How this starting estimate is built
This calculator combines three widely-used rules of thumb into one starting estimate: a baseline rate per 1,000 followers that varies by platform, a niche multiplier (finance and tech audiences typically command higher rates than entertainment or gaming), and an engagement multiplier that rewards an above-average engagement rate and discounts a below-average one. The result is a reasonable opening range for a negotiation - not a guaranteed market rate, which also depends on usage rights, exclusivity terms, deliverable count, and how in-demand your specific niche is right now.
Why engagement rate factors in alongside raw follower count
Two accounts with identical follower counts can deliver very different actual results for a sponsor - an account with higher engagement is reaching a more active, attentive audience, which is why this calculator adjusts the baseline rate up or down based on how your engagement rate compares to a typical benchmark, rather than pricing purely on follower count alone.
Why finance, tech, and health command higher niche multipliers
Brands in competitive, high-value verticals (financial products, tech, health and wellness) are generally willing to pay more per reach, since their own customer acquisition economics support it - the niche multiplier reflects that real difference in what sponsors in each category typically budget, rather than any judgment about content quality between niches.
Why the result is framed as a negotiation range, not a fixed quote
A single calculated number would imply more precision than three rules of thumb can actually deliver - showing a range instead, and explicitly naming the real factors it doesn't account for (usage rights, exclusivity, deliverable count, current demand for your niche), keeps the estimate useful as a starting anchor for a real conversation rather than something to quote as if it were a verified market rate.