How To Get Free Samples And Product Testing Opportunities Through Highlight

Oct. 9, 2025, 3:33 a.m.

Tags: highlights

Free samples and product testing programs offer consumers the chance to try new products before they hit the market, often in exchange for honest feedback. One such program is Highlight, a platform that connects consumers with brands in need of real-world insights. This article provides a detailed overview of how to participate in Highlight’s free sample and product testing program, based on the available documentation. It also covers eligibility requirements, the application process, and what to expect once accepted into the community.

Overview of Highlight’s Free Sample Program

Highlight, formerly known as Showcase Insights, is a product intelligence platform that offers consumers the opportunity to receive free products in exchange for feedback. The program is designed for individuals who are interested in trying new items from a variety of categories, including beauty, household, and food products. As a participant, known as a "Highlighter," you can request to try different products each month and provide your thoughts on them.

One of the key benefits of the Highlight program is the ability to discover and test products that align with your lifestyle and preferences. Each sample box typically includes around five products, though the exact number may vary depending on supply and demand. In addition to physical products, some participants may also receive gift cards or other rewards for their feedback.

How to Apply for Highlight

To become a Highlighter, you must first apply through the official Highlight website. The application process is straightforward and requires you to complete a detailed form that includes information about your preferences, lifestyle, and product interests. Once submitted, your application will be reviewed, and if accepted, you will receive an email invitation to join the community.

It is important to note that the application process can take time. According to one source, it may take approximately six months to receive an invitation after applying. During this period, there may be no communication from the company, so patience is key.

What to Expect After Acceptance

Once accepted into the Highlight community, you will need to create a Google account to access the platform. This account will allow you to view and request product testing opportunities that match your profile. After your account is set up, you will start receiving emails about available product tests.

The frequency of product testing invitations varies, but most participants report receiving 1 to 2 opportunities per month. These products are typically sent to your home, where you can try them out and provide feedback through online surveys. Completing these surveys is an essential part of the program, as it helps ensure that your insights are captured and used by the brands involved.

Eligibility Requirements

To participate in Highlight’s free sample program, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:

Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
Location: The program is open to residents of the contiguous United States.
Willingness to Provide Feedback: You must be willing to complete surveys and provide honest feedback about the products you test.
Ability to Create a Google Account: You must either already have a Google account or be willing to create one to access the Highlight platform.

These requirements ensure that only eligible individuals can participate in the program and that the feedback provided is valuable to the brands involved.

How to Stay Active in the Highlight Community

Once you become a Highlighter, staying active in the community is important for continued participation in product testing opportunities. This involves regularly checking your email for new invitations and completing surveys in a timely manner. Highlight emphasizes the importance of timely responses, as this helps maintain your status as a reliable participant.

In addition to completing surveys, you may also be invited to participate in longer-term product trials or more in-depth feedback sessions. These opportunities can provide additional insights into how your feedback is used to improve products and marketing strategies.

Feedback and Its Impact

The feedback provided by Highlighters is a crucial part of the product development process. Brands use this information to understand how their products are being received by real consumers and to make improvements before launching them to the broader market. This means that your input can have a direct impact on the quality and success of the products you test.

Highlighters often report feeling a sense of satisfaction from knowing that their feedback contributes to the development of better products. This is especially true for those who are passionate about specific categories, such as beauty or household goods, where their insights can help shape the direction of new releases.

Additional Opportunities

While Highlight is primarily known for its product testing and free sample program, it also offers additional opportunities for participants. These may include access to other product intelligence platforms, such as the Home Tester Club or BazaarVoice communities, where you can continue to test and review products.

In addition, some participants may receive gift cards or other rewards for their feedback. These rewards are typically provided by the brands involved in the testing process and are a way of thanking participants for their contributions.

Conclusion

Highlight offers a valuable opportunity for consumers to try new products and provide feedback that can influence product development and marketing strategies. The program is designed for individuals who are interested in staying up to date with the latest products and contributing to the improvement of new releases. While the application process can be competitive and may take time, the rewards of participating can be significant, both in terms of product access and the satisfaction of knowing that your feedback is making a difference.