As a short-form creator, you're probably wondering if you can monetize your YouTube Shorts like long-form creators monetize their videos. 

YouTube has several paths for monetizing short content, and this guide explains all of your options.

One of the best ways to monetize your Shorts is through the YouTube Partner Program (YPP). Upon joining, you have access to all of YouTube's money-making tools, like the ability to place ads on videos or monetize your audience directly through fan-funding.

There are two ways to enter the YPP (you only need to choose one!).

Upload 3 public videos in the last 90 days.

Get 3,000 public watch hours in the last 365 days or 3 million public Shorts views in the last 90 days.

 from long-form videos in the last 365 days or 

If you're a Shorts creator or someone who makes long and short videos, option 2 or 3 is your best bet for joining the YPP!

 will earn advertising revenue. So, do these four things to stay in the clear:

YouTube's Advertiser-Friendly Content Guidelines

Avoid using unedited clips from movies and TV shows that you don't have rights to.

Avoid uploading another creator's content without adding a new perspective or transforming the content.

Monetizing YouTube Shorts Through Ads: A Quick Rundown

 is a bit different from monetizing a regular YouTube video. Notably, all Shorts revenue is split between different parties, including the creators who make them and the music publishers who provide songs for those videos.

The four steps of YouTube Shorts monetization 

 all of the Shorts ad revenue on its platform.

 how much money goes to the creator pool, which depends on views and music usage across all Shorts. If creators use no music in their Shorts, they retain all of the revenue at this point. If they use music, the revenue is split between the creator pool and music publishers.

 the ad revenue to monetized Shorts creators. This is based on a creator's total share of Shorts views on the platform, whether that's 5%, 10%, 15%, etc.

Can You Monetize YouTube Shorts Without 1,000 Subscribers?

If you're just starting out on YouTube, getting 500 subscribers is a quick way to join the YPP and monetize your Shorts. You won't earn ad revenue, but you can monetize most of your content — Shorts included — through fan-funding tools.

For example, with just 500 subs, you can collect 

 revenue on your YouTube Shorts. These are "video tips" ranging from $2 to $50 that your fans can send to support individual videos.

 are an option as well, especially if you love streaming on YouTube.

When you host a vertical or horizontal live stream, viewers in the live chat can reward you with monetary donations ranging from $1 to $500. These can appear as Super Chats — colorful comments pinned to the top of the live chat — or as Super Stickers, which are fun, digital animations that appear on the screen.

Channel Memberships offer exclusive perks, such as members-only videos, badges, Community posts, emojis, and livestreams, to a creators' super fans. It's a great way to make money, but did you know that you can get your YouTube Shorts monetized through channel memberships? 

After all, Shorts count as videos too! You can make these exclusive to your members just like regular, horizontal content.

How Much Money Will You Earn from Shorts?

Are YouTube Shorts monetized in a sustainable way? Can they become a side hustle or help you quit your day job?

We'd have said it's hard to make decent money from Shorts only a year ago, barring times when you get a nice chunk of revenue. For example, we got 

 for a vidIQ Short that got 468,500 views.

The content performance dashboard showing we earned $16.61 from YouTube Shorts

With recent updates on advertisements, RPM on our Shorts has seen an impressive 150% increase. Currently, we are seeing an RPM of $0.10 on our Shorts., without any external changes like location of viewers, topic of videos, etc.

This hasn't happened overnight. YouTube has steadily increased Shorts revenue on the vidIQ channel throughout the year. It seems like advertisers have finally found the sweet spot for their products in the Shorts ecosystem as other creators have also talked about experiencing similar surges on their channel! Watch Rob discuss all of that in the video below!

It's easier than ever to become a monetized Shorts creator, but you'll need 

OK, so getting into the YPP to monetize your Shorts is a real challenge. You either have to go viral a lot or face the difficult task of earning 1,000 subscribers plus thousands of hours of watch time.

. There are other ways to make money from Shorts, and one of those golden opportunities is through

When a brand sponsors you, they’re paying you to advertise a product or service in one of your videos. That could be a new line of laptops, the latest leggings from Lululemon, or even a squeegee that removes pet hair from dirty carpet.

Here’s an example of a sponsored Short. In this video, actress Eliana Ghen advertises Vita, a mobile video editing app.

If you’re looking at this video and thinking, 

You don’t need millions of views and subscribers to 

 —just the right audience and a strong YouTube resume.

 said they plan to invest in short-form content more than they did in 2021.

Brands are excited to partner with short-form creators.

As for that last detail, don’t just take our word for it. 

“At the end of the day, most brands don’t want to partner with you and feel like the only thing you’re good at is long-form video,” Moore says. “They want to feel that you may have some flexibility to create different types of content.”

Read this post to avoid the common mistakes YouTubers make while pitching brands

There are a few mountains to climb when monetizing short-form content, but don't worry! 

 Our blog has many tips and tricks to help you get 500 subscribers, 1,000 subscribers, 4,000 watch hours, and even 10 million Shorts views. Just click the hyperlinks throughout this post to get a winning plan for YouTube success!

Now that you know how to monetize YouTube Shorts, let's take things up a notch and show you how to increase your views!

A smartphone displaying "Shorts Feed Ads" on its screen

Are you ready to finally monetize your YouTube Shorts? Here's how to make money with short, vertical videos in 2024.

YouTube Shorts Monetization: How to Profit from Short Videos

For many years, YouTube has been guilty of not fully explaining how and why demonetization due to restricted ads actually happened. Well, creators, your cries have been answered!

20 YouTube Updates that Will Affect Your Channel in 2024

Restricted ads notification on YouTube studio

YouTube has recently launched a monetization feature that will not only help you avoid that dreaded yellow icon for your videos but also give insights on tour past videos and mistakes that caused your content to get demonetized. And who better than our expert Rob Wilson to explain all of that to you! Click on the link below.

Only for those using the desktop upload process.

Creators must honestly self-certify their videos during the upload process.

Creators can appeal if a video receives a yellow icon indicating restricted ads. A human expert will review the video based on the following factors. In the video above by Creator Insider, you can learn how you appeal for the removal of these yellow icons. In short, here is what is required:

The review will detail which guidelines were breached.

Specifics on how the breach affects ad placement.

Identifies the exact moment the issue occurred in the video.

 Includes details if the issue was with the thumbnail or title.

Given that this process is fairly new and still pending results, there are some limitations that we have to accept. The intention is for creators to learn and avoid future mistakes, and not abuse the process. So, creators need to request a review to get this detailed report--there isn't an automatic alternative yet.

While you can still look at past mistakes, you cannot retroactively change them by just editing out the contentious part. However, YouTube may consider re-reviewing content in the future.

But all in all, it's a huge step taken in favor of creators moving forward!

, YouTube has taken a more hands-on approach with ad placements on your videos. Instead of allowing you to select the ads you want to show, such as pre-rolls, post-rolls, skippable, or non-skippable, YouTube makes those decisions for you. Not only that, but YouTube also decides 

This means you don't have to manually insert video ads anymore; YouTube will place them along the best possible timestamps, effectively doing the hard work for you. But why is this happening? 

 while ensuring that creators make the most money possible. It’s a win-win because creators will spend less time placing ads and (potentially) earn more ad revenue overall. But more on that later!

What Happens to My Watch Time If YouTube Handles My Ads?

If you're concerned about how this might affect your watch time, YouTube has some insights. Their data suggests that enabling non-skippable ads can 

, with only a minor decrease in watch time of less than 1%.

Additionally, activating pre-roll ads can potentially 

, with a watch time reduction of less than 5%.

So, yes — watch time will take a small hit, but the tradeoff is that you can make more money in the long run. This video has all the details, so give it a watch if you need more information about the update.

While these changes offer a streamlined approach, it's worth noting that the 

ad settings of your existing videos won’t change

. And for those who want to use mid-roll ads, you still have the option to place those manually.

, there are updates in that arena as well. Creators can choose to let YouTube determine the optimal times for mid-roll ads during streams or set regular intervals, such as every 6, 8, or 10 minutes. However, if you're using third-party streaming tools, like StreamYard, be aware that they might not support these new ad features (yet).

These changes won’t impact every creator. But it's good to understand them as you navigate YouTube, the new ad settings, and the monetization goals you’ve set for your channel.

And, speaking of monetization, are you looking for ways to boost your YouTube AdSense revenue? This guide will show you how!

a graphic showing the dollar sign symbol and the phrase "plus 15%"

Calling all monetized creators! Learn all the recent ads updates coming directly from the YouTube office.

YouTube Monetization Update: Key Changes for Video Ads

Every time we hear the words "1000 subscribers," getting monetized on YouTube is the first the we think about. We're willing to bet most creators have the same thought!

But to earn the most money from your videos, you need to reach the highest 

: 1,000 subscribers and either 4,000 watch hours or 10 million YouTube Shorts views. Then you can join the YouTube Partner Program and earn money from fan-funding and advertising revenue.

 does YouTube pay when you have 1,000 subscribers? The answer isn’t as straightforward as the question itself.

A handful of factors will influence your earnings on YouTube, and in the video above, we discussed the big three. So, fellow content creators, let's take a look at what those are.

How to Get 1,000 Subscribers on YouTube (Fast and Free)

YouTube has become a vast platform with many profitable niches that cater to different audiences, and the one you choose can significantly impact your earnings. For example, finance and tech channels are often more lucrative than lifestyle or entertainment channels. The former exists in a bigger market, which means bigger payouts overall.

, VloggerPro talks about the most profitable YouTube niches in 2023. If you don't know what kind of content to make or want to spice things up, check it out. You'll get an understanding of what works on YouTube. 

Plus, here are some YouTube niche ideas that viewers like!

The 37 Best YouTube Niches, According to Viewers

It's good to know the basic demographics of your audience. Things like the age of your viewers, the gender split on your channel, and the languages they speak can be enlightening for any creator. 

 to understand viewers better and develop a winning content strategy.

But, when it comes to revenue, the only relevant data here is the geographical location of your viewers. Channels with a majority of viewers from the 

United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom

Top geographies of users on a youtube channel

By now, we're all well aware of what YouTube ideally wants for its viewers. It is to create a binge session for them and keep them on the platform for hours on end. And if your videos help with that, you're definitely on the right track.

a viewer who is satisfied after watching a video

Highly engaging videos that keep viewers watching for longer periods can result in more ad placements, thereby increasing your earnings. This usually results in improved video engagement metrics such as an increased number of likes, comments, views, and watch time.

Phone showing youTube logo and sitting on pile of money

The first thing to understand about YouTube revenue is that it's measured through a metric called 

. This stands for revenue per mille and captures a rough estimate of how much you made after deductions. We're not talking about taxes, though. RPM is your take-home pay after YouTube gets its cut of your advertising and 

Understanding YouTube RPM and Your Channel's Real Revenue

For example, an RPM of $5 means a creator made $5 for every 1,000 views on YouTube. And this would include advertising revenue as well as earnings from Super Thanks, Super Chats, and Channel Memberships.

According to Statista, the average CPM, or how much money advertisers paid YouTube per 1,000 views, 

So we can safely assume the average RPM is under $9.

So, How Much Does YouTube Actually Pay For 1,000 Subscribers?

, we highlight creators who shared their actual earnings on YouTube after getting 1,000 subscribers. And, by the way, these earnings represent one month of uploading on YouTube!

Channel topic: personal finance/side hustles

 has 8,690 subscribers — a small channel by most creators' standards. But this hasn't stopped them from making hundreds of dollars with just 1,000 subscribers. This goes to show that hot niches like finance are more valuable in the market and can result in higher RPMs.

Watch the video below to hear their story:

Channel topic: personal growth, real estate, content creation

has a few focuses on YouTube, from housing to personal growth to teaching content creation. We typically advise creators to focus on one niche, but it looks like Irina is earning more money through experimentation!

gaming channel, and this topic is pretty popular on YouTube. But it looks like companies aren't paying a lot of money to advertise on gaming videos — at least, not like finance or real estate ones. This channel's RPM of $4.93 is among the lowest on the list, but it's more realistic for most creators.

Setting realistic expectations for making money on YouTube is crucial from the get-go. While reaching 1,000 subscribers is a significant milestone, it's just the beginning. And it'll likely be a while before you see significant numbers on your paycheck, especially if you're limited to ad revenue.

In the video above, Rob also highlights the importance of 

 on YouTube. Affiliate marketing, sponsorships, and merchandise sales are excellent ways to supplement your YouTube earnings.

With fan-funding, YouTube has really opened up the game for smaller creators

. All you need is 500 subscribers to access Super Chats, Super Thanks, and Super Stickers, and earn money directly from the people who love and support your content.

By following the tips we've mentioned above, you can enter the YPP by meeting the monetization requirements in as fast as 28 days. You may find it hard to believe but many creators have done it recently across a wide range of niches. Our YouTube expert Dan will teach you how to do it too, if you watch the video below.


How Much Will You Make with 1,000 Subs? It Depends

As we mentioned before, the answer isn't straightforward because your niche, geography, and video performance play a significant role. Be prepared to accept that this takes time to build, and it's best to think of your channel as a long-term business. 

That is the right mindset for massive YouTube success!

Phone showing YouTube logo on top of money

In this blog, you'll find out what creators actually get paid after reaching 1,000 subscribers on YouTube. These are real payouts from real channels!

How Much Does YouTube Pay For 1,000 Subscribers?

After years of hard work, nothing comes close to the feeling of 

 It makes the journey a thousand times more meaningful, especially when that labor includes hundreds of videos, thumbnails, and YouTube titles.

If you aren’t monetized yet, can we propose a new year’s resolution? Sharpen your video skills, expedite your path to the YouTube Partner Program, and get paid!

Basic Requirements for Joining the YouTube Partner Program (YPP):

The YPP allows creators to monetize their videos with advertisements and fan funding revenue, such as Super Chats and Stickers, Super Thanks, and Channel Memberships. YouTube doesn’t let 

 into the program, so there are plenty of requirements to meet.

To get monetized quickly, you need to focus on two things:

These milestones matter because they represent the various paths into the YPP.

If you want to make money through fan funding, here are the minimum requirements to join the YPP:

3,000 public watch hours in the previous 12 months or 3 million public YouTube Shorts views in the last 90 days

If you want to make money with video advertisements, here are the minimum requirements do that:

 of public watch time within a 12-month period or 

youtube requirements ad revenue partner program

Tips for Building 3,000-4,000 Watch Hours

On YouTube, watch time is the cumulative duration that individuals spend watching a video. These hours add up to reflect your channel's overall count, and, consequently, your ability to join the YPP. Here, we’ll explain how to quickly get the 3,000 to 4,000 hours you need.

1. Make Videos with High Watch Time Potential

red youtube themed clock with 9 minutes and 45 seconds displayed

Did you know that some videos get more watch time than others? It’s not that they're special or amazingly different; they’re simply formatted in a way that supports 

10 Types of Videos that Attract More YouTube Watch Time

So, if you’re starting a new YouTube channel, try your hand at these watch time collectors:

 Audio-based content that accumulates high watch time if the topic is engaging.

 Videos that kids watch repeatedly (like nursery rhymes and baby songs), which produce more watch hours.

: Videos that explore topics in-depth, often with a mix of education and entertainment.

 Live videos that are typically lengthy and earn high watch time.

 Sound-driven videos that can play in the background and rack up watch hours.

 A collection of entertaining videos that play back-to-back and keep viewers engaged.

Before anything else, YouTube is an entertainment platform for billions of people. So, the more interesting and innovative you are, the easier it is to earn watch time. Of course, you’ll have to be 

 innovative than thousands of creators, which is easier said than done. 

But it’s possible. You just have to be 90% better than your competition. This typically means 

creating something people haven’t seen before

In other words, what makes your content special?

For example, we can guarantee you’ve never seen a dog stomping on its hind legs enthusiastically, wobbling from left to right between its owner’s knees. Most people love pet videos, but that’s not something you see every day.

However, the dog is real and represents a YouTube channel (Adventuring With Nala) that’s about to hit 600,000 subscribers! It’s fresh and fascinating, especially in the pet space.

Do you show your face in YouTube videos? If so, one way to delight your audience (and boost watch time) is to be more engaging. Use your voice, personality, and facial expressions to make viewers feel at home when watching your content. This, by far, is an underrated way to keep their attention.

How to Become a Pro at Speaking on Camera

Start by figuring out how long you need to speak instead of rambling or freestyling. Then, vary your speaking patterns (volume and speed) to create vocal variety and keep viewers engaged. Create warmth in your video by maintaining eye contact, changing your facial expressions, and using welcoming body language.

4. Don’t Just Make Videos — Tell Stories

A man telling a story with animated expression

In 2020, we would have told you to edit your videos so there are 

. But four years later, videos are getting longer and less polished as creators prioritize story times and intimate vlogs. And it’s working.

, Dry Creek Wrangler School, and Phil Cofer making videos that feel like “life discussions” between friends.

If we’ve learned anything from the rise of authenticity on YouTube, it’s that viewers want to feel like they’re hanging out with a close friend. And what do friends do? They swap stories!

Try your hand at making video essays, story time content, extended vlogs, or anything viewers will stick around for. Combine that with 

, and you’re swiftly on your way to building more watch time!

Tips for Building 500-1,000 YouTube Subscribers

Getting more YouTube subscribers is just as important as boosting your watch time. But while building watch hours is an art, finding your target audience on YouTube is more of a science. Here’s how to make it happen!

Two people cooking and filming the process in a kitchen

On YouTube, your niche is what you’re known for. It’s the specific type of content you make and the topics you discuss on your channel, like home gardening, basketball highlights, or animal rescue. Establishing a niche allows you to attract viewers interested in the same hobby, subject, or lifestyle you’re promoting. And that builds a community!

It’s OK to experiment with different types of content when you first join YouTube. But eventually, you’ll want to be known for something concrete so viewers have a reason to subscribe.

How to Choose the Best Niche for Your YouTube Channel

Woman doing a livestream with heart icons surrounding her

The best YouTube channels are built on strong communities. In fact, replace the phrase “YouTube subscribers” with “YouTube community” and you have the right idea in mind.

Think of how most viewers behave as they watch, browse, and interact on YouTube. Few people subscribe to a channel because they saw one good video; they join after witnessing a solid community.

The Secret Formula for Gaining and Retaining YouTube Subscribers

Building a community isn’t easy, but the actions to get there are simple enough:

Solve problems for your viewers through content, products, and more.

Keep your viewers’ wants and needs in mind when making content.

Talk to your viewers on the YouTube Community Tab

Build exclusive communities just for them.

Do you share your YouTube videos on other platforms? If not, it’s time to post your content on apps like TikTok, Instagram, X, Facebook, and more to 

. This brings more eyeballs to your content and increases your chance of earning more subscribers.

Plus, this way, you aren’t waiting on the 

 to notice your videos and recommend them to the right people. You’re taking matters into your own hands to grow your audience faster.

6 Popular Apps to Promote Your YouTube Channel

Reminding viewers to subscribe is always helpful, but there are other ways to grow your community in record time.

From a user experience standpoint, you can make it ridiculously easy for people to hit subscribe. All you have to do is put a subscribe link, button, or watermark wherever your viewers are — the video watch page, your website, the comment section, etc.

8 Ways to Help Viewers Subscribe to Your YouTube Channel

Place a subscribe button (video watermark) on all of your videos.

Embed a subscribe button on your website or blog.

YouTube Monetization: More Ways to Expedite the Journey

Follow the eight steps above, and you’ll shorten the runway between your first day on YouTube and the day you get monetized. 

However, there are even 

ways to succeed. You can start by following YouTube’s terms and policies, which explain how to keep your channel in good standing. After all, no channel = no money!

Looking for ways to reach YouTube monetization faster? Use these 8 powerful tips to accelerate the journey in 2024.

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