Instagram is expanding access to Instagram Shopping to more types of businesses, including creators that want to connect with shoppers and sell their merchandise on the platform.

Noting that creators and small businesses are an important part of its community, Instagram said it knows that many have struggled financially since the COVID-19 outbreak. This update will allow many more people to turn their profile into a shop, enabling them to share, promote and sell their products on the platform.

Anyone wishing to use Instagram Shopping to sell off Instagram must tag products on Instagram from a single website that they own and sell from, so that people have a consistent and trusted shopping experience.

When businesses sign up for Instagram Shopping, they will be notified as soon as they are approved and ready to start tagging products. If a business is not approved, Instagram said it will offer a clear reason so they can take the necessary action or appeal.

New businesses will go through Instagram’s updated onboarding flow, while existing businesses will receive an in-app notification in the coming weeks with instructions about how to achieve compliance.

The updated requirements come into effect on 9 July in all countries where Instagram Shopping is supported.