Instagram is evaluating a number of features to promote the meeting between content creators and sponsors, with the former expected to make money more easily.

What's new is that the app is running tests on what it has dubbed "affiliate stores" and a dedicated "partnerships" inbox. Affiliate stores are an extension of Facebook's existing shopping features, which are already widely available. These should allow creators to link to their products. And the inboxes should facilitate communication between creators and sponsors. Instagram's DMs (direct messaging) will have a dedicated "partnerships" section just for messages from brands.

Separately, the app is working on tools to match brands and creators seeking sponsorships. With the tools, creators can identify brands they are interested in working with, right from the app.

The tools are still at an early stage, with few people participating in the testing phase.