Multi-Channel Network

MCNs sit between the creator and YouTube, usually taking a percentage of the creator's revenue before passing it on, with money flowing through the network's AdSense account and analytics access included. YouTube does not endorse them, says plainly that nobody needs one to succeed, and points out that joining changes nothing about your revenue split with YouTube itself.

The contract is where the damage happens. Terms can run for years, cover channels you have not created yet and be difficult to exit, so treat any offer as a legal document and have it read before you sign.