Internet for Growth Advocates for the Protection of Ad-Supported Markets in New Congressional Initiative
Internet for Growth Advocates for Ad-Supported Economy
On July 9, 2025, Internet for Growth, a national coalition representing small businesses and digital creators, made a compelling plea to the newly established Congressional Creators Caucus co-chaired by Representatives Yvette Clarke (D-NY) and Beth Van Duyne (R-TX). This coalition underscores the significance of protecting the digital advertising landscape which plays a pivotal role in sustaining the vibrant creator economy.
In recent years, the creator economy has emerged as a powerful force, boasting a current global valuation of approximately $200 billion. Projections indicate that this figure could exceed $500 billion by 2030. With employment in this sector having soared to 1.5 million full-time equivalent jobs, the creative industry is an extraordinary contributor to the U.S. economy, up from 200,000 a few years back, according to the Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB). The benefits of this expanded work sector are not just confined to creators alone; small businesses tapping into this economy are finding new revenue streams and opportunities for growth.
In their letter, Internet for Growth emphasized the indispensable role digital advertising plays in the success of small businesses and creators alike. Platforms such as YouTube, Instagram, Amazon, Spotify, and Pinterest are not merely hosting grounds for creative expression; they are the very backbone of financial support for artists and entrepreneurs who are transforming their passions into profitable ventures.
The letter advocates for several critical measures aimed at fostering a supportive environment for digital creators, including:
1. National Privacy Framework: A comprehensive approach that safeguards consumer privacy without restricting access to personalized advertisements crucial for creators and small businesses.
2. Opposition to the AMERICA Act: This proposed legislation threatens to dismantle ad-supported platforms, removing essential revenue streams for digital creators and limiting access to free content for users.
3. Rejection of Digital Advertising Taxes: Proposed taxes would impose additional costs on small businesses and hinder their ability to access effective advertising strategies, ultimately harming creators and local media outlets.
4. Support for AI-Powered Advertising Tools: Embracing innovative technologies that empower entrepreneurs to reach broader audiences and enhance their marketing efforts, which can significantly lower entry barriers and stimulate growth.
The coalition highlighted how often discussions of the creator economy neglect to address the vital role played by digital advertising, particularly personalized content that resonates with consumers. They cautioned that any policies that disrupt this ecosystem could detrimentally impact millions of creators and consumers alike.
By calling for robust legislative support, Internet for Growth aims to educate lawmakers on the challenges faced by digital creators and the opportunities that effective advertising strategies can present. Their efforts emphasize that the future of the ad-supported economy is not just about sustaining existing frameworks but also about leveraging new technologies and audience engagement strategies that will propel the economy forward.
As Brendan Thomas, Executive Director of Internet for Growth, notes, “Today’s digital landscape is synonymous with opportunity. Our coalition is eager to collaborate with Congress to ensure that the vibrant creator economy can flourish while still protecting consumer interests.”
The Congressional Creators Caucus serves as a promising platform where discussions on policies affecting the creator community can occur. As this dialogue progresses, the continued support of ad-based revenue streams may prove to be crucial for the sustained expansion of small businesses and the creator economy as a whole.
Internet for Growth remains committed to championing these issues, advocating for the rights and opportunities of creators and small business owners at every turn. The coalition provides a vital voice for those who rely on affordable and effective digital marketing to thrive in a rapidly evolving marketplace. By aligning their goals with lawmakers' visions, they are positioning the creator economy to grow sustainably and equitably, ensuring that creativity continues to be a driving force in economic development across the nation.