Spotify for Creators, formerly Spotify for Podcasters and before that Anchor, is Spotify’s free podcast hosting platform. Shows hosted there can apply to the Spotify Partner Program, which pays creators in two ways: a share of ad revenue and payouts based on how much Spotify Premium users watch their video episodes. Spotify lowered the entry bar in January 2026 and is expanding the program to more than 35 new countries this autumn, including Spain, Italy, Brazil and Mexico.
At a glance
| What it is | Free podcast hosting with a revenue program |
| Program | Spotify Partner Program |
| Listeners needed | 1,000 engaged listeners in 30 days |
| Hours needed | 2,000 consumption hours in 30 days |
| Episodes needed | 3 published |
| Ad share | 50% of the ad revenue Spotify recognizes |
| Video payouts | Based on Premium video engagement |
| Payouts | Stripe or Spotify Payouts |
How it works
You host your show on Spotify for Creators, publish at least three episodes and build to 1,000 engaged listeners and 2,000 hours of consumption in 30 days. When you qualify, you apply from the Monetize section. Once accepted, Spotify can place ads in your episodes, on Spotify and on other apps, and pays you half the ad revenue it recognizes. If you publish video, you also earn when Premium subscribers watch it. Spotify counts a stream after 60 seconds.
You keep 100% of any sponsorship deals you arrange yourself. To stay in the program, your show must earn at least $10 in any six-month period.
Countries
The program launched in the US, UK, Canada and Australia, then expanded across Europe and the Nordics. In September 2026 Spotify announced more than 35 new markets, including Spain, Italy, Brazil, Mexico, Poland and Colombia, from 20 October 2026. Check the Monetize page for your country.
Video matters
Spotify is pushing video podcasts hard, and video shows in the program grow faster. If you can film your episodes, you unlock the second income stream.
What you can realistically earn
Small shows earn modest sums. Spotify does not publish a per-listen rate, but says total payouts to enrolled shows rose by more than a third after the 2026 eligibility change.
Getting started
Create a free account, upload three episodes, add video if you can and promote the show where your listeners already are. Connect Stripe or set up Spotify Payouts early.
Common mistakes
Some podcasters publish irregularly, which kills engaged listener numbers. Others upload audio only and miss the video payouts. Moving hosts later can be work, so decide early if Spotify for Creators suits you.
Keeping track
Spotify for Creators shows engaged listeners and consumption hours in its analytics. Check them weekly as you approach the thresholds, and note which episodes bring new followers so you can make more like them.
Is it worth it?
For most new podcasters, yes. Hosting costs nothing, and the 2026 thresholds are reachable for a consistent show. The main trade-off is that your show must be hosted on Spotify’s own platform to join the program.
Final tip
Record a short video version of each episode, even with a simple setup. Video both qualifies you for Premium payouts and helps the show get discovered on Spotify’s video feed.
Combining income streams
The Partner Program works alongside your own sponsorships, which you keep in full, and alongside subscriptions through Spotify Open Access partners such as Patreon. Many podcasters use Spotify payouts as a base and build sponsorships on top.
Owen’s take
For a new podcaster, free hosting plus a realistic path to payment is hard to beat. If you can do video, the case gets stronger.
Who it suits
It suits new and growing podcasters, especially those willing to film. It suits less well shows that want full control over ad sales on every platform.
Similar options
- Acast offers a large ad marketplace.
- Buzzsprout has simple one-click ads.
- RedCircle offers free hosting with ads.
- YouTube pays video podcasts through YPP.
More options are in Podcasting.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Free hosting
- Low entry bar since 2026
- Ads plus video payouts
Cons
- Must host on Spotify for Creators
- Country availability varies
- No published per-listen rate
FAQ
Is Spotify for Creators free?
Yes, hosting is free.
What do I need to join the Spotify Partner Program?
1,000 engaged listeners, 2,000 hours in 30 days and three episodes.
How much of the ad money do I get?
50% of the ad revenue Spotify recognizes.
Can I keep my own sponsors?
Yes, you keep 100% of sponsorships you arrange.
Is the program available in Spain?
Spotify announced Spain among the new markets from October 2026.
