What to know about the Instagram Creator Fund
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Interested in learning about the Instagram Creator Fund? Maybe you've heard about it on the platform or are looking for viable ways to grow your account.
In this article, we'll explain everything you need to know about Instagram's Creator Fund. We'll cover several frequently asked questions, including how to get paid and who qualifies, so that you can decide if it is in the cards for you.
A note: Once you read through, you may be discouraged if your account doesn't qualify, but don't worry! Jump to the end of the article for extra resources on how to grow your Instagram account so that (one day) you will be eligible to apply for the Creator Fund.
What is the Instagram Creator Fund?
The Instagram Creator Fund is similar to Creator Funds on other social platforms like TikTok. These funds are set up to promote and incentivize exceptional content from Creators.
The goal is to fill the platform with a steady stream of amazing content to maintain the user base and attract new people to the platform. In the case of Instagram's Creator Fund, it is a push to draw Creators from other social media platforms onto Instagram.
This fund originates from Instagram's parent company, Meta, which plans to invest $1 billion into Creator accounts by the end of 2022.
While there are many ways to monetize your Instagram account, the Creator Fund is specifically funded directly through the platform.
Check out our Instagram digital marketing guide if you're just starting out.
What do Instagram Creators have to do?
Instagram Creators are the main drivers of popular content on the platform. It's their job to create content that generates millions of hits and reactions to keep people active on Instagram.
This happens in the form of posts, Instagram Lives, ads, collaborations, Reels and more. Bonus: Learn how to take advantage of Instagram Reels for your business.
A Creator account is different than an Instagram Business or Personal account. You may see content creators, influencers, personal brands and celebrities with a Creator account. You can actually have one too, but we'll get to that later.
These accounts typically include features that you won't find on business or personal accounts. Such exclusive features include:
- Highly detailed growth metrics
- Mass DM message management
- Templated DM responses
- Creator Studio (for desktop content creation)
- Profile information settings
- Product tagging for sales conversions
- Call-to-action buttons
You may not have a total grasp of what is possible with a Creator account until you qualify for one. However, do note that you may not be able to schedule posts on a Creator account or use post scheduling from a third-party software.
There are many types of Creators that you may see, including style experts, entertainers and artists. These Creators have major influence over the quality of the platform. Their posts, videos and Reels tend to gain major traction whenever they post. Get the details on how to hack the Instagram algorithm for better engagement!
Does the Instagram Creator Fund pay?
Money is building up in the fund, so who gets it? According to Meta, payouts from the fund happen when Creators meet certain milestones, such as a number of views and engagements.
Creators and influencers on other platforms, like TikTok and YouTube, may also get some pretty hefty payouts if they make the switch to Instagram. There have been some reports about massive payouts of $35,000 for mega-influencers and lesser payments, such as $600 for smaller accounts.
It's important to note that funding, Creator payouts and requirements are still being finalized, so don't be surprised if you see conflicting information from different sources.
What about Instagram Bonuses?
Instagram Creators can get paid via Instagram Bonuses. These are special programs where you can earn money by following all the rules of that Bonus.
Not sure if you qualify for an Instagram Bonus? The app will notify you if you meet the requirements.
Instagram launched Bonuses to pay out Creators who generate engaging content. There are various types of Bonuses, including going Live or posting awesome Reels (AKA the Reels Play Bonus). Instagram is looking to pay for content that rakes in millions of views.
Want to learn how to create engaging, high-converting Reels? Check out the latest 2022 Instagram Reels trends to see what works!
Who qualifies for the Instagram Creator Fund?
Let's make sure we're on the same page. To become an Instagram Creator, all you have to do is switch your account type in the app.
To earn payout opportunities within the Creator Fund, you'll have to be notified in the app that you're eligible for an Instagram Bonus.
Just like the TikTok Creator Fund, there are specific requirements that you have to meet to get a payout. These include:
- Achieving eligibility for the Bonus program (via invite)
- Accepting before the Bonus invite expires (in the app)
- Meeting all requirements for the specific Bonus
- Avoiding posts that are "misleading or inauthentic" (per Instagram)
Payout is usually calculated based on the number of views and other metrics. When you're enrolled in an Instagram Bonus program, you can track your progress to a payout using the insight tools in the app.
Worried that you'll never be approached to enroll in a Bonus? Don't worry! Jump down to the end of this article for further reading on how to build up your Instagram to qualify at a later time.
How to apply to become an Instagram Creator
If you're interested in becoming an Instagram Creator, luckily, there is no "application" process. All you have to do is switch your account type in the app. For many, you may currently be listed as a "Personal" or "Business" account. The "Creator" account is just another option.
To "make it big" as a Creator (and earn the potential for payouts), you need to make sure that you have stellar content on the platform. Plus, you need great engagement from users.
Want a little help with that? Check out some of our most popular Instagram articles to help your Instagram account grow!
How to create Instagram content that gets noticed
As you can see from everything we discussed above, it's essential that your account is filled with high quality content that keeps people engaged.
One of the best ways to get noticed on the platform is by posting Reels, which is Instagram's trendiest and fastest-growing feature.
When you use the Mojo video creation app, you get access to hundreds of stunning video templates to really impress your audience. Plus, it's super easy and quick to use. Just drag-and-drop your media, choose some audio and automatically generate auto captions if you want to.
Within minutes, you'll have original Instagram content that is optimized for the platform. In fact, you can optimize your videos for any platform, including TikTok, YouTube and more.
Looking to upgrade your social content? Subscribe to Mojo Pro today and get started!