Requirements Eased: YouTubers with Few Subscribers Can Now Earn More

Opportunities to earn extra income from the YouTube video platform are now wider open. YouTube has reduced the minimum requirements for joining the Shopping Affiliate programme, allowing creators with fewer subscribers to participate and generate revenue. The Shopping Affiliate programme enables creators to embed (tag) products directly in long-form videos, Shorts, or live streams. Creators receive commissions when viewers purchase items through those links. Previously, creators needed at least 1,000 subscribers to join the YouTube Shopping Affiliate programme. Now, the requirement has been cut to 500 subscribers, opening opportunities for beginner creators to start monetising their content more quickly. YouTube also states that this product recommendation feature is not only available on mobile apps but can also be accessed through the TV platform, broadening the reach of interactions between creators, products, and viewers. Citing Social Media Today, this shopping affiliate programme is seen as a new opportunity for creators to add sources of income. In fact, the shopping link feature is claimed to have helped several creators increase their earnings several times over compared to before. “Every recommendation strengthens the creator’s foundation with the community, turning simple purchases into lasting and loyal relationships,” YouTube added. The Shopping Affiliate programme was first introduced in 2022. At that time, the requirements to join were relatively high and only accessible to creators with large followings. With this change, more creators, especially small and beginner ones, have the opportunity to participate in the affiliate programme and generate income from the content they create. The YouTube Shopping Affiliate programme is currently available in various countries, including Indonesia, as well as major markets such as the United States, South Korea, Japan, and India.