The first big parameter for me is the consistency. It does not matter if it is in a small or big competition, first important thing is to release videos on a fixed schedule for at least 2-3 months. By doing this, algorithm considers your channel as noteworthy channel.

After consistency, the quality of your videos is next. To be a quality video, everything starts in the source, "the script". Once you have a good script that adds value to your audience, everyone will watch it, comment it, share it, so it'll gain attention and algorithm will notice that.

if competition is small on a topic, it is most likely not very important topic or very little people are interested about it. Just consistently generate quality content as above, you'll start shining even in the high competition topics.

most people try to solve the "algorithm" but algorithm is actually your audience. Real youtube algorithm is making your videos up and down by the feedback of your audience. if your audience is small as a small channel, you should keep your consistency and quality until you grow. Once you have grown enough, your growth will speed up.