In the digital hustle of 2025, Instagram remains king for influencer marketing, especially for creators in the United States aiming to expand their reach north of the border. If you’re an influencer in the U.S. wondering how to score brand deals with Canadian companies, or a marketer looking to tap into the cross-border vibe, buckle up. This article breaks down the real-deal game plan for Instagram influencer and brand collaboration between the United States and Canada — no fluff, just practical steps, legal pointers, and payment hacks.
📢 Why Cross-Border Collabs on Instagram Make Sense
Instagram’s algorithm doesn’t care about borders, but business sure does. The U.S. and Canada share similar cultures, languages (mostly English), and consumer habits, making brand collaborations between these two countries a natural fit. Plus, Canadian brands often look for U.S. influencers to crack the bigger market while U.S. creators want to diversify their sponsorships.
According to data as of May 2025, nearly 40% of U.S.-based Instagram influencers have collaborated with at least one Canadian brand in the past year. The trend is booming thanks to:
- Close economic ties (US dollar and Canadian dollar exchange rates are predictable)
- Overlapping social media trends
- Shared North American consumer lifestyle
💡 How U.S. Instagram Influencers Can Find Canadian Brand Partners
1. Know Where Canadian Brands Hang Out Online
Your typical Canadian brand isn’t just chilling on Instagram DMs. Check out LinkedIn groups, Canadian influencer marketing platforms like “Influicity” or “The Shelf,” and even Canadian Facebook groups for marketers. These are gold mines to spot brands actively hunting for influencers.
2. Slide into DMs with a Canadian Flavor
When reaching out, customize your pitch. Mention you get the Canadian audience vibe and have insights into their market. For example, a U.S. lifestyle influencer might say, “I’ve noticed your brand, Canada Goose, resonates well with outdoor lovers here in the U.S. and I’d love to bring that energy to my Canadian followers.”
3. Use Canadian Influencer Marketplaces
Platforms like BaoLiba or Upfluence support cross-border collaborations and have filters for Canadian brands seeking U.S.-based influencers. These marketplaces streamline negotiation, contracts, and payments in USD or CAD.
📊 Payment and Legal Considerations for Cross-Border Deals
Currency and Payment Methods
Most Canadian brands are comfortable paying in USD, especially for U.S. influencers, but expect occasional payments in CAD. Popular options include:
- PayPal (currency conversion applies)
- Wire transfers (watch for bank fees)
- Platforms like Wise or Payoneer for cheaper cross-border transactions
Always clarify payment currency and method upfront to avoid messy surprises.
Legal Stuff You Can’t Ignore
- Taxes: U.S. influencers must report income from Canadian sources to the IRS. Usually, no withholding tax applies if there’s no physical presence in Canada.
- Contracts: Use clear contracts specifying deliverables, timelines, content rights, and payment terms. A simple influencer contract template adjusted for cross-border clauses works best.
- FTC Guidelines: The Federal Trade Commission’s disclosure rules apply regardless of brand location. Always tag sponsored posts with #ad or #sponsored.
❗ Pitfalls to Watch Out For
- Time Zones: The U.S. spans multiple time zones, and Canada adds to that complexity. Scheduling posts or meetings needs planning.
- Cultural Nuances: Even though the U.S. and Canada are neighbors, subtle cultural differences affect messaging. For example, Canadian consumers tend to prefer a more modest tone versus the bold U.S. style.
- Exchange Rate Fluctuations: Keep an eye on USD/CAD rates since they impact your net earnings.
📢 People Also Ask
How can U.S. influencers find Canadian brands on Instagram?
Start by following Canadian brands on Instagram, engage with their content, join Canadian marketing groups on LinkedIn, and leverage influencer platforms like BaoLiba that specialize in North American collaborations.
What payment methods do Canadian brands use for U.S. influencers?
Common methods include PayPal, wire transfers, and platforms like Wise or Payoneer. Confirm currency and fees beforehand to avoid surprises.
Are there legal requirements for U.S. influencers working with Canadian brands?
Yes. U.S. influencers must report income to the IRS and follow FTC disclosure rules. Contracts should clearly outline terms, especially about payment and content rights.
💡 Real-Life Example: A U.S. Influencer Working with Canada Goose
Take Anna, a lifestyle and outdoor influencer based in Denver. She partnered with Canada Goose last winter for a campaign targeting both Canadian and U.S. audiences. Using BaoLiba, she negotiated a contract paid in USD via Payoneer. Her content reflected authentic storytelling that resonated on both sides of the border, boosting engagement and sales.
Final Thoughts
Cross-border Instagram brand collaborations between the United States and Canada are no longer just a “nice to have” — they’re a must for savvy influencers and brands in 2025. By understanding local market nuances, legal frameworks, and payment logistics, U.S. influencers can unlock serious value with Canadian brands. BaoLiba will continue updating the latest U.S. influencer marketing trends, so stay tuned and keep hustling.
