Growing a YouTube Channel With No Money Using AI Tools

Author

JSW
November 23, 2024

Note: The links below are NOT affiliate links! This is the AI tool I am using to grow my niche channels — and I just like it!

Starting a YouTube channel with no budget is not just possible; it's becoming easier thanks to the power of AI. Whether you're working with minimal resources or just starting out, AI can handle scriptwriting and voiceovers effortlessly.

Here's how you can leverage tools like ChatGPT, ElevenLabs, Play.ht, and TubeBuddy to grow a successful YouTube channel, starting with Shorts before expanding into long-form content.

Step 1: Create Scripts Using AI

AI tools like ChatGPT are game changers when it comes to creating engaging YouTube scripts. Whether you're crafting a how-to video, an inspiring story, or commentary, ChatGPT can save hours by generating a polished script in seconds.

Why Use ChatGPT?

  • It’s fast: You can create scripts effortlessly without brainstorming for hours.

  • It’s versatile: Ask ChatGPT to write in any tone, style, or niche, and it delivers.

  • It’s cost-effective: There’s no need to hire writers or buy expensive tools.

For example, if you’re targeting women in their 30s and 40s looking for love, as I do, you can use ChatGPT to create emotionally resonant scripts that speak directly to their needs.

Simply provide prompts like: "Write a script about dating tips for women over 35 looking for a meaningful connection."

You can also create images (or thumbnails) in ChatGPT now!

Step 2: AI-Powered Voiceovers

Once you have your script, the next step is generating a voiceover. Tools like ElevenLabs and Play.ht are excellent for creating realistic AI voices, but there are a few tips to maximize their potential.

ElevenLabs

  • Offers high-quality, natural-sounding voices.

  • You can sign up with different Google accounts about five times before they flag your IP address. Each account allows you to create roughly 20 YouTube Shorts before needing another workaround. Be mindful of this and rotate your accounts to keep the free usage flowing.

  • Free and reliable for unlimited voiceovers if you use multiple accounts.

  • You can create unlimited accounts using different email providers (Google, Yahoo, Outlook) and free SMS verification services to bypass phone verification.

  • Be aware of Play.ht's enunciation quirks. Always listen to the voiceovers because the tool occasionally mispronounces words. It’s free, but attention to detail is necessary.

Both tools allow you to create professional-quality videos without hiring voice actors. Plus, they’re great for beginners who need to keep costs down.

Step 3: Start With YouTube Shorts

If you’re new to YouTube, start with Shorts. These bite-sized videos (under 60 seconds) are easier to produce, require less commitment, and have better visibility on the platform. The algorithm favors Shorts because they capture attention quickly, making them ideal for building an audience.

Why Shorts Work

  • They’re easier to rank compared to long-form content.

  • They don’t require an established audience to get views.

  • They’re great for testing your content and niche.

With 20 Shorts created using ElevenLabs or Play.ht, you can quickly gauge what resonates with your audience. Once you see what works, you can transition into longer videos.

Step 4: Optimize Your Content With TubeBuddy

TubeBuddy is a free browser extension that helps with SEO and ranking insights for your videos. It allows you to see how well your content aligns with keywords and provides suggestions to improve your title, tags, and descriptions.

  • Use TubeBuddy to find low-competition keywords in your niche.

  • Analyze how your Shorts are performing and adapt based on audience engagement.

Consistency is key. Just as you would write articles daily to build momentum, you need to post videos regularly to stay relevant. Schedule your content ahead of time using YouTube’s built-in scheduling tool. Dedicate one day a week to planning and creating multiple videos, then drip-feed them over the next few days.

Step 5: Niche Down for Success

The most critical step to growing on YouTube is finding a specific niche. Going too broad will pit you against large channels with more resources, making it harder to stand out.

In my experience, niching down works wonders. For example, I focus on women in their 30s and 40s looking for love. This narrow focus allows me to connect with an audience that feels spoken to directly. If I had aimed at “dating advice for everyone,” I’d be competing with massive creators and struggling to gain traction.

Some tips for niching down:

  • Think about who your content is for. Who is your ideal viewer?

  • Research your competition and look for gaps in their content.

  • Stick to your niche. Consistency builds recognition and trust.

If you’re unsure of your niche, start by creating Shorts on a few topics. Pay attention to which ones perform best and double down on that subject.

Final Thoughts

Growing a YouTube channel with no money isn’t just doable; it’s exciting when you combine creativity with AI. By leveraging tools like ChatGPT, ElevenLabs, Play.ht, and TubeBuddy, you can produce professional-quality content at no cost. The key is consistency, smart strategy, and a willingness to adapt.

Your Action Plan:

  1. Write your scripts with ChatGPT.

  2. Use ElevenLabs or Play.ht for voiceovers.

  3. Start with YouTube Shorts to gain visibility.

  4. Optimize with TubeBuddy and stay consistent.

  5. Find a niche and own it.

Remember, success doesn’t come overnight, but with dedication and daily content creation, you’ll build momentum. If I can make money on ClickBank by targeting a specific audience, you can do the same on YouTube. Now, start creating!