In Brief (TL;DR)
This complete 2025 earnings guide reveals how to turn your short-form videos on TikTok and YouTube Shorts into a source of profit, analyzing the requirements of official programs and strategies to maximize revenue.
In this guide, we’ll explore the eligibility requirements and the most effective strategies to turn your views into real earnings.
We will explore the requirements, the differences between monetization programs, and strategies to maximize your profits on both platforms.
The devil is in the details. 👇 Keep reading to discover the critical steps and practical tips to avoid mistakes.
In the digital age, short-form videos have become an art form and a potential source of income. Platforms like TikTok and YouTube Shorts dominate the scene, offering content creators in Italy and Europe unique opportunities to turn creativity into profit. This article explores how to monetize short-form videos, with a special focus on the European market and Mediterranean culture, where the fusion of tradition and innovation creates unique and engaging content. Whether you’re an aspiring influencer or a professional looking for new strategies, this guide will provide you with the tools to navigate the world of short-form video monetization.
The social media landscape is constantly evolving, and with it, the strategies for earning money online. TikTok, with over 1.6 billion active users globally, and YouTube Shorts, backed by the Google ecosystem, are two prime channels. In Italy, TikTok has seen exponential growth, reaching nearly 20 million active users—a vast and diverse audience ready to engage with original content. Understanding the monetization mechanisms of these platforms is the first step to building a profitable and sustainable digital presence over time.
The Basics of Monetization: TikTok vs. YouTube Shorts
To start earning on TikTok and YouTube Shorts, it’s crucial to know the official programs and their eligibility requirements. Both platforms have developed systems to reward creators, albeit with different approaches. The choice between the two, or the decision to use both, will depend on your goals, the type of content you produce, and the audience you intend to reach. Let’s analyze in detail the opportunities offered by each platform in the Italian and European context.
Monetization Programs on TikTok
TikTok offers several tools for direct and indirect monetization. The main program is the Creator Rewards Program, which replaced the previous “Creator Fund.” To be eligible, Italian creators must be at least 18 years old, have a minimum of 10,000 followers, and have accumulated at least 100,000 video views in the last 30 days. Another key requirement is creating original videos longer than one minute. In addition to this, there are other ways to earn, such as the Creator Marketplace for brand collaborations, donations during live streams (LIVE Gifts), and selling products. These options allow for revenue diversification, a crucial aspect for long-term sustainability.
Monetization Programs on YouTube Shorts
YouTube has integrated Shorts into its well-established YouTube Partner Program (YPP). To monetize Shorts, a creator must be part of the YPP. The requirements include reaching 1,000 subscribers and, alternatively, either 4,000 public watch hours on long-form videos in the last 365 days or 10 million public Shorts views in the last 90 days. Once accepted, creators earn through a share of the ad revenue generated from ads viewed between Shorts in the feed. YouTube pools this revenue and distributes it to eligible creators based on their share of total views. Although the RPM (Revenue Per Mille) for Shorts is generally lower than for traditional videos, their viral potential can compensate with very high view volumes.
Content Strategies: Tradition and Innovation in the Mediterranean Market
In the Italian and European context, content that blends tradition and innovation is highly successful. Mediterranean culture, rich in history, art, gastronomy, and unique landscapes, offers an inexhaustible source of ideas. Creators can tell stories of local traditions with a modern twist, showcase ancient crafts with innovative filming techniques, or reinterpret classic recipes in a short, dynamic format. This approach not only attracts a national audience connected to their roots but also fascinates international viewers curious to discover the authenticity of Italian culture. A practical example could be a video showing how to make fresh handmade pasta, combining a grandmother’s wisdom with the fast-paced, rhythmic editing typical of TikTok.
Innovation lies not only in the content but also in the form. Using the latest audio trends, the visual effects available on the platforms, and participating in current challenges can exponentially increase visibility. For example, a creator could use a modern remix of a popular Italian song for a video showcasing the beauty of an ancient village. This combination bridges the past and present, making tradition accessible and interesting even for younger generations. The key to success is finding a balance, staying authentic while being open to experimentation. Sharing your uniqueness, whether it’s a passion, a craft, or the culture of your region, is a powerful strategy for turning passions into profit.
Beyond Direct Monetization: Building an Earnings Ecosystem
Relying solely on creator funds or ad revenue sharing can be limiting. The most successful creators build a complete earnings ecosystem around their online presence. This multifaceted approach ensures greater financial stability and opens up new opportunities for professional growth. Sponsorships and brand partnerships are one of the most significant income sources. Companies are constantly looking for creators whose values and audience align with their products, especially in niches that value authenticity and quality.
Other effective strategies include affiliate marketing, where you earn a commission by promoting third-party products, and selling your own products or services. Whether it’s custom merchandise, online courses, consultations, or handmade products, short-form videos become a showcase to promote your offerings to an already loyal audience. Donations during live streams on TikTok also represent an income source based on direct community support. Diversifying your income streams is a fundamental strategic move, and for those just starting, learning about how apps for earning money online work can offer a broader view of the available possibilities.
Tax and Management Aspects of Online Earnings
When you start monetizing your creator activity, it’s crucial not to overlook the tax and legal aspects. Earnings generated through TikTok, YouTube, and other online platforms are, for all intents and purposes, income and must be declared as such. In Italy, the tax regulations for digital creators can seem complex, but getting informed is the first step to operating legally. Generally, if the activity is carried out on a regular and continuous basis, you are required to register for a VAT number (Partita IVA). Depending on your turnover, you can opt for different tax regimes, such as the flat-rate regime (regime forfettario), which offers benefits for new entrepreneurs.
It is advisable to consult an accountant specializing in the digital sector for personalized advice and to understand all the necessary requirements. This professional can guide you in choosing the most appropriate ATECO code, managing social security contributions, and correctly filing your tax returns. Addressing these aspects seriously from the beginning helps avoid future problems and allows you to focus on growing your creative project. Transparent management is also a sign of professionalism towards business partners and your community. To learn more, it’s useful to consult specific guides on taxes and laws related to earnings from apps.
Conclusion
Monetizing short-form videos on TikTok and YouTube Shorts in 2025 is a real opportunity for creators in Italy and Europe. Success comes not just from the virality of a single piece of content, but from the ability to build a solid, long-term strategy. This involves understanding monetization programs, creating original content that blends tradition and innovation, and diversifying income sources. Mediterranean culture offers a unique competitive advantage, allowing for the creation of authentic and engaging narratives. Professionally handling the tax aspects is the final piece of the puzzle to turn a passion into a real business. With dedication, creativity, and strategy, the world of short-form video can become a source of great personal and financial satisfaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
To monetize on YouTube Shorts, you must join the YouTube Partner Program (YPP). The requirements are to have at least 1,000 subscribers and either 10 million valid public Shorts views in the last 90 days or 4,000 public watch hours on long-form videos in the last year. For TikTok, the relevant program is the Creator Rewards Program (formerly known as the Creativity Program). To be eligible, you must be at least 18 years old, have a minimum of 10,000 followers, and have accumulated at least 100,000 video views in the last 30 days. Additionally, the program specifically rewards original videos that are longer than one minute.
Earnings vary greatly based on factors like the audience’s geographic location and the type of content. For YouTube Shorts, the payout per 1,000 views (RPM) in Italy can range from a few cents (€0.03-€0.06) up to about €0.16. This means one million views could generate between €10 and €60. On TikTok, with the Creator Rewards Program, estimates suggest earnings can range from €0.50 to €1.00 per 1,000 views for eligible videos. Some reports suggest payouts can be even higher, but they strongly depend on the video’s quality and length.
There’s no definitive answer, as it depends on the creator’s strategy. Generally, the direct earnings potential per thousand views (RPM) appears to be higher on TikTok with its Creator Rewards Program for high-quality, longer videos. However, YouTube Shorts offers a more structured and integrated monetization model within the YouTube ecosystem, which includes ad revenue sharing (45% of net revenue goes to creators) and the ability to also earn from views by YouTube Premium subscribers. The best choice depends on whether you’re aiming for rapid virality (often easier on TikTok) or more stable, integrated growth with long-form content (which is advantageous on YouTube).
Yes, if your content creation activity becomes continuous and not just occasional, it is mandatory to register for a VAT number (Partita IVA) in Italy. An activity is considered continuous when it is not sporadic but is carried out regularly with the intent to generate a stable income, regardless of exceeding the €5,000 annual threshold, which is often mistakenly cited as the sole criterion. For those starting out, the flat-rate tax regime (regime forfettario) can be advantageous, offering a reduced tax rate of 5% or 15% on a calculated tax base. It is always advisable to consult an accountant to assess your specific situation.
Yes, you can post the same video on both platforms to maximize visibility and earning potential. However, it’s crucial to comply with each platform’s policies. For example, to be monetized on YouTube, the video must not contain watermarks or logos from other platforms like TikTok. Many creators slightly adapt their content to optimize it for each social network’s specific algorithm and audience. For instance, they might use popular music or trends on one platform that don’t have the same resonance on the other. This strategy allows you to leverage the strengths of both ecosystems.
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