• by Tyler Loechner  @mp_tyler, March 17, 2014

Izea on Monday launched an ad exchange for sponsored content on social media platforms, including Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Tumblr, YouTube and LinkedIn.

Izea has a network of bloggers, tweeters, and other “social media creators," such as YouTube stars. The exchange lets members of the Izea network distribute ad content through their own social networks. Advertisers can buy that sponsored content via automation.

Essentially, the exchange lets these “real human beings” -- people not affiliated with any specific product or brand -- sell their social influence to advertisers through a marketplace.

“What we’ve created is the modern day equivalent of product placement and endorsements through social mediums,” stated Izea’s CEO and founder Ted Murphy.

Advertisers can use the platform to “create an opportunity” -- meaning let people in the Izea network know they are looking to run a campaign -- and vet interested takers.

When a campaign launches, FTC disclosures will be included in the sponsored content letting readers know “that the influencer has been compensated by the brand,” per the release.