The Ultimate Guide to Monetizing Your Blog in Web3

Blogging isn't dead: it's just evolving, and in web3, creators finally have the tools to earn without relying on outdated ad models or middlemen.

In a realm where thoughts ferment into ideas and ideas take flight as content, a question arises: Is there still an essence of magic in the art of blogging?

In an era marked by the convergence of web2 and web3, the tapestry of content creation continues to weave itself, with new threads emerging to illuminate the path ahead.

As the dust settles on the scene, leaving behind the echoes of rumors concerning the demise of blogging, it becomes clear that this narrative is incomplete.

To speak of the death of the blog is to disregard the essence of its evolution.

Just as a seed bursts forth from its shell to bloom anew, so too does the blog, transforming in response to the changing landscape of the web.

The essence of the blog endures; it is the monetization models that undergo metamorphosis.

In an age where display ad payouts are abysmal - a fact lamented by many - and Google AdSense income has been steadily decreasing since 2015, it is no wonder that creators are seeking out alternative avenues, especially within the realm of web3.

If the internet is progressing from web2 to web3, then it stands to reason that monetization methods should also adapt and evolve.

Instead of relying on outdated models such as display ads and affiliate links, it’s time to explore smarter, decentralized revenue streams that put the creator back in control and offer a win-win scenario for both the audience and the content creator.

Here are six ways to monetize websites in web3:

1. Token-gated content and memberships

Web3 enables creators to offer exclusive content through smart contracts and NFTs. This means you can token-gate premium articles, reports, or even video content, granting access only to those who hold a specific token or NFT.

Token-gated communities or apps set preconditions that the users must meet in order to get access. The most common condition is proving ownership of a particular token or NFT. The users are asked to connect their crypto wallet to the app, which prompts them to complete a transaction without gas fees. If the transaction goes through, the user successfully proves their identity and access is granted.

This is kind of like having a Patreon account but way better, especially since creators get to keep all of their money. Plus, you can decide what tokens or NFTs grant access. For example, you could offer a special membership tier to anyone holding a BAYC NFT, or give early access to your new course to people who bought your previous NFT collection.

Token-gating can be done directly on your blog and it works even if you want to hide exclusive video content without paying a cut to third-party services.

Collab.Land has an API that allows creators to set up token gating on their content, or you can use AnWeb to create a no-code web3 app with token gating in a few clicks.

Why it’s powerful:

2. Turning a website/app into a crypto exchange

You can now run your own crypto exchange for free. A lot of people don’t know just how easy it is these days to manage and run one.

With a simple code, you can add a crypto exchange widget to your website that pays you commission each time a user completes a transaction. A lot of web3 entrepreneurs build entire websites just to run the widget.

ChangeNOW has a fully customizable crypto exchange widget that anyone can use to add functionality to their website. No extensive development, capital, or liquidity is required - in fact, the company’s developers even help users troubleshoot errors on their platform for free.

If you’re looking for a quicker solution, you can also add a simple but fully customizable “Exchange Button” to the platform using the referral program:

The integration immediately gives users access to both CEX and DEX liquidity. They can easily carry out crypto-to-crypto swaps and even process transactions in fiat (such as purchase or settlement operations). In addition, they also have an open source API that works seamlessly with Android and iOS apps (such as wallets) so that they’re not just limited to web platforms.

Why it’s powerful:

3. DAO and community-driven funding

Let’s say you have a dedicated audience who really loves your content. Instead of having to chase big sponsors or run donation campaigns every month, what if you could let your own readers help fund and shape the direction of your blog?

That’s exactly what a DAO (Decentralized Autonomous Organization) allows you to do. You can create a simple governance structure using smart contracts and launch your own token to allow readers to contribute, vote on topics, fund new series, or even co-own parts of the platform.

Instead of writing what you think people want, the most loyal followers tell you what they want – and they pay to make it happen.

Start small. You don’t need to be a developer to launch a DAO. Tools like Juicebox