharing the link so they can find and approve it.
- Sometimes permission to use your video in ads.
Read the terms before you accept: free product, buy and refund, and commission programs all work differently.
Turn free product into paid work
Free product is a starting point. Post on time, make videos that perform, and ask about commission or paid videos after a couple of successful collabs. Programs with commission let you earn on the sales your link and videos drive. When you're ready for paid work, see how to find paid UGC jobs.
New to all of this? Start with how to become a UGC creator.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to post if a brand sends me free product?
If you accepted through a creator program, yes. Most programs require a post within a set number of days after delivery.
Can I get free products with a small following?
Yes. Many programs care more about your videos and fit than follower count.
Is free product taxable?
In many places, product received in exchange for content can count as income. Check the rules where you live or ask a tax professional.