ORLANDO, FL--(Marketwire - Jun 14, 2012) - IZEA, Inc. (OTCQB: [ IZEA ]) (PINKSHEETS: [ IZEA ]), the world leader in Social Media Sponsorship, announces Mario Lopez as celebrity ambassador to their latest platform, Staree. Lopez joins existing celebrity ambassadors Kendall Schmidt and Logan Henderson in contributing exclusive photos, videos, and updates to the platform in addition to endorsing Staree in various marketing and public relations efforts.

After unveiling Staree to the public at-large last month, thousands of social media influencers have applied to join the platform. In addition to Lopez, fans can interact with hundreds of other celebrities through interactive comments and questions or easily pass along exclusive content through various social media channels.

Since 2008, Mario has served as anchor for the syndicated entertainment news magazine show, EXTRA, and is also host for MTV's America's Best Dance Crew. He has enjoyed a long, successful career on and off the stage, starring in a multitude of television shows and movies including Dancing with the Stars, George Lopez, Nip/Tuck and Saved by the Bell. Mario is also an author of two books including Mario LopezKnockout Fitness and Mario and Baby Gia.

"Social media lets me connect with fans in real-time," said Mario. "Through Staree, I can show them what's happening through pictures and videos on my personalized Staree profile. In addition, Staree allows me retain control over my content and have the ability to work with sponsors that are relevant to me and my fans."

Lopez's Staree profile can be found at [ http://www.staree.com/mariolopez ].

"We're thrilled to welcome Mario to Staree," said Ryan Schram, Chief Marketing Officer, IZEA. "He is an icon in the entertainment industry and a great representative of the Staree brand -- charismatic, connected and entrepreneurial."

Staree allows users to post photos and videos from their mobile device or desktop, and share them with friends through Facebook and Twitter. Users make money from display advertising targeted to their content and product placement in photos and videos.

"We know how powerful the end result can be when pairing a well-known celebrity with the right brand," stated Michael Heller, CEO of Talent Resources, a New York City-based global marketing firm responsible for brokering Lopez's deal. "Mario loves connecting with his fans, which made him a natural fit for Staree."

Individuals interested in applying for inclusion in Staree can visit [ http://www.staree.com ]. Brands and agencies looking for sponsorship opportunities can call IZEA Client Development at 1-877-525-IZEA or contact the group online at [ http://www.izea.com ].

About IZEA
IZEA, Inc. ("IZEA") is the world leader in social media sponsorship, operating multiple marketplaces including Staree, WeReward, SponsoredTweets and SocialSpark. IZEA connects advertisers with social media publishers, helping them monetize their social media presence. The company has completed over three million social media sponsorships for customers ranging from small local businesses to Fortune 50 organizations. For more information about IZEA, visit [ www.izea.com ].

Safe Harbor Statement
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. These forward-looking statements are based largely on IZEA's expectations and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond IZEA's control. Actual results could differ materially from these forward-looking statements as a result of, among other factors, competitive conditions in the social media sponsorship segment in which IZEA operates, failure to popularize one or more of the marketplace platforms of IZEA and general economic conditions that are less favorable than expected. In light of these risks and uncertainties, there can be no assurance that the forward-looking information contained in this respect will in fact occur. Please read the full statement and disclosures here: [ http://izea.com/safe-harbor-statement/ ].