The creator economy is evolving. Although brand deals remain the top revenue source for creators, more and more creators are looking to diversify their revenue models. And more creators than ever are now turning directly to their audiences to generate additional income.

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According to data from Emarketer, creator revenues in 2024 from tipping ($160 million), subscriptions ($270 million), and merchandising ($450 million) on social media will each have at least tripled between 2021 and 2024.

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Creator Memberships

A growing trend for boosting revenue is through memberships and subscriptions. Unlike the unpredictability of YouTube ads or brand deals, memberships provide a more reliable and long-term source of income.

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Whether you're looking to boost your current revenue or fully dive into the world of membership-based business, let's explore the perks, challenges, and examples of how this model can help you bring in more money to continue doing what you love to do.  

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What is a creator membership business?

A creator membership business is a model where you charge a recurring fee—monthly, quarterly, or annually—for access to a range of benefits such as:

1. Exclusive Content: Offer members-only videos, behind-the-scenes footage, or early access to new content.
2. Live Chats & Q&A Sessions: Host live streams or private chats where members can interact directly with the creator.
3. Members-Only Communities: Create private groups on platforms like Discord, Facebook, or Patreon for members to connect and engage with exclusive content.
4. Exclusive Merchandise: Provide limited-edition or members-only merchandise like T-shirts, hats, or collectibles.
5. Loyalty Badges and Emojis: Provide custom badges and emojis that members can use during comments or live chats, showcasing their support.
6. Behind-the-Scenes Content: Offer insights into content creation, like editing tips, production bloopers, or creator workflows.
7. Access to Polls and Decision-Making: Allow members to vote on upcoming video topics or the direction of the channel.
8. Digital Downloads: Offer downloadable resources such as eBooks, design templates, printable artwork, or exclusive music tracks.
9. Exclusive Podcasts: Create members-only podcast episodes, offering in-depth discussions, interviews, or casual chats on niche topics.
10. Members-Only Newsletters: Send out exclusive newsletters with insider updates, personal stories, content recommendations, or exclusive insights into future projects.
11. Coaching Services: Not everyone has the capacity to offer this, but this option can generate extra income while fostering stronger connections with your audience. 

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Why are creators offering memberships?

Memberships and subscriptions offer creators a steady, predictable income stream that's less susceptible to algorithm changes or fluctuations in ad revenue. They also provide an opportunity to offer exclusive content and experiences, which helps to strengthen the bond between creators and their fans.

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Creator Membership Success Stories:

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Yoga With Adriene (Adriene Mishler)

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Adriene Mishler's channel focuses on yoga and wellness, attracting over 12 million subscribers. She runs a membership program called "Find What Feels Good," which provides ad-free videos, exclusive classes, and a supportive community for members. This approach has allowed her to create a dedicated space for her followers while generating consistent income.

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TWiT Tech Podcast Network 

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Lisa and Leo Laporte are the husband-and-wife team behind the podcasting empire TWiT (This Week in Tech). Their various channels offer in-depth news, commentary, tutorials, reviews, and expert insights on the latest trends. Their membership program offers ad-free access to a variety of tech videos and podcasts. Members can enjoy exclusive video feeds, bonus content, and participate in a dedicated Discord community where they can chat with hosts and watch live show productions. 

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Prince Ohakam

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Gaming creator Prince Ohakam launched his channel membership in September 2020 and quickly saw success due to his loyal fanbase. He offers members-only live streams, videos, and the opportunity to play games with him directly. This personal connection has helped him build a strong community around his channel.

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How do you implement a successful membership program?

Here are a few tips for getting started:

1. Identify valuable exclusive content: Offer content that your audience can’t get elsewhere, such as behind-the-scenes footage, exclusive tutorials, or early access to videos. 
2. Set appropriate pricing tiers: Develop tiered pricing that reflects the value of the perks offered, from basic to premium options. 
3. Consistently deliver on promised perks: Maintain trust by reliably delivering the content and benefits promised at each membership level. Consistency is very important when building a community of members.
4. Engage regularly with members: Foster a sense of community by actively interacting with members through live chats, Q&A sessions, and personalized messages. Regular engagement keeps members invested and valued.

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What are YouTube Channel Memberships?

YouTube provides its own native membership program for creators, but it’s important to understand its features and limitations:

• Eligibility requirements: A channel must meet the subscriber thresholds (1,000+ for gaming channels, 30,000+ for others) to qualify for memberships.
• Fees: YouTube takes 30% of membership fees, whereas other platforms can take less of a cut from creators.
• Customizability: YouTube provides a one-size-fits-all package when it comes to memberships. If you're looking for greater flexibility in designing your membership experience and integrating it with your website, then you might want to consider some of the membership program alternatives.
• Email marketing tools: Some platforms include tools for engaging with your audience via email campaigns.
• Ability to offer downloadable content: Platforms like Patreon and Memberful support downloadable content, adding value to membership packages.

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What are the best membership platforms for creators?

Memberful

Memberful offers deep integration with your website and a straightforward setup. Their platform has it all for every type of creator out there. You can check out the range of ways creators have used their platform here.

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Key features include:

• Website integration: Seamlessly incorporate membership functionality into your existing site.
• Payment processing: Built-in support for various payment methods.
• Content protection: Easily restrict access to specific content for members only.
• Customization: Ability to maintain your brand identity throughout the membership experience.

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Patreon

Patreon is known for its flexible tiering and robust community tools.

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Key features include:

• Customizable membership tiers: Creators can offer multiple levels of support with different perks.
• Community features: Discussion boards, polls, and direct messaging to engage with patrons.
• Content delivery options: Ability to share exclusive posts, videos, and audio content.
• Analytics: Detailed insights into patron behavior and earnings.

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Substack

Substack offers all kinds of paid features for creators.

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Key features include:

• Newsletter-centric approach: Streamlined tools for creating and distributing email content.
• Paid subscription model: Easy setup for recurring revenue from subscribers.
• Web presence: Automatic creation of a website to showcase your newsletter archive.
• Simplicity: User-friendly interface designed for writers and journalists.

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Looking to only sell digital downloads? Check out Sendowl or Gumroad for other solutions.

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Each of these platforms offers unique features that cater to different creator needs, from community-building to content monetization. The choice depends on your specific goals, content type, and desired level of control over the membership experience.

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How much should I charge for my membership?

Pricing depends on the perceived value of your content and your audience's willingness to pay. YouTube permits a range from $0.99 to $99.99 per month. Many creators start with lower tiers ($4.99-$9.99) and include higher tiers for more exclusive perks. Get to know your audience better to understand what kind of pricing would work for them.

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Make that $$$$

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Memberships and subscriptions are a great way for creators to boost their income and strengthen their bond with fans. By offering exclusive content and behind-the-scenes experiences, many creators have turned their most loyal followers into dedicated supporters.

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Whether you go with YouTube's built-in membership feature or explore platforms like Memberful, the magic happens when you deliver real value to your members. Stay authentic to your brand, keep the content top-notch, and watch your community thrive.

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