YouTube’s official blog published a post on 12 October 2026 detailing the findings of a large‑scale consultation with creators across the continent. The initiative gathered input from 20,000 individuals who make a living through online content, providing a broad snapshot of the creator landscape in Europe.

According to the summary shared in the post, the collective output of these creators contributes more than €8.4 billion to the European Union’s gross domestic product. This figure underscores the economic significance of the sector, highlighting its role as a measurable driver of growth within the EU economy.

Despite this substantial contribution, the consultation revealed that many creators feel they are left out of the decision‑making processes that shape policies affecting their work. The sentiment of exclusion was a recurring theme among the respondents, suggesting a gap between the sector’s economic impact and its influence on regulatory or supportive measures.

To address these insights, YouTube announced the release of a new report titled “Creative Capital.” The document synthesizes the feedback from the 20,000 participants and aims to map out pathways for unlocking Europe’s creator potential. The report is presented as a resource for policymakers, platforms, and industry stakeholders seeking to align support mechanisms with creators’ needs.

The YouTube Blog post frames the consultation and the ensuing report as steps toward a more inclusive dialogue. By quantifying the sector’s GDP contribution and documenting creators’ perceptions of marginalization, the initiative seeks to inform future actions that could strengthen the creator economy while ensuring those who drive it have a voice in shaping its environment.