"Few nonprofits are using this channel of awareness compared to companies," said Ms. Bailey, whose firm, BSM Media, specializes in connecting brands with mothers.
But connecting brands to consumers doesn't just have to be through text and recommendations.
Kik isn't just focused on connecting brands — though that's where most of the revenue potential lies.
"We operate the only truly global luxury digital marketplace at scale, seamlessly connecting brands, retailers and consumers.
Web startups like Endorse see an opportunity in bypassing the retailers and simply connecting brands and consumers directly.
Along with its ad sales team, the Times' management has charged its digital research and development lab to explore new ways to connecting brands to NYTimes.com's 17.5 million unique monthly visitors.
A Chicago-based startup called Apparel Media Group (AMG) is aiming to disrupt the custom apparel printing industry by connecting brands and consumers.
Another solution for reaching out to Influencers is using platforms that act as a virtual marketplace for connecting brands and Influencers.
Carmichael imagines getting a cut for connecting brands with the top creators the emerge from Slinger, and them shooting compelling sponsored content.
uKnow's technology uses semantic analysis and natural language processing to identify the content best suited to connecting brands with their audience.
