Forgotten Goldmines: Social Media Platforms Brands Shouldn’t Ignore in 2025

Marketers, stop sleeping on these platforms. While everyone else is flocking to Instagram and TikTok, there’s a treasure trove of untapped potential waiting to be explored on platforms that brands often overlook. Want to stand out? Be where your competition isn’t.

Here’s a deep dive into five “forgotten” platforms—complete with vanity metrics, user insights, and brand campaign success stories—that could be your next social media jackpot.

1. Discord: The Kingdom of Communities

What’s the vibe?
Originally built for gamers, Discord is now home to over 150 million monthly active users who create and participate in niche communities (called servers). The audience skews younger, with 70% of users aged 18–24, making it a hub for Gen Z.

Why should brands care?
Discord isn’t about vanity—it’s about intimacy. It offers brands the chance to build genuine connections through direct engagement. Think VIP groups, live events, or exclusive sneak peeks.

Brand Spotlight: Chipotle’s Virtual Career Fair In 2021, Chipotle leveraged Discord to host a virtual career fair, becoming one of the first major brands to do so. This innovative approach led to a 77% increase in job applications week-over-week and garnered significant media attention.

Key Takeaway: Discord’s community-driven environment allows brands to engage authentically with younger audiences through events and discussions.

2. LinkedIn: The Cool Professional

What’s the vibe?
With 774 million members worldwide and growing, LinkedIn is far from just a job board. Over 61 million senior-level influencers and decision-makers use the platform regularly, making it perfect for B2B campaigns.

Why should brands care?
LinkedIn’s ad targeting is unmatched when it comes to reaching professionals by industry, job title, and location. Its engagement rates have skyrocketed—posts with personal stories or videos see 2x higher engagement than traditional updates.

Brand Spotlight: HubSpot’s LinkedIn Integration HubSpot has enhanced its platform to allow users to manage LinkedIn ad campaigns directly, streamlining B2B marketing efforts.

Hot Tip: LinkedIn isn’t just for HR. Use it for storytelling, webinars, and high-value content to attract business clients.

3. Twitch: The Streaming Empire

What’s the vibe?
With 30 million daily visitors (as of 2024), Twitch is the largest live-streaming platform in the world. The audience skews male and younger, with 41% aged 16–34.

Why should brands care?
Twitch isn’t just for gaming anymore. It’s a hub for music, lifestyle, and creative content, making it ideal for brands looking to connect with a passionate audience in real-time.

Brand Spotlight: Wendy’s “Never Stop Gaming” Menu, in collaboration with Uber Eats, Wendy’s launched the “Never Stop Gaming” menu, featuring meals curated by popular Twitch streamers. This campaign effectively engaged the gaming community and boosted online visibility.

Hot Tip: Collaborate with Twitch streamers who align with your brand’s values. Consider hosting live Q&A sessions, product reveals, or charity events to connect authentically.

4. Facebook: The OG Is Not Dead

What’s the vibe?
With 2.98 billion monthly active users globally, Facebook is still the largest social media platform. While it’s not the shiny new toy, it dominates when it comes to scale and diversity of audience.

Why should brands care?
Facebook Groups are experiencing a renaissance, with 1.8 billion users actively engaging in them. The platform’s ad tools also remain one of the most powerful for targeting.

Brand Spotlight: LEGO’s Engagement with Fan Communities LEGO actively participates in Facebook Groups dedicated to adult fans, fostering a sense of community and gathering valuable feedback.

Hot Tip: Forget your Facebook Page—focus on Groups and community-driven content for authentic engagement.

5. OnlyFans: Beyond the Stereotypes

What’s the vibe?
Yes, OnlyFans is known for NSFW content, but it’s also home to 3.1 million content creators and 170 million registered users, many of whom are looking for exclusive access to their favorite creators or brands.

Why should brands care?
OnlyFans lets you monetize exclusive content directly, from behind-the-scenes videos to tutorials or limited-edition drops. The audience is highly engaged, with creators boasting 80% higher interaction rates than on Instagram.

Brand Spotlight: Bella Thorne’s Record-Breaking Debut, Actress Bella Thorne joined OnlyFans and reportedly earned over $1 million within 24 hours, showcasing the platform’s potential for monetization and fan engagement.

Hot Tip: Use OnlyFans for premium, paywalled content like masterclasses, behind-the-scenes peeks, or live Q&A sessions to build a devoted fanbase.

Conclusion: Dare to Be Different

In 2025, winning the social media game isn’t about chasing trends; it’s about creating your own. These “forgotten” platforms are full with opportunity for marketers willing to think outside the box.

💡 Want to create unforgettable campaigns? Let’s chat! At Mouse Inc., we specialize in creating real connections and using forgotten platforms for unforgettable campaigns. Or using popular platforms in memorable ways ;-).

Forget basic—let’s go bold.