Which Instagram surface allows a business to connect with individuals or groups of people?

The correct answer is 'Direct' because this feature on Instagram enables one-on-one or group messaging between users, facilitating direct communication. Businesses can utilize Direct to connect personally with customers, answer questions, provide support, and establish a more intimate relationship with their audience. Through Direct messages, businesses can also initiate conversations, share exclusive content, or clarify inquiries, creating a more interactive and personalized experience.

The Feed, while an important aspect of Instagram for sharing posts and engaging with followers, operates more as a public showcase of content rather than a direct communication channel. The Timeline is not a term generally associated with Instagram; it's more commonly related to Facebook, where users chronologically display their updates. The Grid refers to the layout of posts on an Instagram profile, which is effective for visual branding but does not facilitate direct communication like the Direct feature does.