Released: Oct. 24, 2011
As announced on their Official blog, YouTube has pulled back the curtain on their new YouTube Partner Grant Program, which is designed to level the playing field when it comes to costly equipment and major production costs.
One of the key lines of thought being the comparison between major brands (with a virtually limitless budget), and the “little guy or gal” staying on his or her grind, cranking out high quality entertaining videos (but with a flip cam).
The Official YouTube Blog goes on to say:
“We’ve made great progress in the last five years. But we think we can do better. That’s why today we are announcing the YouTube Partner Grants program that will invest five million dollars across select new and emerging YouTube partners.
Our goal is to catalyze the creation of new ideas and production models from some of our most innovative and original content partners for the benefit and advancement of the entire industry.”
While five million dollars may like a substantial investment, it’s only one of many projects the billion-dollar company is currently pursuing – I for one feel like it’s a creative step forward, and will benefit both ends of the spectrum greatly.
“The idea behind YouTube Partner Grants is fairly simple. We’ve been amazed by the creativity and resourcefulness of many of our partners. Some, operating on shoe string budgets, have been able to produce incredible videos, generate substantial revenues and command an audience that rivals that of network television.”
If you’re currently a YouTube partner, here’s the scoop on how the program breaks down:
- “YouTube is identifying eligible partners based on factors such as video views, subscribers, growth rate, audience engagement and production expertise
- Selected partners are contacted by YouTube and invited to submit a Grant proposal
- Proposals are evaluated by YouTube based on signals which include projected performance, distribution plan, marketing plan, cost requirements and appeal to advertisers
- If approved, funds are transferred to the partner so they can get started on their project”
So, unfortunately, at this time, you can’t actively pursue a partner grant – you basically need to stay on your grind and show YouTube that you mean business – even if that means sticking with your Flip cam for now.
The good news is there’s much more to a successful channel than high quality video and sound, and YouTube’s starting to take notice – our best advice is to stay consistent and continue to let your creative ideas shine through.
By: Bradley Barks
About Brad
Brad is our lead researcher and editor - he enjoys business, meditation, being active and always learning - his goal is to successfully help you research, find, secure, and enjoy grants and scholarships.
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