Revenue Rockstars

GNI-Sponsored 'Revenue Rockstars' Encourages AAN Publishers to Share Their Wins

10 Webinars Run By and For Publishers in AAN

AAN Publishers are meeting in regular webinars to present to and learn from each other on revenue programs ranging from digital newsletters to in-person local events—and all the best practices in between. Thanks to generous sponsorship from the Google News Initiative, AAN is programming ten webinars from Fall 2022 through Spring 2023 to give AAN publishers revenue ideas to explore and expand on. The goal: building sustainability for independent publishers in cities around the U.S. and Canada.

“Many AAN publishers have bounced back from the pandemic, where their core business was affected by shutdowns,” said Todd Stauffer, association manager, noting that many AAN members rely on restaurants, festivals, non-profits and nightlife as key sponsors. “Most are thriving by diversifying their revenues, growing digital advertising options and expanding into newer territory such as reader revenue.”

Called “Revenue Rockstars,” the presenting publishers put on full presentations and take questions, often discussing the specific revenue goals and challenges they face. Other publishers and AAN member staffers can listen in, ask questions and benefit from each Rockstar’s experience.

AAN is recording the webinars and will make them available to AAN members in an online library along with materials provided by the presenters. Publications in interested in learning more about being a member of AAN can visit our Membership page for details. While AAN members traditionally have followed the “alt-weekly” format of hard news, entertainment and listings, other print or pure-digital publishers that offer important coverage in diverse verticals are welcome to apply for Affiliate or Full Membership.