Spotify Partner Program Expands: Lower Eligibility & New Video Publishing Tools
What's New
- • Eligibility thresholds lowered to 1,000 engaged audience members
- • New sponsorship management tools launching April 2026
- • Spotify Distribution API for publishing from Acast, Audioboom, Libsyn, Omny, and Podigee
- • Celebrating first anniversary of the Spotify Partner Program
Lower Eligibility: More Creators Can Join
One year after launching the Spotify Partner Program, Spotify is making it easier for video podcast creators to turn their passion into sustainable income. The platform announced significant reductions in eligibility requirements, opening doors for emerging creators.
New Eligibility Requirements
Engaged Audience Members
2,000 → 1,000 plays over the last 30 days
Hours Consumed
10,000 hours → 2,000 hours over the last 30 days
Published Episodes
12 episodes → 3 episodes (all time)
Check eligibility at Spotify for Creators
Flexible Sponsorship Management (April 2026)
Starting in April 2026, Spotify is introducing powerful new sponsorship tools that give creators more control over their revenue streams without the hassle of re-editing episodes.
New Sponsorship Features
Easy Sponsor Updates
Remove, replace, and add host-read sponsorships in video episodes instantly
Scheduled Changes
Schedule sponsorship updates ahead of time for timely messaging
Performance Tracking
Track how each sponsorship performed over time with new delivery metrics
Spotify Distribution API: Publish from Any Platform
The new Spotify Distribution API allows video creators to publish and monetize content on Spotify directly from their existing hosting platforms without changing workflows or re-uploading content.
Launch Partners
More platforms joining soon
What Creators Get
- Publish video to Spotify without switching hosting platforms
- Earn Premium video revenue from uninterrupted viewing
- Earn ad revenue when fans watch on the free version
- Access new sponsorship management tools
Industry Reactions
"Acast has always believed in giving podcasters choice, empowering them to be heard and make money wherever their audience is. As the industry evolves, we're bringing the same flexibility to video."
— Greg Glenday, CEO of Acast
"As the world's largest video podcast network, this new offering allows us to support creators in both growing their audiences and unlocking additional revenue opportunities."
— Stuart Last, CEO of Audioboom
Why This Matters
These updates represent Spotify's commitment to building a sustainable creator economy for video podcasters. By lowering barriers to entry, improving sponsorship flexibility, and enabling cross-platform publishing, Spotify is positioning itself as a more creator-friendly platform in the competitive podcasting landscape.
According to Spotify, loyal fans on the platform stream nearly 20 times more of a show compared to casual listeners and are 2.5 times more likely to stick around after six months—making it an attractive destination for creators seeking engaged audiences.
Ready to Join Spotify Partner Program?
Check if you're eligible and start monetizing your video podcast on Spotify today.