One of the nice things about having zero financial support from readers is we don’t need to attend to “outside” needs. But is that any way to run a ‘zine or website, as the case may be? Of course, not. Answering readers’ needs is a huge part of what operating a micro media business is all about.
Just what are our readers’ needs? From my perspective, better content, always. (I’m happy to hear about any other needs you may have.) So, how do we get this better content? We pay for it! Of course, paying for content is an old-fashioned concept in today’s “build your brand, don’t worry about a business model” world. But I’m good with old-fashioned. Old-fashioned means it’s been around awhile, it means that it works.
I have to admit I have no idea if a a community fund drive to pay our writers is going to work, but I know it’s time to try. Naturally, a fund drive asks for voluntary contributions, which is an altogether different model than a pay wall.
We’re not attempting to rewrite the laws of the Web here, we’re just beginning to add small revenue streams that can meet one day in a business-sustaining river. Can you help us with this initial effort to raise capital to pay for premium content production? The money you generously provide will fuel more in-depth pieces about the industry and the people in it. Each of these premium offerings will be labeled as “Community Funded Journalism.”
Click here to learn more and to give what you can. Gifts of $25 or more will receive special recognition in these pages.