October 19, 2026

Bob Coleman
Founder & Publisher

Main Street Monday: SBA Identifies NAICS Codes for YouTubers, Podcasters and Streamers 

The SBA has issued new industry classification guidance covering America’s content creators, directing qualifying social media entrepreneurs, podcasters, streamers and digital video producers to NAICS 5121, Motion Picture and Video Industries, for SBA lending and contracting eligibility.

The October 15 announcement provides the first federal small-business classification guidance specifically recognizing content creators. 

“For the first time, the SBA is recognizing these enterprising content creators within our small-business framework,” said SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler. “This historic guidance cuts through outdated classifications and gives qualifying creators greater clarity as they build businesses, create jobs, and compete and build for the future.”

From Social Media Accounts to Small Businesses

Content creators have long been eligible for SBA assistance when they meet program requirements. The challenge was determining which industry classification best described businesses that combine video production, distribution, marketing, and digital publishing.

The new guidance directs qualifying businesses to begin with NAICS 5121 and select the appropriate six-digit industry code based on their principal business activity.

Specific examples include:

• 512110 – Motion Picture and Video Production. Businesses producing original video content, including YouTube productions, online video series, documentaries and digital entertainment.
• 512120 – Motion Picture and Video Distribution. Businesses acquiring distribution rights and distributing video productions to television networks, streaming outlets and other media exhibitors.
• 512191 – Teleproduction and Other Postproduction Services. Businesses specializing in video editing, animation, visual effects, subtitling and other postproduction services.
• 512199 – Other Motion Picture and Video Industries. Businesses providing specialized film and video services, including stock footage libraries and film preservation services.

These are existing NAICS codes. The SBA announcement clarifies their application to qualifying content creator businesses.

The classification depends on a business’s principal activity, not simply whether it maintains a TikTok, YouTube or Instagram account. Businesses primarily engaged in advertising, marketing or other professional services may fall under different NAICS codes. Some independent freelance creators may instead qualify under NAICS 711510, Independent Artists, Writers, and Performers, depending on their principal business activity.

TikTok U.S. alone reports that more than 8.5 million American small businesses use its platform. 

What Changes for SBA Lending?

For SBA lenders, the guidance provides a clearer starting point for classifying businesses whose activities combine production, publishing and digital distribution.

A content creator seeking SBA financing may require cameras, lighting, production equipment, studio improvements, video editing facilities or working capital.

These businesses also generate revenue differently from conventional Main Street enterprises. A video producer may receive monthly YouTube advertising payments, annual sponsorship agreements, recurring subscriptions and licensing income from previously produced content.

Underwriting requires examining those revenue sources, including advertising agreements, historical platform payments, customer concentration, and dependence on third-party distribution platforms.