The UK’s creator economy has taken a significant step toward formal recognition. The IMTB announced yesterday that the Office for National Statistics (ONS) published its revised SIC 2026 framework, incorporating key wording proposed by the Digital Creators’ All-Party Parliamentary Group in its explanatory notes.
The update, welcomed by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), signals growing government acknowledgement of creator-led businesses as a distinct and valuable part of the UK economy.
For influencers, content creators, and digital entrepreneurs, the change could have real financial implications.
A clearer path to funding and support
Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) codes play a critical role in how businesses are categorised across the UK. They underpin everything from company registration to lending decisions and eligibility for government-backed support schemes. Historically, many creator-led businesses have struggled to fit neatly into existing classifications, leading to issues when applying for loans and grants.
Updated wording within SIC code 59.112 (‘Video production activities’) now explicitly includes “production of videos, including videos or vlogs for the internet (e.g. for content sharing sites).” This seemingly small change provides formal recognition of digital-first content creation as a legitimate business activity.
As a result, independent video producers, podcasters, and influencers should find it easier to access business finance, government grants, and other forms of institutional support.
Industry collaboration drives change
The update follows coordinated efforts from the Digital Creators’ APPG, alongside major industry stakeholders and creators themselves. A formal letter to Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy called on the Government to properly recognise the UK’s creator economy.
Later this year, the Digital Creators’ APPG will launch a formal inquiry into the creator economy, exploring further opportunities across finance, skills development, and government recognition.
Co-chaired by Feryal Clark and Lord Vaizey of Didcot, the APPG continues to position itself as a central advocate for creators, aiming to remove barriers to growth and ensure the sector’s economic and cultural contributions are fully recognised.
Why it matters for influencer marketing
For the influencer marketing industry, formal recognition brings legitimacy. As creators gain easier access to funding and support, the sector is likely to see increased professionalisation, scalability, and long-term sustainability.
In short, the UK is beginning to treat creators as businesses in their own right.
