If you’re not accepted into Roku’s own ad program yet — or you’re running a custom Roku/Fire TV app outside of Direct Publisher — then this lesson is for you.
Third-party VAST-compliant ad networks let you monetise your videos by inserting ads using VAST ad tags. This gives you control over who you work with, what kind of ads show, and how you get paid.
💡 What Is a VAST Tag?
VAST stands for “Video Ad Serving Template.” It’s a standard URL provided by ad networks that delivers video ads to your app or feed.
When your Roku or Fire TV player sees this tag, it pauses the current video and plays the ad — then resumes playback.
👉 If your channel supports ad insertion (via JSON, MRSS, or SDK), you can use VAST tags immediately to start earning.
🎯 Top Third-Party Ad Networks for Roku/Fire TV Channels
| Ad Network | Key Features | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| SpringServe | Fast, easy VAST delivery + solid fill rates. Ideal for independent creators. | Simple application. Requires working video content and basic metrics. |
| SpotX (now part of Magnite) | Premium advertisers, high CPMs. Widely used on Roku. | Review process. Works best for channels with 1,000+ monthly views. |
| Broadpeak.io | Specializes in OTT/CTV ad delivery. Excellent API support. | Mid-level technical setup. Often used with SDK-based apps. |
| Pubmatic | Premium demand, real-time bidding, strong reporting tools. | Application and integration required. Better for scaling channels. |
| Google Ad Manager | Supports VAST 4.0, ideal if you already run YouTube/Google ads. | Requires a technical setup and domain ownership. Advanced users only. |
🧰 How to Apply and Get Approved
Each ad network has a slightly different application process, but they all want to see:
- A live video channel or app (on Roku, Fire TV, or web)
- Content you own or are licensed to use
- Minimum traffic (some require 1,000+ views/month)
- Ability to insert VAST tags in your player or feed
Example application intro email:
Hi [Network Name] team,
I run a streaming channel on Roku/Fire TV called [Your Channel Name]. We serve original content in the [Niche] space, and are interested in monetising via your VAST ad solution. Please let me know the requirements or next steps to get started.
Thanks,
Dennis Rocke
🔗 How to Use a VAST Tag in Your Feed
Once accepted, you’ll get a tag like:
https://ads.network.com/vast?placement_id=12345
You can then insert it into your feed like this:
<media:ad>
<vastAdTag>https://ads.network.com/vast?placement_id=12345</vastAdTag>
</media:ad>
Or inside your JSON like this:
"adBreaks": [300, 900],
"adTag": "https://ads.network.com/vast?placement_id=12345"Some ad networks also let you specify frequency caps, category filters, and geo-targeting to customise your ad experience.
📈 Pro Tips to Maximise Revenue
- Target High-CPM Niches: Health, finance, fitness, and parenting often earn more.
- Keep Videos Long: The more time people watch, the more ads you can show.
- Insert Mid-Roll Breaks: Viewers are less likely to skip mid-rolls than pre-rolls.
- Test Different Networks: Some ad networks fill better in different countries.
🧠 Summary
- You don’t have to wait for Roku Ads — you can monetise today using third-party ad networks.
- VAST tags are the bridge between your videos and real ad revenue.
- Apply to 2–3 networks, embed your tags, and monitor your performance weekly.
Next Up: In Lesson 23, we’ll show you how to embed sponsor messages and affiliate promos into your content using overlays, intros, and QR codes.
— End of Lesson 22
