Top Internet and Social Media Influencers Who Are Entrepreneurs

In the digital age, internet and social media influencers have expanded their reach beyond content creation into the world of entrepreneurship. These individuals have leveraged their large followings and personal brands to launch businesses, develop products, and build successful enterprises. They not only inspire millions through their content but also demonstrate how powerful personal branding can be when used to drive business success. Here are some top influencers who have successfully transitioned into entrepreneurship.

1. Gary Vaynerchuk – VaynerMedia

Gary Vaynerchuk, known as Gary Vee, is a prolific entrepreneur and internet personality who built his career on social media. As the founder of VaynerMedia, a digital marketing agency, Vaynerchuk has demonstrated how an authentic online presence can be transformed into a powerful business venture. He continues to share insights on entrepreneurship, personal branding, and marketing through platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and Twitter.

Why Follow:

Gary Vee is known for his no-nonsense advice on building businesses and personal brands. His journey from building his family’s wine business to becoming a marketing mogul provides valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs.

2. Chiara Ferragni – The Blonde Salad

Chiara Ferragni, an Italian fashion influencer, turned her popular fashion blog, The Blonde Salad, into a multi-million dollar business. She expanded her influence into a fashion and lifestyle brand, launching a successful clothing and accessories line. Ferragni’s entrepreneurial success shows how influencers can effectively monetize their personal brands and create product lines that resonate with their audience.

Why Follow:

Ferragni’s story illustrates the power of transitioning from influencer to brand owner, and her work in the fashion industry serves as a model for influencers looking to build their own businesses.

3. Huda Kattan – Huda Beauty

Huda Kattan is a beauty influencer turned entrepreneur who built Huda Beauty, a globally recognized cosmetics brand. Starting as a beauty blogger and makeup artist, Kattan leveraged her expertise and large social media following to create a beauty empire. Her company is now a top player in the global beauty industry, with a wide range of makeup and skincare products.

Why Follow:

Kattan’s success highlights the importance of finding a niche and building a product line that aligns with your personal brand. Aspiring beauty entrepreneurs can learn from her ability to turn social media influence into a thriving global business.

4. Jay Shetty – Think Like a Monk

Jay Shetty, a former monk turned motivational speaker and content creator, is a prime example of how personal development influencers can translate their knowledge into business success. With a strong presence on YouTube and social media, Shetty has launched a best-selling book, Think Like a Monk, and offers courses, workshops, and coaching through his personal brand.

Why Follow:

Shetty’s content on mindfulness, personal growth, and entrepreneurship has inspired millions. His ability to monetize his content through books, courses, and speaking engagements provides a blueprint for influencers in the personal development space.

5. Emma Chamberlain – Chamberlain Coffee

Emma Chamberlain is a YouTube sensation and Gen Z icon who expanded her personal brand by launching Chamberlain Coffee, a specialty coffee brand. Known for her relatable and unfiltered content, Chamberlain built a strong connection with her audience, which translated into the success of her business ventures.

Why Follow:

Chamberlain’s ability to connect with a younger audience and turn her personal interests into a successful business highlights the importance of authenticity in entrepreneurship. Her business acumen shows how influencers can align personal passions with business opportunities.

Influencers Who Inspire Entrepreneurship

The rise of social media influencers who have successfully transitioned into entrepreneurship is a testament to the power of personal branding and digital platforms. These influencers have shown that leveraging an online presence and audience engagement can result in successful business ventures, from fashion lines to digital marketing agencies and beyond.

If you're looking for more entrepreneurial inspiration, check out The Top Startup Founders to Follow for Inspiration. Learning from both influencers and startup founders can provide valuable insights for growing your own business or personal brand.