Making money on YouTube is no longer just for celebrities or viral sensations — it’s a viable income stream for content creators of all kinds. Whether you’re a vlogger, educator, musician, or gamer, YouTube offers multiple monetization options that can turn your passion into profit. Here’s everything you need to know about making money on YouTube in 2025, including updated rules, strategies, and tips to grow sustainably.
1. Join the YouTube Partner Program (YPP)
The most direct way to earn on YouTube is through the YouTube Partner Program, which lets you monetize through ads, memberships, Super Chats, and more.
Requirements as of 2025:
- 500 subscribers
- 3 public videos in the last 90 days
- Either 3,000 watch hours in the past 12 months or 3 million Shorts views in the past 90 days
Once accepted, you can earn from:
- Ad revenue (pre-roll, mid-roll, display ads)
- Channel memberships (fans pay monthly for perks)
- Super Thanks, Super Chat, and Super Stickers (fans tip during livestreams)
- Shopping (Merch Shelf) if your content qualifies
2. YouTube Shorts Monetization
Short-form video is booming, and YouTube now allows creators to monetize Shorts directly.
- Creators in YPP earn a share of revenue from ads placed between Shorts.
- You must have at least 3 million Shorts views in 90 days to qualify.
- Shorts bonuses and brand deals are another stream.
Tip: Mix Shorts and long-form content to grow faster and qualify for monetization sooner.
3. Affiliate Marketing
You can promote products in your videos and earn commissions through affiliate links. Common programs include:
- Amazon Associates
- Jumia & Kilimall affiliate programs (for Kenya)
- SaaS platforms like Canva, Skillshare, or Bluehost
Key Tip: Add disclosure (“This video contains affiliate links”) to stay compliant with YouTube policies and avoid community strikes.
4. Sponsorships and Brand Deals
As your audience grows, brands will pay to promote their products. Rates depend on niche, engagement, and location.
Estimated Rates (in USD, varies):
- 10,000 subscribers: $100–$500 per video
- 100,000 subscribers: $1,000–$10,000+
- Kenyan creators can negotiate based on CPM (Cost Per Mille) from Ksh 200 to Ksh 1,500+
Always include #Ad or Sponsored in your video title or description to maintain transparency.
5. Sell Your Own Products
From digital products like eBooks and courses to physical merchandise (branded T-shirts, mugs), YouTube lets you link external stores.
- Use platforms like Shopify, Spring (Teespring), Selar, or Gumroad
- Promote during videos, in the description, or via end screens/cards
- YouTube Shopping tab is now available to eligible creators in several countries
6. Crowdfunding & Fan Support
Many creators turn to fan support for recurring income:
- Patreon: Offer behind-the-scenes content, early access, or shoutouts
- Buy Me A Coffee: For one-time donations
- YouTube Memberships: Built-in tiered support system (must be in YPP)
7. Use YouTube Analytics to Optimize Earnings
- Track which videos bring the most Revenue Per Mille (RPM)
- Double down on watch time and audience retention
- Learn your audience demographics to pitch better to brands
Tip: CPMs are higher in niches like finance, education, and tech — targeting the right topics can significantly boost your ad revenue.
8. Local Trends: Making Money as a Kenyan Creator
Kenyan YouTubers like Mungai Eve, Abel Mutua (The Mkurugenzi), Lynn Ngugi, and others have successfully monetized by building loyal audiences and diversifying income.
Local monetization tips:
- Combine AdSense with Safaricom’s M-PESA for payouts
- Tap into local brand deals and events
- Produce content in Kiswahili or Sheng’ to target niche but loyal audiences
Final Thoughts
Success on YouTube isn’t overnight — it’s built with consistency, community, and creativity. By combining ad revenue, fan support, affiliate marketing, and brand partnerships, you can turn your channel into a full-time income source.
Whether you’re starting with a smartphone or a full studio setup, the platform rewards those who solve problems, entertain, and connect authentically with viewers.
