For your podcast to succeed you’ll need to explore a variety of different business models. Advertising is still king, particularly when your host promotes a product or service to an engaged audience. Grants are an option, but sustainability can be an issue. Subscription models are still a attractive when you offer extra content or ad-free episodes to those paying a fee. Once your podcasting brand is more established, you can consider selling branded merchandise to generate income.
Business Model
Paying the bills & yourself
Tips & Tricks
Many podcasts with a community focus are established as non-profit entities, which means they can receive grant funding. But you can also start your podcast as part of a for-profit company and have no obligations to donors.When your podcast gets sponsorships or advertisers it’s important to find out if you’ll still have the freedom to express yourself the way you want or if funders will have requirements or restrictions on what you can say or what topics you cover.Burning Question
Will I make money from my podcast? It’s difficult. Only a few very popular podcasts get the kind of download numbers and the advertising revenue to create a big payday. You need to look beyond traditional advertising to monetize your podcast. This could include producing branded podcasts for clients.Common Mistake
Not reading the fine print. When your podcast gets sponsorships or advertisers it’s important to find out if you’ll still have the freedom to express yourself the way you want or if funders will have requirements or restrictions on what you can say or what topics you cover.Links
- Article: What are the Best Business Models for Podcasts?
- Article: The Business of Podcasting: Revenue Models and Strategies
- Article: How to Write a Podcast Business Plan
TIPS from OUR Network
- Don’t put all your eggs in one basket!
- If advertising, make sure the ads line up with your ethical values and are appropriate for your audience.
- [your tip could be shown here]