How to make money with a small gaming channel
Ways small YouTube, Twitch and TikTok gaming creators earn money before sponsors call: affiliate links, keys, and getting paid per Steam wishlist.
Updated
Why sponsors skip small channels
Most sponsorships are priced by views, so brands go to big channels. A small channel can still drive real action, though: an audience that trusts you and plays what you play.
Ways small channels earn
- Platform revenue once you qualify: YouTube Partner Program, Twitch Affiliate, TikTok creator programs.
- Affiliate links for gear and games you actually use.
- Free keys from developers and key networks, which pay in games rather than money.
- Per-result deals: you get paid for what your audience does, not for your follower count.
Get paid per Steam wishlist
Indie studios on Wishlistme post jobs with a price per wishlist. Some jobs have no minimum audience, so a small channel can claim a slot, cover the game, and earn for every wishlist Steam verifies from its link. See how creators get paid per wishlist.
You keep the full rate shown on the job. See open jobs.