Many people have questioned Google’s acquisition of YouTube, which sold for $1.65billion, as the site still hasn’t turned a profit… yet. According to sources that’s about to change significantly.

Doug Anmuth, from Barclays Capital, said today, “In 2010 we believe YouTube will start monetising more than 1 billion video views every week. We project YouTube to generate $700 million in revenue in 2010, up 55% Y/Y..”

While this is great news for Google, the figures should also emphasise the power of YouTube to small businesses hoping to reach a wider audience.

So this year, the smart money is on video as an aid to increase website conversion rates and attract visitors. We are seeing more video results blended into our search results and Google didn’t acquire YouTube just for fun!

Post a unique and informative video to YouTube or why not put your best sales person online and let them do the talking?

From viral campaigns that have become famous such as Blendtech with their own YouTube channel, to accountants using video testimonials we suggest that there is opportunity for every business here.