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5 Ways to Blend Art and Entrepreneurship in the Creator Economy

By: Heather De Bernardi | 4 mins read |
5-Ways-to-Blend-Art-and-Entrepreneurship-in-the-Creator-Economy

Have you ever wondered about what’s next for creators and influencers as the Creator Economy continues to mature? 

I believe the answer can be simple: give creators the time they need to create and do what they love most while helping them run and scale like a business. Furthermore, how do we help those aspiring creators starting from square one, who are just getting their feet wet with content creation? 

Let’s delve into these questions with answers backed by the latest research and insights.

The creator revolution: A new era

The creator economy is booming as an estimated 50 million people worldwide now consider themselves creators. This shift is not simply a trend; it’s a revolution that’s redefining how we perceive creativity, art, and entrepreneurship.

Whether you’re a seasoned creator or a newcomer, there’s a growing demand for solutions that simplify the business side of creativity while fostering growth. But the challenge lies in creating an ecosystem that supports diverse talents and ensures sustainability.

Creativity takes time

In my view, the future of creator apps lies in empowering individuals to focus on their passion. It’s no secret that creative professionals often find themselves bogged down by administrative tasks that take away from their creative time. Imagine what could be achieved if that time were redirected toward creativity!

By streamlining these tasks and offering intelligent support, we can free up creators to do what they love most. It’s about creating a balance between art and business, passion and pragmatism.

1. Chart a path forward through experimentation and innovation

The journey to innovation is paved with experimentation. It’s a philosophy that resonates deeply with me and one that I believe holds the key to unlocking new potential in the creator economy.

In the fast-paced world of app development, especially for creators, the landscape is ever-changing. Sticking to tried-and-true methods might seem safe, but it often leads to stagnation. By embracing a test-and-learn approach, we can foster a culture of continuous growth and learning.

Experimentation isn’t about wild guesses or reckless changes. It’s a structured and methodical process that encourages us to challenge assumptions, explore new ideas, and learn from both successes and failures.

Take the example of A/B testing in app design. By creating two different versions of a feature and monitoring how users interact with each, we can gain valuable insights into what works and what doesn’t. It’s a simple yet powerful way to refine our understanding and improve the user experience.

2. Failure is not a dead-end but a valuable learning opportunity

It’s essential to recognize that failure is not a dead-end but a valuable learning opportunity. Thomas Edison famously said, “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.” 

This mindset encourages resilience and creativity, allowing us to iterate and evolve our ideas while treating the ones that didn’t work as simply part of the process – instead of a waste of time.

In the context of creator apps, a failed experiment might reveal unexpected insights into user behavior or uncover hidden challenges that need addressing. By analyzing what went wrong, we can pivot and adapt, turning setbacks into stepping stones towards innovation.

3. Experimentation thrives on collaboration

Experimentation thrives in a collaborative environment. By encouraging diverse perspectives and cross-disciplinary thinking, we can spark fresh ideas and uncover novel solutions.

In my work with creators, I’ve found that collaboration often leads to unexpected and exciting innovations. Whether it’s a developer working with a content creator or a designer brainstorming with a marketer, these intersections of expertise can lead to breakthroughs that might not have been possible in isolation.

As we move forward, embracing experimentation and innovation will be vital in shaping the future of creator apps. It’s not just about technology or features; it’s about cultivating a mindset that encourages curiosity, resilience, and collaboration.

By fostering this culture, we can support creators in new and meaningful ways, driving the industry forward and contributing to a vibrant and thriving creator economy.

4. Support the newbies with a compassionate approach

Newcomers often face barriers to entry in the creator economy – whether it’s a lack of equipment or technical know-how. So how do we help those just starting? We can offer guidance, resources, and community support tailored to their unique needs to nurture their talent and provide mentorship.


But let’s explore this vital aspect of the creator landscape a bit more.

Entering the creator economy can be both exciting and daunting. Challenges such as lack of knowledge, limited resources, and uncertainty about where to begin are common hurdles faced by almost all creators at some point. Understanding these barriers is the first step in crafting solutions that truly resonate with those just starting their creative journey.

One size doesn’t fit all, especially when it comes to creativity. By providing personalized guidance and educational resources, we can help newcomers find their own paths. 

Whether it’s tutorials on content creation, insights into marketing strategies, or advice on building a personal brand, tailored support can make the journey less overwhelming and more empowering.

5. Collaboration and community are at the heart of creativity

Community plays a crucial role in nurturing new talent. Remember that saying about how it takes a village? The same can be said for fledgling creators, too.

By fostering a sense of belonging and connection, we can create a supportive environment where newcomers thrive. Online forums, mentorship programs, and collaborative projects can facilitate interactions, encourage collaboration, and provide a safety net for those taking their first creative steps.

Technology can be a powerful ally in supporting newcomers. From user-friendly apps that simplify content creation to platforms that connect creators with potential collaborators, technology can break down barriers and open doors. It’s all about leveraging innovation to make the creative process more accessible and enjoyable.

Supporting newcomers is not just about providing tools or resources either; it’s about a holistic approach that considers the emotional, educational, financial, and technological aspects. It’s about empathy, understanding, and a genuine desire to see others succeed.

In my work with creators, I’ve seen firsthand the transformative power of compassionate support. It’s not just about helping someone create a video or write a blog; it’s about empowering them to believe in themselves, find their voice, and contribute to a vibrant and diverse creative community.

Looking ahead 

As we look to the future, the possibilities are endless. From personalized tools to community-driven platforms, the future of creator apps is bright and filled with potential. Some believe that the global creator economy already reached $104.2 billion last year, and the opportunities for innovation are vast.

So, let’s embrace the journey, the growth, and the innovation that awaits. Together, we can shape a future where creators thrive, innovate, and inspire. The research is clear, the trends are promising, and the future is ours to create.

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_About the author
Heather De Bernardi

As General Manager of Viral Nation’s Digital Products, Heather's had a long and successful career built on tech consumer products. With over a decade of experience, she unites creativity, technical expertise, and an unwavering commitment to innovation. Heather’s extensive background encompasses journalism, gaming, enterprise products, mobile apps, web3, and sports. She has been pivotal in shaping iconic AAA video game titles such as Madden, FIFA, Star Wars, and Battlefield, and she’s been a key player behind mobile disruptors like Game of War and TikTok. Her collaborations with organizations like the UFC, NFL, NFLPA, NBA, and WNBA have given rise to engaging games, products, articles, collectibles, activations, and commercials with marquee athletes and A-list celebrities.

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