In a move aimed at empowering more creators, YouTube has announced a significant reduction in the eligibility requirements for its Partner Program, allowing smaller creators to monetize their content on the platform. This development comes as YouTube expands its range of monetization methods, including paid chat, tipping, channel memberships, and shopping features.
Under the revised policy, creators can join the YouTube Partner Program once they reach 500 subscribers, which is half the previous threshold set by the platform. Additionally, the benchmarks for watch hours have been revised, with creators needing 3,000 valid watch hours instead of the previous requirement of 4,000. Similarly, for Shorts, creators will need 3 million views, a significant decrease from the original benchmark of 10 million. Initially, these lowered requirements will be implemented in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Taiwan, and South Korea.
However, it’s important to note that while smaller creators can now access certain monetization features, they still need to expand their reach to earn ad revenue. YouTube states that the existing Partner Program requirements will continue to apply for revenue sharing, ensuring creators who reach the higher thresholds won’t need to reapply. YouTube has actively encouraged creators to generate ad revenue, particularly through short-form content, by introducing an ad revenue sharing program specifically for Shorts.
YouTube is extending access to additional monetization streams. The shopping affiliate program, which was previously available through invitation only, is now open to YPP participants in the US who have a minimum of 20,000 subscribers. This expansion opens up new avenues for creators to capitalize on their content and engage with their audience.
This story was originally posted at The Verge.
