At some point, most Ning Creators will ask themselves a big question: Can I make money? Every network is unique, so there isn’t a simple answer. However, based on your answers to a few questions, we can help point you in the right direction.
Is your network nonprofit by nature?
Is your network nonprofit by nature?
Does your network have an altruistic mission? Did your members join to be activists for an issue or to support a cause? Whether you want to run a one-time fundraiser like PBS does or provide an ongoing revenue stream, the most lightweight and friendly way to raise revenue is to simply ask members to donate. Consider these options:
- Donation Button: check out our brief tutorial here for creating this button on your network. Once it’s created, copy the embed code and paste that into the HTML section of your Custom Page, or add it to any editable field on your network. This button will enable your members to donate generously to your network.
Is your network high on engagement?
Do your members visit on a daily or weekly basis? Do most of your members actively participate on your network? Is your network a one-of-a-kind community online? If so, consider these:
- Social activation campaigns: Brands are starting to experiment with new ways to increase their awareness within influential online communities like yours. If you opt in to participate, the brand may offer free samples of their product to your community and ask members to blog or post discussion topics about their experience. Or, they may offer to sponsor a photo or blogging contest on a topic related to the brand. Advertising rates can be 10x to 100x higher for this type of advertising program, which can be particularly attractive for smaller, highly active communities that don’t have a high volume of pageviews.
- Sell merchandise related to your network: Music, books, tickets, branded clothing, travel – anything that feeds your members’ passions. Subscribe to a third-party shopping cart and promote your merchandise on your Main Page or a dedicated tab.
Does your site have frequent visitors?
Do you have a high number of monthly page views, but few members sign in and participate? Still plenty of options for you based on that significant traffic:
- Sell sponsorships: This can be simple and highly lucrative if you can find a great fit with advertisers. Think locally, too: Are there local businesses that would be perfect sponsors for your network? You can spotlight them in a simple Text Box on your network.
- Partner with a premium ad network: A premium ad network like Mode Media Corporation may fit your audience and offer much higher advertising rates. You may need a minimum threshold of visitors or page views. Read MyModernMet’s Top 10 Tips for advertising for more ideas like this!
- Try out affiliate sales: Join a network such as Commission Junction and become an affiliate for products and services that fit with your community.
- Sign up for Google AdSense banners: If you’re just starting out and have a limited number of pageviews, this the easiest option to set up. However, the advertising rates may be lower than other options.
