YouTube Partner Network: Could You Profit from YouTube?

There are over 2 billion YouTube users, which equates to 79% of all internet users. 500 hours of videos are uploaded to YouTube every minute. Half of the users access Youtube via their mobile device. Many believe that applications like YouTube and Netflix will soon signal the end of television due to the amount of content that is produced on both sites. 

The YouTube Partner Program (YPP) has evolved significantly since its inception in 2007, playing a pivotal role in transforming YouTube from a video-sharing platform into a powerful monetization engine for content creators.

Early Days and AdSense Integration

In its early years, YouTube relied solely on advertising revenue to support its operations. In 2007, the company introduced the YPP, enabling select creators to display targeted ads on their videos and earn a share of the advertising revenue generated. This marked a turning point for YouTube, as it began to recognize the potential of content creators to drive viewership and advertising revenue.

Content ID and Copyright Protection

As the YPP gained traction, the need for effective copyright protection became increasingly important. In 2009, YouTube launched Content ID, a system that identifies and matches copyrighted audio and video content across the platform. This technology enabled YouTube to protect creators’ intellectual property and address copyright infringement issues effectively.

Monetization Expansion and Ad Options

The YPP continued to evolve, expanding monetization opportunities for creators. In 2012, YouTube introduced mid-roll ads, allowing creators to insert ads at specific points in their videos, further maximizing their revenue potential. Additionally, YouTube expanded its monetization options to include sponsorships and merchandise sales, providing creators with alternative revenue streams.

Creator Support and Community Building

Recognizing the growing importance of creators, YouTube established the Creator Academy in 2014. This comprehensive educational hub provides creators with resources, training, and mentorship to help them develop their skills, grow their audiences, and monetize their content effectively.

How Does YouTube Work?

YouTube is a free website where users can both upload and watch content free of charge. 

YouTube heavily relies on advertisements in its videos for revenue. Thankfully, there are one billion active users per month, so YouTube doesn’t find it difficult to find advertisers. 

When an advertiser pays to place an ad in a creator’s video, the amount of money is split between YouTube and the channel’s owner. 

At the end of the day, it’s the creators’ content that brings the audience to the platform, so it is fair that they get a piece of the pie. Also, YouTube encourages better video content by allowing video uploaders to make money by becoming YouTube partners. Better content means a higher number of active users and viewers, which eventually makes YouTube more powerful, and brings in more advertising revenues.

What Is the YouTube Partner Programme?

The YouTube Partner programme was created to optimise the quality of the content present on YouTube. For the platform, this is a top priority. It makes it a safe environment for advertisers and viewers alike by eliminating spammers, impersonators, and bad actors abusing YouTube’s monetisation policies. If YouTube gives money to anyone who uploads videos on the platform, soon enough, YouTube will be a spam website and its audience will escape. 

For that reason, YouTube has set up two eligibility requirements to qualify for applying to be a YouTube partner. Number one, your channel must reach 4000 watch hours during the 12 months preceding your application. Number two, your channel must have at least one thousand subscribers. Your country should be one of those that programme is available.

The 1,000 subscribers have to be legitimate accounts that have hit the subscribe button. If YouTube finds out someone created fake accounts to boost numbers, or that someone went to an illegal website and purchased fake subscribers, YouTube will not only not count these subscribers, but it will ban the creator’s account as well. It’s important to not test YouTube on this as they are very good at identifying fake subscribers.

YouTube is also capable of tracking your watch time as well as the subscribers. A user can not just watch their own videos over and over again continuously. YouTube is able to monitor IP addresses and can see where they are coming from. This will likely result in your content being flagged and then being taken down. 

New Features and Enhancements

YouTube continues to refine the YPP, introducing new features to enhance the program for creators. In 2021, YouTube launched Super Chat, a feature that allows viewers to donate to creators during live streams. Super Chat donations are displayed prominently in the chat, giving viewers a unique way to support their favorite creators.

Impact on the Creator Economy

The evolution of the YPP has had a profound impact on the creator economy, empowering content creators to build successful businesses and pursue their passion for creating content. The YPP has enabled countless creators to earn a living from their work and has contributed to the growth of a vibrant community of independent content creators.

As YouTube continues to evolve, the YPP is expected to play an even more significant role in supporting creators and fostering a thriving creator economy. The program’s ability to adapt and provide innovative monetization opportunities will be crucial in attracting and retaining the next generation of creative voices.

How Much Money Can You Make?

The most common question on a creator’s mind when they start a YouTube channel is, how much money can I make from YouTube? This answer isn’t as straightforward as it may seem. There are many various factors at play when it comes to determining how much a channel will receive for its videos.

For starters, this is where the number of views can help. YouTube does provide money based on the amount paid by the number of views. A view counts when a user remains on a video for longer than 5 seconds. YouTube offers a few different options when it comes to advertising, the first is an advertisement that will play at the beginning/end of a video. 

The next is a visual ad that might appear over the lower third of the video during playback. The third is an ad that appears on the side of a YouTube channel when viewed from a desktop. Depending on what kind of advertisement it is, YouTube will pay different amounts to a creator.

Additionally, how popular a channel is has a massive role in the amount of money someone earns. Commonly, the more popular a channel is, the more someone will want to advertise on it, which means someone with a bigger channel will earn a lot more money than a smaller channel usually would.

YouTube Academy 

To increase the quality of the content on its platform, YouTube decided to set up the Creator Academy. They offer video format lessons and courses to their users. These courses offer a wide range of tips and tricks to help users better the video content they are making. The videos that are offered are free as YouTube see it as a way to improve their website.

How do you apply to become a YouTube partner?

Are You Eligible?

The requirements are mentioned earlier in the article. If these conditions do not apply to your channel, you will not be accepted as a YouTube partner. The following steps will only work if you are already eligible.

Eligibility Criteria:

1. Channel Requirements:
   • Subscriber Count: Have at least 1,000 subscribers.
   • Watch Time: Accumulate 4,000 valid public watch hours within the last 12 months. A valid watch hour is counted when a viewer watches a video for at least 30 seconds (or the entire video if it’s shorter than 30 seconds) without skipping ads.
   • Content Guidelines: Follow all YouTube Monetization Policies, Community Guidelines, and Copyright Guidelines to ensure your content is compliant and suitable for monetization.
2. Location:
   • Resident Country: Reside in a country/region where the YPP is available. You can find an up-to-date list of eligible countries on the YPP eligibility page.
3. Linked AdSense Account:
   • AdSense Account: Create or link an existing AdSense account to your YouTube channel. AdSense is the payment system used to distribute ad revenue to YPP creators.
4. Three Public Uploads:
   • Recent Uploads: Have at least three public uploads on your channel within the last 90 days.

Enable the Monetisation Status

Sign in to your account and click the right corner of the screen, exactly on your channel’s profile picture. Select ‘Creator Studio’, then ‘Channel’. You will find many tabs under “channel,” go for ‘Status Features’. Look for “Monetisation” and then click ‘Enable’.

Read and Agree on the Programme’s Terms and Conditions

This is good for knowing the exact content you should avoid on YouTube. Otherwise, your channel will have a bad image to YouTube’s SEO and the platform may remove your content or ban your channel.

Select Your Monetisation Options

Now you will select between the three types of advertising that we mentioned earlier: ‘Overlay In-Video Ads’, ‘TrueView In-Stream Ads’, and ‘Videos Contain a Product Placement’.You must choose at least one. Surely, if you want to maximise your ad revenue, you should select the three of them. You can always adjust these ad settings or select specific videos that you wish to place ads on.

Click “Monetise My Videos” to confirm your enrollment in the programme.

Wait for YouTube’s Approval

YouTube usually approves all channels within seconds. Unless the channel contains content that does not comply with the website’s policies. Your chosen ads should be visible on your channel, and you will be able to make money right away.

Create an AdSense Account

Your AdSense account is set up through your YouTube account and you can associate more than one channel with your AdSense account. However, a payee is not allowed to have more than one AdSense account. 

In order to receive your payments, you will have to register your email, the same one associated with your YouTube channel, and all your banking information. Through the AdSense account, you can keep track of your earnings or fix any issues relevant to them.

Vary the Ads that Run on Your Channel

Sometimes one type of advertising works better for a certain type of content and according to the nature of the video, you should select suitable advertising. For example, mid-roll ads are not suitable for short videos. 

You will also come to notice which type of advertising your audience responds best to. Also, using the same advertising approach over and over can make your videos seem dull and boring. It is always good to have a mix of this and that.

Offer Paid Subscriptions

If your channel reaches 100,000 subscribers, it means that you have valuable content that people would pay to watch. YouTube unlocks this feature for unique channels so that they are encouraged to create more engaging content. This means that you can earn $0.99-$4.99 a month from every subscriber. This is YouTube replacing the old fashioned TV subscription.

Additional Requirements:

1. Age:
   • Minimum Age: Be at least 18 years old or have a legal guardian to manage your account.
2. Content Ownership:
   • Original Content: Ensure that all your uploaded videos are your original content and that you have the necessary rights to monetize them.
3. Community Engagement:
   • Active Community: Actively engage with your audience by responding to comments, participating in discussions, and fostering a positive community atmosphere.
4. Channel Branding:
   • Professional Appearance: Maintain a professional channel appearance with a clear channel description, high-quality profile picture and banner image, and consistent branding across your videos.
5. Compliance and Guidelines:
   • Adherence to Terms: Strictly adhere to YouTube’s Terms of Service, Community Guidelines, and Monetization Policies to maintain eligibility and avoid potential penalties.

Application Process:

Once you meet the eligibility criteria and fulfill the requirements, you can apply for the YPP through the YouTube Studio. The review process typically takes 30 days, and you will receive a notification informing you of the outcome.

Tips for Aspiring Creators:

• Focus on Content Quality: Prioritize creating high-quality, engaging, and informative content that resonates with your target audience.
• Build a Consistent Audience: Grow your audience organically by consistently publishing valuable content, promoting your channel across social media platforms, and engaging with your viewers.
• Understand YouTube Policies: Familiarize yourself with YouTube’s monetization policies, community guidelines, and copyright guidelines to ensure your content is compliant.
• Seek Support: Utilize YouTube’s Creator Academy resources, attend workshops, and connect with other creators to gain insights and guidance.

Types of Advertising Formats on YouTube

Overlay Ads 

Overlay ads are found at the bottom of a video, you can remove the ads by clicking the exit button on the top right corner of the advertisement. 

Display Ads

These advertisements are found on the right side of the video above the video suggestion list. For a larger player display ads may be found below the video. 

Skippable Videos Ads

Skippable video ads appear at the start, the middle or the end of a YouTube video, after 5 seconds the user is able to skip the advertisement.

Non-Skippable Videos Ads 

Non-skippable advertisements have to be watched before the main video. Just like skippable ads, they can be found at the start, middle or end of a video. 

Sponsored Cards

They will display content that will be relevant to what your video is, this could include any products that may be in your YouTube video.

the benefits and advantages of joining the YPP

Joining the YouTube Partner Program (YPP) offers many benefits and advantages for content creators, enabling them to monetize their videos, access valuable creator support tools, and enhance their channel’s visibility.

Monetization Opportunities:

1. Ad Revenue Sharing: Earn ad revenue from displaying targeted ads on your videos. The amount you earn depends on factors like ad engagement, viewer demographics, and the overall performance of your channel.
2. Super Chat and Super Stickers: Allow viewers to donate Super Chats and Super Stickers during live streams. These donations are displayed prominently in the chat, providing a direct way for viewers to support their favorite creators.
3. Channel Memberships: Offer channel memberships to your viewers, providing them with exclusive perks like badges, emojis, and member-only content. This recurring revenue stream can provide a stable source of income for creators.
4. Merchandising: Sell merchandise related to your channel, such as apparel, accessories, or digital products. This can be a lucrative way to monetize your brand and connect with your audience beyond YouTube.

Access to Creator Support Tools:

1. Copyright Protection: Utilize Content ID, a powerful tool that identifies and protects your copyrighted content from unauthorized use across YouTube.
2. Analytics Dashboard: Gain insights into your channel’s performance with the comprehensive analytics dashboard, tracking metrics like watch time, subscriber growth, and audience demographics.
3. Creator Academy: Access the Creator Academy, a vast resource hub with educational courses, workshops, and support articles to help you grow your channel, monetize your content, and navigate YouTube effectively.
4. Creator Support Team: Reach out to the dedicated Creator Support Team for assistance with channel-specific issues, policy guidance, and overall support in navigating the YPP.

Enhanced Channel Visibility:

1. Promoted Videos: Have your videos promoted within YouTube’s search results, suggested videos, and homepage recommendations, increasing your chances of reaching a wider audience.
2. Official Creator Badge: Display the official YPP badge on your channel, showcasing your status as a recognized YouTube partner and enhancing your credibility.
3. Increased Discoverability: Gain access to exclusive opportunities, such as YouTube channel spotlights and partnerships with brands, further boosting your channel’s visibility and reach.
4. Networking Opportunities: Connect with other YPP creators, collaborate on content, and expand your network within the YouTube community.

Joining the YPP provides creators with the tools, resources, and opportunities to monetize their passion, connect with their audience, and establish a successful career on YouTube. The benefits extend beyond financial gains, encompassing enhanced visibility, community engagement, and professional growth within the creator ecosystem.

Real-world examples of YouTubers who have achieved success through the YPP

The YouTube Partner Program (YPP) has been instrumental in the success of countless YouTubers, enabling them to monetize their content, build thriving communities, and make a significant impact on the platform. Here are a few notable examples of YouTubers who have achieved remarkable success through the YPP:

Mark Rober:

Mark Rober, a former NASA engineer, has amassed over 19 million subscribers on YouTube with his engaging and informative science experiments and educational videos. Through the YPP, Rober has been able to turn his passion for science into a thriving career, monetizing his videos and using the revenue to fund even more elaborate and creative experiments.

Michelle Phan:

Michelle Phan, a pioneer in the beauty and makeup community on YouTube, has over 8.8 million subscribers and has built a successful beauty empire through her channel. The YPP has played a crucial role in her success, allowing her to monetize her beauty tutorials, product reviews, and collaborations with brands.

Dude Perfect:

Dude Perfect, a group of friends known for their incredible trick shots and stunts, has over 56 million subscribers on YouTube. The YPP has enabled them to turn their love of trick shots into a full-fledged career, monetizing their videos, producing merchandise, and even hosting their own television show.

The Try Guys:

The Try Guys, a group of four friends who challenge themselves with various experiments and activities, have over 17 million subscribers on YouTube. Through the YPP, they have been able to monetize their comedic and entertaining videos, building a loyal fan base and expanding their brand beyond YouTube.

Liza Koshy:

Liza Koshy, an actress and comedian, has over 20 million subscribers on YouTube, where she showcases her comedic sketches, vlogs, and challenges. The YPP has been instrumental in her success, allowing her to monetize her videos, build her acting career, and become a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.

These examples demonstrate the transformative power of the YPP in empowering creators on YouTube to turn their passions into successful careers. The program has not only enriched the platform with diverse and engaging content but has also fostered a vibrant community of creators who have inspired and entertained millions of viewers worldwide.

Other Ways to Make Money From YouTube Videos

The YouTube monetization option is not the only way you can make money through your YouTube, having a YouTube channel means you’re a great space for a brand to advertise their product or service.  

First of all, you will need to find a sponsor.  Whatever sponsor you have, it has to fit the style of your YouTube channel. For example, if you’re a make-up blogger, teaming up with a company for skin products makes a lot of sense. It means your viewers will actually be interested in the product you’re advertising.

FAQ

Q: What are the eligibility criteria for joining the YPP?

• Have at least 1,000 subscribers
• Accumulate 4,000 valid public watch hours within the last 12 months
• Follow all YouTube Monetization Policies, Community Guidelines, and Copyright Guidelines
• Reside in a country/region where the YPP is available
• Create or link an existing AdSense account to your YouTube channel
• Have at least three public uploads on your channel within the last 90 days

Q: What are the benefits of joining the YPP?

• Monetize your videos through ad revenue, Super Chat and Super Stickers, channel memberships, and merchandising
• Access valuable creator support tools, including Content ID, analytics dashboard, Creator Academy, and Creator Support Team
• Enhance your channel’s visibility through promotion in search results, suggested videos, and homepage recommendations, official Creator Badge, exclusive opportunities, and networking within the creator community

Q: How long does it take to get approved for the YPP?

The YPP review process typically takes 30 days. You will receive a notification informing you of the outcome.

Q: What can I do to increase my chances of getting approved for the YPP?

• Focus on creating high-quality, engaging, and informative content
• Build a consistent audience
• Understand YouTube’s policies
• Seek support from other creators and YouTube resources

Q: What are some real-world examples of YouTubers who have achieved success through the YPP?

• Mark Rober
• Michelle Phan
• Dude Perfect
• The Try Guys
• Liza Koshy

These are just a few examples of the many successful YouTubers who have benefited from the YPP. The program has enabled countless creators to turn their passions into successful careers on YouTube.

I hope this FAQ section is helpful. Please let me know if you have any other questions.

Conclusion

The YouTube Partner Program (YPP) is a valuable tool for aspiring and established YouTubers alike. It provides creators with the opportunity to monetize their content, access valuable support resources, and enhance their channel’s visibility. If you are serious about building a successful YouTube channel, I encourage you to apply for the YPP.

YouTube offers a great opportunity to make money for the content you’re making. Profiting from YouTube will be a long process that will require patience and hard work in order to succeed. Becoming part of the YouTube Partner Network makes video production profitable which is useful for investing in the improvement of the quality of videos. In addition, it will motivate creators to continue creating more exciting and unique video content.