How to price a brand deal for a 30-second YouTube Short when you have 120K subs?

Congrats on the first offer! $300 for 120K subs is definitely on the low side, especially if your average views are 80K. Standard CPM for Shorts is around $0.10–$0.30, but brand deals are usually priced based on views, not subs. A common formula is $10–$20 per 1,000 views. With 80K avg views, that’s $800–$1,600. Even if you discount for a first deal, I’d counter at $800 flat, or $500 + a $0.02 per view bonus above 100K views. Also, ask for a 30-day exclusivity window and usage rights limited to their channels only. You can negotiate – they expect you to!

I agree with lenswizard, but also consider the niche. Mobile game sponsors often have higher budgets but also expect performance. Since you have a few viral Shorts, you can leverage that – mention your 500K+ videos. Also, don’t forget to ask for a free premium account as a bonus, not part of the payment. And always get a written contract with clear deliverables (e.g., one Short, 30 seconds max, no repurposing without permission). I’d also suggest asking for a flat fee of $600 and a $0.01 per view bonus above 150K views – that way you’re covered if it flops.

Great points so far. One thing to add: make sure the brand doesn’t ask for exclusivity across all your content – that would kill your channel. Limit exclusivity to the product category for 30 days. Also, specify that the video is a paid partnership and must be disclosed with #ad to comply with FTC. For pricing, I’d use a rate card based on your average views and engagement rate. If you have high engagement (likes/comments per view), you can charge a premium. I’d counter at $700 flat, and if they push back, settle at $500 with a bonus. Don’t undersell yourself – your audience is the product.

As an editor, I see the production side too. For a 30-second Short, you’ll spend 2-4 hours scripting, filming, and editing. At a minimum, factor in your hourly rate. $300 is less than $100/hour – not worth it. Also, check if they want any revisions – include that in the contract (e.g., 2 rounds of revisions max). And remember, they’re paying for your creativity and audience trust, not just the video. I’d ask for $800 flat, or $500 + a CPM bonus. Also, ask for a 60-day payment term – not 90!

Thanks everyone! This is super helpful. I countered at $700 flat with a $0.01 per view bonus above 120K views, and they accepted! I also got the exclusivity limited to the game category for 30 days and a 60-day payment term. I’m glad I asked – they didn’t even blink. Appreciate the advice, you guys are the best!