Instagram isn’t all about scrolling. You can make this platform into a money-making machine!

With 2 billion users spending over 100 minutes daily on the app, Instagram is set to generate $66.9 billion in ad revenue by 2024.

But here’s the real question: How do YOU make it?

From creator tools to brand promotions, Instagram offers multiple ways to monetize your content. Whether you’re a creator, influencer, or small business owner, 2025 is YOUR year to turn likes into dollars. In this blog, we will share exactly how to get monetized on Instagram in 2025.

Ready to earn on Instagram? Let’s make it happen! 

Top 5 Ways to Get Monetized on Instagram

Instagram offers multiple monetization opportunities for creators, allowing you to turn your content into a steady income stream. Whether you're an influencer, entrepreneur, or content creator, there are various ways to make money on the platform. Here are the top methods to generate income from Instagram in 2025:

1. Earn Money Through Instagram Creator Marketplace

Instagram’s Creator Marketplace is a platform where brands and influencers can connect for paid collaborations. It allows businesses to find creators who align with their target audience and negotiate partnerships.

How to Get Started with the Instagram Creator Marketplace

• Switch to a Creator or Business Account

• Complete your creator profile with niche details

• Join the Creator Marketplace through Instagram settings

• Engage with brands that reach out for collaborations
  
  

Best Practices for Brand Collaborations

• Maintain an engaged audience (higher engagement = better brand deals)

• Be transparent about sponsorships using #ad or Instagram’s paid partnership tool

• Create high-quality, authentic content that aligns with brand goals
  

2. Earn Money with Instagram Badges in Live Videos

Instagram Badges allow followers to financially support creators during live sessions. Viewers can purchase badges that appear as hearts next to their names, showing their support while contributing to your earnings.

How to Enable Instagram Badges

1. Go to Professional Dashboard in Instagram settings

2. Click "Set Up Badges" (available in eligible countries)

3. Start a live video and encourage viewers to buy badges
   

Earnings from Badges

• $0.99, $1.99, or $4.99 per badge

• Instagram doesn’t take a cut (for now)

3. Earn Money with Instagram Gifts on Reels

Instagram Gifts is a new feature allowing followers to send virtual gifts to creators on Reels. Gifts are purchased using Instagram Stars, which can be converted into real money.

How to Enable Instagram Gifts

• Go to Settings → Professional Dashboard → Gifts

• Enable the feature and connect your payout account

• Post engaging Reels and encourage fans to send gifts

Earnings from Instagram Gifts

• Viewers buy Stars and send Gifts during Reels

• Instagram converts Stars into real earnings

• Payouts can be withdrawn through Meta Pay

4. Earn Money with Instagram Subscriptions

Instagram Subscriptions allow creators to earn recurring revenue by offering exclusive content to paying followers.

What You Can Offer Subscribers

• Exclusive posts & stories

• Subscriber-only badges

• Private reels & live streams

How to Set Up Instagram Subscriptions

1. Go to Settings → Professional Dashboard → Subscriptions

2. Choose a monthly price for your subscription

3. Create exclusive content for subscribers
   

Instagram Subscription Pricing

• Creators can charge $0.99 to $99.99 per month

• Instagram currently doesn’t take a commission (limited-time offer)

5. Earn Money with Instagram Bonuses

Instagram offers exclusive bonus programs to reward creators for their content performance. These bonuses are invite-only, meaning Instagram selects eligible creators based on factors like engagement, reach, and content quality. If you’re invited, you can earn extra payouts through various programs, including:

• Reels Play Bonus: Get paid for high-performing Reels based on views and engagement.

• Live Bonus: Earn money by hosting live streams and interacting with your audience.

• Ad Revenue Sharing: Make money from ads displayed on your content.

How to Qualify for Instagram Bonuses

Since these programs are not open to everyone, Instagram sends invites to selected creators. To check if you’re eligible:

1. Go to your Professional Dashboard and look for the Bonuses section.

2. Follow the program guidelines, including posting frequency and content requirements.

3. Stay consistent with high-quality content to increase your chances of getting invited.

The more engaging and high-quality your content, the better your chances of being selected for Instagram bonuses. So, keep creating and stay active! 

How Long Does It Take to Get Monetized on Instagram?

The time it takes to monetize your Instagram account can vary significantly based on several factors, including your strategy, niche, and engagement rate. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of what to expect and how you can potentially speed up the process:

 Timeframe for Monetization

• 1-3 Months: If you already have a strong personal brand and are consistently posting high-quality content, you may start seeing monetization opportunities relatively quickly. This is especially true if you’re leveraging existing influence or expertise in your niche.

• 6-12 Months: For those starting from scratch but with a clear monetization plan in place, this is a more realistic timeframe. Building an engaged audience takes time, but with consistent effort—such as posting regularly, engaging with followers, and optimizing your content for growth—you can begin to attract brand partnerships or sell products/services within this period.

  
  

• 12+ Months: If your growth is entirely organic and slow-paced, it may take over a year to reach a point where monetization becomes viable. This is common for creators who focus on gradual, sustainable growth without heavy investment in paid promotions or aggressive strategies.
  
  

How to Fast-Track Monetization on Instagram

If you’re looking to accelerate your journey toward monetization, here are some actionable steps to consider:

1. Create High-Quality, Engaging Content

Your content is the foundation of your Instagram presence. Focus on producing visually appealing, valuable, and relatable posts that resonate with your target audience. Experiment with different formats like Reels, Stories, and carousels to see what works best for your niche.

2. Grow Your Follower Base Strategically

While follower count isn’t everything, having a sizable and engaged audience is crucial for monetization. Use tactics like collaborating with micro-influencers, leveraging trending hashtags, and engaging authentically with your community to expand your reach.

3. Build Relationships with Brands & Businesses

Start networking with brands early on, even before you feel “ready” to pitch yourself. Engage with their content, tag them in relevant posts, and showcase how your values align with theirs. Once you’ve established credibility and trust, securing paid partnerships will become much easier.

By understanding the typical timelines and implementing these strategies, you’ll be better positioned to monetize your Instagram account efficiently while maintaining authenticity and long-term growth.

How to Get Monetized on Instagram in 2025: Strategies, Tips, and Opportunities for Creators

This detailed analysis explores how to get monetized on Instagram in 2025. Here, we cover top strategies and requirements. 

Primary Monetization Strategies

Sponsored Posts and Brand Partnerships

Sponsored posts are still one of the most reliable ways for influencers to cash in on Instagram. It’s pretty straightforward—brands pay you to promote their products or services to your audience. The more followers you have and the more engagement your posts get, the bigger the paycheck.

Think about it: brands are willing to invest serious money in creators who can connect with their audience authentically. And as we head into 2025, these opportunities are only getting better. Here’s a quick look at what creators could be earning soon:

Brands prioritize creators with high engagement rates (typically above 2.5%) over sheer follower count. To succeed in this space:

• Build a niche audience by focusing on specific topics like fitness, wellness, or lifestyle.

• Use Instagram Analytics to track performance and refine your strategy.

• Network with brands via influencer marketplaces like AspireIQ or Upfluence.

This method is particularly accessible for smaller accounts, making it an excellent starting point for those wondering how to generate income from Instagram.

Instagram's In-App Features

Instagram has introduced several built-in tools to help creators earn directly through the platform. These features come with specific requirements but offer recurring revenue streams and enhanced engagement opportunities.

Subscriptions

Launched in 2022 and expected to expand significantly by 2025, Instagram Subscriptions allow creators to offer exclusive content to paying subscribers. Key requirements include:

• Being at least 18 years old.

• Have a minimum of 10,000 followers.

• Using a Professional Account (Business or Creator).

• Compliance with Partner and Content Monetization Policies.

• Residing in supported countries (e.g., US, UK, Canada).
  

Creators can set subscription fees between $0.99 and $99.99 per month, making this ideal for fitness coaches who want to offer premium workout plans, personalized advice, or behind-the-scenes content. This feature addresses the common question: How many followers on Instagram to get monetized? With a threshold of 10,000 followers, it’s an achievable goal for dedicated creators.

Live Badges

During live streams, viewers can purchase badges to show support, appearing as hearts next to their comments. Requirements include:

• A minimum of 10,000 followers.

• A Professional Account.

• Availability in supported regions (initially the US, with global expansion underway).

By 2025, this feature will be available to all eligible creators, providing a seamless way to earn tips during live sessions. For fitness coaches, hosting live workouts or Q&A sessions can boost both engagement and income.

Instagram Shopping

For businesses selling physical or digital products, Instagram Shopping allows tagging items in posts and stories for direct sales. While there’s no follower minimum, other requirements include:

• A Business Account.

• A connected Facebook catalog.

• Compliance with commerce policies.

• Residency in a supported country.

Setting up involves linking your Instagram account to Facebook, enabling shopping features, and tagging products in your content. This tool aligns perfectly with how to sell on Instagram, especially for coaches promoting merchandise, supplements, or online courses.

How to Build Your Audience: The Essential Step to Monetizing on Instagram

To maximize your earning potential, focus on growing your follower base and improving engagement. Here’s how:

A. Consistent Content Creation

Post regularly and maintain a cohesive aesthetic. Experiment with different formats like Reels, Stories, and carousels to keep your feed dynamic.

B. Engage with Your Audience

Respond to comments, host Q&A sessions, and use polls to foster a sense of community. High engagement signals to both followers and brands that you’re trustworthy and influential.

C. Leverage Hashtags and SEO

Use relevant hashtags to increase discoverability. Add keywords naturally into your captions and bio.

D. Cross-Promote on Other Platforms

Share your Instagram content on TikTok, YouTube, or Pinterest to drive traffic back to your profile. Collaboration with other creators can also boost exposure.

Common Challenges Faced by Instagram Creators

Monetizing Instagram can be a rewarding journey, but like any venture, it comes with its own set of challenges. Here’s how you can tackle some of the most common obstacles and keep moving forward:

Challenge #1: Slow Growth

It’s frustrating when your follower count or engagement doesn’t grow as quickly as you’d hoped. But remember, slow growth isn’t necessarily a bad thing—it often means you’re building a more authentic and engaged audience.

Solution: Instead of obsessing over numbers, focus on creating content that truly resonates with a specific niche. Deliver consistent value by addressing their pain points, answering their questions, or entertaining them in a way that feels personal. Building meaningful connections will always outweigh chasing superficial metrics like follower count. Think quality over quantity.

Challenge #2: Algorithm Changes

Instagram’s algorithm is constantly evolving, which can feel unpredictable and even discouraging at times. One day, your posts are getting tons of reach, and the next, they seem to vanish into thin air.

Solution: Stay ahead of the curve by keeping an eye on Instagram’s updates and trends. If the platform starts favoring certain types of content—like Reels or Stories—adapt quickly. For instance, if video content is being prioritized, shift some of your energy toward creating engaging Reels. Flexibility is key to staying relevant and maintaining visibility.

Challenge #3: Balancing Creativity and Commerce

One of the trickiest parts of monetizing Instagram is finding the sweet spot between staying true to your creative voice and promoting your products or services. Too much promotion can alienate your audience, while too little might leave potential customers unaware of what you offer.

Solution: Blend promotional content seamlessly into your feed by making it feel natural and valuable. For example, give your audience a behind-the-scenes look at your process—whether it’s creating an online course, designing a product, or planning a project. This not only humanizes your brand but also builds curiosity and trust. When done right, your audience won’t see it as “selling” but as sharing something exciting and worthwhile.

By addressing these challenges head-on with thoughtful strategies, you’ll be better equipped to turn your Instagram presence into a sustainable source of income—all while staying true to your unique voice and vision.

So, How to Get Monetized on Instagram in 2025?

Instagram’s 2025 updates prioritize creativity and connection because it’s not about the number in 2025; it's all about the strategy and niche. Focus on high-quality content, engage your audience, and leverage platforms like EzyCourse to sell digital products easily. 

Whether you’re a fitness coach or a lifestyle creator, the strategies above can help you turn Instagram into a revenue stream.