User-generated content (UGC) is the lifeblood of modern marketing. It’s genuine, engaging, and often outperforms traditional advertisements from brands. But you already knew that.
The real question is: how do you choose the right UGC agency? Some agencies have a select group of Creators, while others cast a wider net. Some focus on influencer partnerships; others specialize solely in UGC.
This guide will help you navigate the landscape: understanding how UGC agencies operate, what to look for, and highlighting standout agencies in 2025. Plus, we’ll introduce Cohley’s Managed Services—a scalable alternative to traditional agencies.
A UGC agency connects brands with content Creators who then create authentic photos, videos, and reviews, primarily tailored for social media. The top agencies collaborate closely with clients to understand their objectives, offer strategic insights, and manage the entire Creator process.
Key features to consider:
A UGC agency might be right for you if:
However, an agency might not be ideal if:
If you’re considering an agency, here are six top contenders:
inBeat specializes in micro-influencer and UGC video campaigns. They handle everything from Creator sourcing and campaign strategy to content production and performance reporting. inBeat also leverages a proprietary influencer database to offer expansive access to Creators for niche needs.
inBeat is perfect for: brands seeking UGC video and that have specific Creator requirements.
inBeat isn't a fit for: small brands with one-off needs or brands looking for a wider variety of content to support their marketing.
UGC SHOP specializes in UGC video and professional photos to support TikTok and Meta. Ideal for one-off campaigns, they offer flat-rate content packages and fast turnaround.
UGC SHOP is perfect for: brands looking for UGC video and professional photos for TikTok and Meta, especially for one-off campaigns.
UGC SHOP isn't a fit for: enterprise brands seeking strategic guidance or a wide variety of content.
The UGC Agency stands out in its consultative approach, offering in-depth brand research and industry insights to guide the creative process.
The UGC Agency is perfect for: brands that want data-driven, strategic guidance.
The UGC Agency isn't a fit for: Small brands looking for one-off creative work or brands seeking professional content.
Based in the UK but serving brands globally, UGCers offers a wide variety of content types and a quick turnaround.
UGCers is perfect for: brands seeking to test many channels.
UGCers isn't a fit for: enterprise brands with very specific Creator needs on a long-term basis.
Growth Spurt's in-house studio and talent work best for B2B content, especially on YouTube.
Growth Spurt is perfect for: B2B companies seeking to drive YouTube engagement with product-centric video.
Growth Spurt isn't a fit for: consumer brands.
Specializing in B2B marketing but with UGC capabilities, Brighter Click is a great choice for B2B brands breaking the mold with traditionally consumer marketing tactics.
Brighter Click is perfect for: B2B brands exploring TikTok and Meta ads.
Brighter Click isn't a fit for: consumer brands.
Agencies work well for some brands, but they can feel limiting if you need to scale your content quickly. That’s where Cohley’s Managed Services comes in—a solution that cuts out the bottlenecks of traditional agencies while giving you access to a broader Creator network and streamlined workflows.
An end-to-end solution for enterprise teams with ambitious marketing goals.
Cohley Managed Services is perfect for: Enterprise consumer brands seeking a strategic partner and a wholistic approach.
Cohley Managed Services isn't a fit for: small brands with one-off needs.
It all comes down to your needs. If you’re after a small, curated batch of content, a UGC agency might be right for you. But if you need a steady stream of fresh, scalable UGC without the extra fees, Cohley’s Managed Services offers a smarter, more efficient solution.