With the rise of the video-star comes the Multi-Channel Networks (MCNs). As revenue opportunities continue to increase on online video platforms such as YouTube, so do the availability of MCNs designed to work with video producers to make, promote, and maximize their monetizing opportunities in exchange for a percentage of the revenue.
As a channel’s views and subscriptions increase, a producer is more likely to find themselves with an offer from one of these MCNs, sometimes with more than one.
Flattering – yes, but not without risk.
These agreements come in a wide variety of formats and are not standardized. Some agreements charge one percentage that seems high, but when compared to others terms it is a great deal; others may lay claims to your intellectual property rights after the agreement is done; some may provide great opportunities to learn, while others provide no real benefit in exchange for the revenue share. In short, they can be confusing and sometimes outright misleading.
As a result, it is extremely important to understand these agreements BEFORE you sign-up (getting out of them after the fact can be far more costly than they are worth). Kunkle Trademark & Legal has reviewed many of these agreements and advised clients on their terms, and can help you to be clear on what they say before committing to long term arrangement.
If you have been offered a deal, contact me today to discuss how I can help you protect yourself.