5 Pros and Cons of MCN Partnerships for YouTubers
Explore the advantages and disadvantages of traditional MCNs versus Fundmates for YouTubers seeking funding and creative control.
Deciding between a traditional Multi-Channel Network (MCN) and a modern alternative like Fundmates depends on your goals as a YouTuber. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Traditional MCNs: Long contracts (3–5 years), take a percentage of all revenue (AdSense, sponsorships, merchandise), and may claim partial content ownership. They provide services like copyright protection, brand deals, and content strategy.
- Fundmates: Short-term contracts (6–24 months), only share AdSense revenue, and allow you to keep full ownership of your content. They also offer upfront funding ($30,000–$1M) and free growth tools like video editing and channel translation.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Traditional MCNs | Fundmates |
|---|---|---|
| Contract Length | 3–5 years | 6–24 months |
| Revenue Share | All income streams | AdSense only |
| Content Ownership | May license/claim rights | Creator keeps 100% ownership |
| Upfront Funding | Not provided | $30,000–$1M upfront funding |
| Support Services | Varies, may cost extra | Free tools included |
If you value short-term flexibility, keeping full control of your content, and upfront funding, Fundmates could be a better fit. For those seeking long-term partnerships and brand deal opportunities, traditional MCNs might work better.
Your choice depends on what matters most: creative freedom or structured support.
Should You Join a YouTube Multi Channel Network (MCN)?
1. MCN Structure and Services
Multi-Channel Networks (MCNs) offer a range of services designed to help YouTubers expand their reach and improve their content. These services typically fall into a few main categories.
| Service Category | Typical MCN Services | Benefits for Creators |
|---|---|---|
| Content Support | Video editing, thumbnail design | Better production quality |
| Technical Tools | Content ID system, block support | Improved rights management |
| Growth Services | Channel translation, content distribution | Access to a larger audience |
While traditional MCNs focus on these areas, newer platforms are simplifying the process. For example, Fundmates provides creators with free MCN access, content distribution, and channel translation, offering a more flexible approach.
Creators should carefully assess how these services align with their goals and the unique needs of their channels.
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2. Fundmates Platform Features
Fundmates provides an updated approach compared to traditional MCNs, offering creators upfront funding while allowing them to maintain full independence.
| Feature Category | Fundmates Approach | Traditional MCN Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Contract Length | 6-24 months | 3-5 years |
| Revenue Share | AdSense only | All revenue streams |
| Content Rights | Creator retains 100% ownership | May license or claim ownership |
| Payment Structure | Upfront funding ($30,000-$1M) | Regular revenue sharing |
| Growth Support | Free MCN benefits included | Often requires additional fees |
Fundmates stands apart by offering upfront funding that ranges from $30,000 to $1M, based on the creator's past performance. Instead of locking creators into long-term contracts, the platform uses short-term agreements with clear, capped payments.
Creators also gain access to several tools and services, including:
- MCN access
- Video editing
- Thumbnail design
- Growth consultation
- Content distribution
- Channel translation
For example, Pepe's Towing Service, a channel with 174,000 subscribers, was approved for funding and gained account access within a week. Creator David Miano highlighted the platform's impact:
"Meeting Fundmates helped me at a critical time. If you are a content creator seeking a quick influx of funds that will help you take your business up to the next level, I cannot think of a better source than Fundmates".
One standout feature is Fundmates' automatic disconnection after the agreed term ends. This ensures creators retain full control of their content and future earnings. As Fundmates puts it:
"You stay in the driver's seat of your content and channel. We're here to fuel your journey, not steer it".
Key Differences Between MCNs and Fundmates
How do traditional MCNs stack up against Fundmates? Let’s break it down. Below is a side-by-side comparison to highlight the major differences between these two platforms.
| Aspect | Traditional MCNs | Fundmates |
|---|---|---|
| Contract Duration | 3–5 years with limited exit options | 6–24 months |
| Revenue Model | Takes a percentage from all revenue streams (AdSense, sponsorships, merchandise) | Only shares AdSense revenue |
| Content Rights | May claim licensing rights or ownership | Creator maintains 100% ownership |
| Initial Investment | Usually no upfront funding | $30,000 to $1M upfront funding |
| Support Services | Often requires additional fees | Free access to MCN benefits |
| Growth Team | Variable access to resources | Dedicated team of 15+ video editors and experts |
What stands out? Fundmates puts creators first with shorter contracts, upfront funding, and a revenue model that lets you keep earnings from brand deals, merchandise, and more. Unlike MCNs, Fundmates focuses only on AdSense revenue sharing, giving creators more freedom and financial control.
Their support system is another game-changer. Fundmates offers a full suite of services - video editing, thumbnail design, growth consultation, content distribution, and even channel translation - at no additional cost. Their team has already worked with over 1,500 channels, with their thumbnail designers alone serving 500+ channels.
"Fundmates doesn't license or own your catalog - EVER - so all your growth and success remains yours"
One success story is TEKNIQ, an automotive channel with over 650,000 subscribers. After partnering with Fundmates, they were able to reinvest significantly more into their projects, thanks to the platform’s creator-focused model.
Conclusion
After exploring both options, here's the takeaway: if maintaining control over your creative process and accessing funding quickly appeals to you, Fundmates could be a great fit. For those looking for established brand partnerships and are fine with longer-term commitments, traditional MCNs might align better with your goals.
Think about what matters most to you. As Nick Nimmin, a well-known YouTube growth expert, puts it:
"They're not just helping you on the funding side, they're helping you as a PARTNER to legitimately help you succeed".
Both approaches can work alongside your current business setup. Focus on your priorities to decide which route will help your channel grow the way you envision.