Exclusivity Clauses Explained: What's Fair and What's Not

Exclusivity is often the most expensive part of a contract, yet most creators give it away for free. When a brand says you can't work with their competitors, they are literally asking you to turn down future money.

In 2026, you must know how to value your silence.

1. The "Narrow Scope" Rule

Never agree to "Exclusivity in the [Category] Niche."

• Bad: "Creator cannot work with any Beauty brand."
• Good: "Creator cannot work with any brand whose primary product is Charcoal Face Wash."

2. Pricing Exclusivity

Exclusivity should carry a premium.

• 30 Days: +15% of deal value
• 90 Days: +40% of deal value
• Category-wide (Extreme): +100% or more

3. Passive vs. Active Exclusivity

Ensure your contract allows you to keep existing long-term partnerships. If you are already an ambassador for Brand A, Brand B cannot ask for exclusivity that forces you to break that contract.

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Summary

Exclusivity is a "Cost of Business" for the brand and a "Loss of Opportunity" for you. If a brand wants you to be their exclusive voice, they must pay for the silence of your competitors on your channel.

Not sure if your exclusivity clause is too broad? Run it through our Contract Auditor.