Types of Expert Networks and Their Business Models

It has been estimated that in 2024, the size of the global expert network market reached a record US$3.8 billion, representing an almost $1.3 billion increase in just one year.

Moreover, forecasts indicate that this will more than triple by 2033 to US$12.52 billion, according to Business Research Insights.

One of the key reasons for such impressive growth is that information is an extremely valuable resource that businesses constantly invest in, which has led to there currently being more than 130 expert networks offering various services and focusing on different industries, including those that are the most niche.

In early 2025, there are various types of expert networks available, including those that are traditional, AI-driven and tech-enabled, niche and industry-specific, freelance, and DIY, as well as marketplaces.

All these networks provide expert knowledge and connections to consulting firms, private equities, investment firms, corporations, market research companies, in fact virtually any kind of organization.

While it may appear difficult to navigate through the multitude of expert networks, we at ExpertNetworkCalls have collated vital information about every option out there that can be found on our Expert Networks Hub.

Let’s dive deeper into each type of expert network and their business model.

1. Traditional Expert Networks

As the most popular today, traditional expert networks offer their clients consultations with experts by connecting clients with professionals in certain fields.

These engagements can take the form of one-on-one phone consultations or virtual meetings. Traditional ENs focus on expert matching and charge clients per call or project.

Examples:

1. GLG (Gerson Lehrman Group) – the largest expert network with around one million experts across various industries.
2. Atheneum – a global expert network with services centered around its Research-as-a-Service (RaaS) model.

2. AI-Driven & Tech-Enabled Expert Networks

These expert networks leverage AI and machine learning as well as utilizing advanced digital platforms to carry out expert sourcing.

With the help of AI algorithms, vast expert databases can be analyzed to examine expertise relevance and ultimately provide a list of experts who are considered to be the best fit.

Using AI and related technologies saves time, but a human touch is also needed for ethical considerations to evaluate an expert’s credibility and to ensure smooth communication.

Examples:

1. NewtonX – a B2B research company that specializes in expert network services and leverages a proprietary AI-driven search engine.
2. ProSapient – an expert network that invests in AI-driven technology and workflow automation.

3. Niche and Industry-Specific Expert Networks

ENs in this category focus on a specific industry (or several interrelated industries), disciplines, or regions, which allows them to provide an in-depth perspective on certain aspects and more unique experts who are different from that which larger expert networks can offer, although this may take more time.

These networks can be particularly useful in niche fields such as biotech, fintech, industrial manufacturing, and renewable energy, which require knowledge of complex regulations and a high level of technical expertise.

Examples:

1. Inlightened – a specialized expert network focusing on the healthcare and life sciences sectors.
2. Candour – a specific expert network that focuses on the energy, utilities, and industrial sectors.
3. BTHT – a specialized expert network serving the healthcare and life sciences industries.

4. Freelance and DIY Networks

Freelance and Do-it-Yourself (DIY) expert networks are decentralized platforms through which businesses can contact independent experts directly, thus eliminating the need for any intermediary assistance.

These networks are therefore cost-effective, flexible, and scalable alternatives to full-service expert networks. However, there are some drawbacks for clients, including the need to conduct due diligence to verify the quality of the expertise.

Examples:

1. Clarity.fm – an expert network and online marketplace that primarily serves small business owners and entrepreneurs.
2. Zintro – a network that posts a selection of ongoing projects to which experts can apply and show their relevance.

5. Marketplaces

Expert network marketplaces serve as aggregators that connect businesses with one or several expert networks through a single platform, which helps to centralize workflows, streamline projects and ultimately gain real-time insights.

By leveraging marketplaces, companies can engage with multiple networks to benefit from access to a broader pool of experts across various networks.

Examples:

1. ENC – a platform that allows several expert networks to be engaged without a subscription or prepayment.
2. Inex One – a marketplace for expert networks and survey providers.

Final word

Whether a traditional, AI-driven, niche, freelance network, or marketplace, each type of expert network has its own advantages to ensure that client organizations can gain the expertise they require to grow and remain competitive. As the demand for specialized knowledge increases, expert networks will continue to innovate, shaping the future of decision-making and strategy.