YouTube makes monetization program more accessible for creators

YouTube, the world’s leading video-sharing platform, has announced a significant update to its monetization program, aiming to make it easier for content creators to generate revenue from their videos. The company is lowering the eligibility requirements, a move intended to empower a wider range of creators and foster inclusivity within the platform’s monetization ecosystem.

Previously, the conditions for eligibility were set at a minimum of 1,000 subscribers and either 4,000 watch hours in the past year or 10 million Shorts views in the last 90 days. However, the revised criteria now include having 500 subscribers, at least three public uploads in the last 90 days, and either 3,000 watch hours in the past year or 3 million Shorts views in the last 90 days.

Once creators meet the new threshold, they can apply to join the YouTube Partner Program (YPP) and gain access to various monetization tools such as Super Thanks, Super Chat, Super Stickers, channel memberships, and the ability to promote their merchandise through YouTube Shopping.

YouTube’s decision to lower the barriers to monetization aims to support a wider range of creators, including those with smaller audiences and niche content. By making monetization more accessible, YouTube hopes to empower creators and foster a diverse community on its platform.

These changes in eligibility requirements will be implemented initially in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Taiwan, and South Korea. YouTube plans to expand the new criteria to other countries where the YPP is available.

Additionally, U.S.-based creators who are part of the YPP and have over 20,000 subscribers will have access to YouTube’s shopping affiliate program. This expansion allows creators to earn commissions by tagging products in their videos and Shorts. YouTube had previously introduced shopping-related features for Shorts to some U.S.-based creators in November 2022.

YouTube will be sharing more details about these new programs at the upcoming VidCon conference, where creators and industry professionals come together to discuss the latest trends and developments in the world of online video streaming.