Licensing a Creator Brand, Character or Style for Royalties
Originally published Sep 16, 2026 — Sean Dollwet
Sean Dollwet · 5 Digital Products That Will Make The Most Money in 2027 ↗
One of 4 ideas covered in this video
You build something other companies want to use, such as a recognizable character, art style, brand or system, and license the rights to manufacturers or publishers. They pay a flat fee or ongoing royalties to put your name or look on their products.
The presenter calls this about as passive as income gets once a deal is in place: no new content or monthly tasks, just royalties on something already built. He points to big licensors like Pokemon, Disney and Marvel, and to MrBeast extending his brand into Feastables and toys. His main point is that building a brand you own can be worth far more later than people expect at the start.
Creators who have already spent years building a recognizable brand, character or audience and are ready to negotiate with manufacturers or publishers.
The presenter is clear this is not a starting point: it takes years to build a brand that anyone would pay to license, and deals require contracts and legal help. The examples he gives are huge brands, which are not representative of what a typical creator could negotiate. Royalty rates, deal terms and how much ongoing promotion is expected vary widely, and he admits licensed creators often keep marketing the products. Treat this as a long-term goal that follows success in another business, not a side hustle in itself.