Content creation is one of the best things that boomed with the rise of social media. We have seen the starting point of several livestreamers who have been showing their influential digital personalities.
Over the years, social media companies managed to make agreements with content creators by launching various programs that would serve as a win-win situation between the company and the creators.
However, it is not as simple as it sounds. Behind the scenes of every produced content, there is a complex financial landscape that enables these creators to make a sustainable living out of streaming.
Earn Through Ad Revenue
Many streaming platforms like Twitch and YouTube have opened an ad revenue program for their creators. Although it can be pretty annoying to watch and get interrupted by sudden advertisements, these are just one way to help your favorite creators earn money.
Advertisements that are placed during or before their streams will allow them to get a portion of the revenue generated. Aside from streaming, they often upload their stream highlights wherein they can also monetize by placing ads.
Exclusive Subscription Offers
Many streaming platforms have adapted the subscription model, wherein viewers will pay a monthly fee as a way to support their beloved streamers. This type of offer usually has additional and exclusive features such as ad-free viewing, custom emotes, special badges, and more.
On the other hand, streamers can upload exclusive content that is only available to their subscribers, making it more worthy to pay for the content. Sometimes subscribers can also get an early viewing compared to those who are watching for free.
Sponsorship Deals
If you see your favorite streamer rock a frame with a bunch of logos around it only means that it is a lucky day to have sponsors. Well-known streamers usually get deals from various companies that want to penetrate the streaming industry, such as gaming.
Through sponsorship, streamers can promote a product or a service during their stream by mentioning certain specifications for it and others. This also provides them with a steady source of income aside from their streaming earnings.
Create Own Merchandise
Once they feel settled with their fan base, most streamers will launch their merchandise. This could be from their own designs or they hire someone to reflect who they are on-screen through the merchandise they are selling.
Most of the time it includes T-shirts, hoodies, gaming peripherals, and more. This gives the streamers a chance to monetize their own reputation and name to the fans. At the same time, it is also their way to connect with their fans and show how they appreciate them.
Tips on Stream
Streaming platforms such as Twitch, Facebook, and TikTok allow viewers to give money directly to the streamers through tips, donations, or stars. These act like an in-platform currency that they can send as a gift to their favorite streamers. As an exchange, they can get a shoutout or a thanks from them once they notice it on their screen.
