From content to commerce

In the evolving landscape of modern business, attention has become the new currency. However, mere attention is no longer sufficient to sustain success. The year 2025 marks a pivotal shift where every scroll, like, and comment represents a micro-transaction in culture. Creators, once content with being digital celebrities, are now transforming into founders, curators, and architects of immersive, creator-led experiences. These businesses bring digital storytelling to life through cafes, tours, events, and tangible products, fostering a sense of belonging among consumers. The future of business lies at the intersection of content and community, where storytelling extends beyond the digital realm into real-world spaces that make people feel part of a narrative. This global phenomenon is not confined to major markets; it is also gaining momentum in the Caribbean. Creators like Jamel ‘Certified Sampson’ Sampson, Kyle Boss, and Gervail ‘Jr Lee’ Lee are turning digital influence into thriving physical businesses, from ice cream shops to comedy tours. The data underscores this trend, with Goldman Sachs projecting the global creator economy to reach US$480 billion by 2027. However, scaling this movement requires a supportive ecosystem, including stronger digital infrastructure, investment in innovation, and government recognition of creators as cultural exporters. As Caribbean entrepreneurs embrace this shift, the focus is on building creator-led experiences that will define the next decade of business. To aid this transition, digital strategist Keron Rose is hosting a workshop titled the Digital Revenue Roadmap, offering insights on monetizing digital presence and creating sustainable income ecosystems. The time has come for Caribbean entrepreneurs to move beyond products and craft experiences that resonate globally.