YouTubers Shift Beyond Ads to Build Businesses

[tradelikepro]

YouTube says its creator ecosystem contributed over $55 billion to the U.S. GDP and created nearly half a million full-time jobs last year. But many creators are increasingly looking beyond ads and brand deals to make a living.

Unpredictable ad revenue and frequent policy changes have prompted top YouTubers to diversify. Some are now building their own product lines, opening physical stores, or launching independent consumer brands to reduce reliance on the platform.

In many cases, these side businesses are growing faster and more sustainably than the creators’ channels themselves, helping them weather algorithm changes and maintain stable income streams.

[jacson4]

YouTube says creators added $55B to U.S. GDP and 500K full-time jobs last year.
But many are finding ads + brand deals aren’t enough — memberships, merch, and direct fan support are becoming essential for sustainable income. #YouTube #CreatorEconomy

[EmTeam]

$55B impact, 500K jobs: YouTube’s creator economy is massive.
Yet creators say ad revenue isn’t cutting it anymore. The future is in fan subscriptions, merch, and alternative platforms where they own more of the upside. #CreatorEconomy #YouTube