Top 15 Affiliate Marketing Programs for Beginners in 2024

Embarking on the journey of affiliate marketing as a beginner in 2024 opens up a realm of opportunities. In this fast-paced digital landscape, it is essential to identify and engage with affiliate programs that not only align with your interests but also offer a solid foundation for learning and growth.

Let’s discover beginner affiliate marketing programs to join in 2024 with their main characteristics.

Is Affiliate Marketing Still Profitable?

Before tapping into the affiliate marketing industry, webmasters ask a logical question: is it still profitable in 2024? Sure!

Affiliate marketing remains a profitable and sustainable business model in 2024 for several reasons:

• Numerous Affiliate Marketing Platforms: A plethora of affiliate networks and programs exist across multiple verticals, enabling webmasters to find high-converting offers;
  
  
• Low Entry Barrier: There is no requirement to develop your own website to promote offers. Affiliate marketing allows to run traffic in different ways like push, pops, banners, native, and so on;
  
  
• Global Outreach: Through the internet’s global connectivity, affiliate marketers can tap into a worldwide audience, significantly expanding their potential earnings;
  
  
• Advanced Analytics and Tools: In 2024, sophisticated analytics tools and features are available to help affiliate marketers monitor performance, enhance campaigns, and optimize ROI.

To excel in affiliate marketing, concentrate on fostering trust with the audience, crafting valuable content. Success in affiliate marketing demands commitment, consistency, and a profound understanding of your audience’s desires and preferences.

Affiliate Networks vs. Affiliate Programs

The first step for all beginners is to choose a platform. Nowadays, webmasters have a possibility to join affiliate networks or affiliate programs. Let’s discuss their main differences.

What is an Affiliate Network?

We’ve touched on the collaboration between advertisers or offer owners and marketers who promote these offers. But how do they connect? They do so through specific platforms known as affiliate networks.

A CPA network is an intermediary between advertisers and affiliate marketers as well as a hub for collecting offers from diverse merchants. Here, affiliates can access offers description, their promotional requirements, and marketing materials.

These networks present appealing opportunities, such as competitive payouts and a wide array of affiliate offers. Dedicated affiliate managers within these platforms can aid in offer selection, GEO targeting, recommend optimal traffic sources, and provide valuable support for successful campaign launches.

We’ve got a whole list of Top 16 Highest Paying CPA Networks that you might like. Spoiler: not all of these platforms work with beginners. So read the description and terms and conditions carefully.

Affiliate Programs Meaning

An affiliate program is a platform created by only one advertiser with its direct offers. It means that the brand places only its offers without a possibility to add ones from other companies.

In this case, the affiliate program establishes a closer and more trusting relationship with the webmaster. The partner does not have to wait a long time if there is a problem — the response will be done faster and directly.

We have a list of the Best 10 CPA Affiliate Programs on our blog, too!

Affiliate Software vs Affiliate Networks: Which is Better for Beginners?

For beginners, affiliate networks could serve as a simpler starting point. These platforms may provide a broader array of choices and support, making them less daunting for newcomers.

For experienced affiliates, it’s better to choose direct affiliate programs for the potential of earning increased commissions. The autonomy and potentially greater rewards associated with direct merchant relationships can be appealing to seasoned affiliates.

That said, no one is discouraging you from starting your journey with the best affiliate programs for beginners. We will talk about them further on.

How to Find an Affiliate Program?

There are several methods to find an affiliate program if you are a beginner:

• Search Engine: It’s the most simple way. By entering “affiliate marketing programs” alongside your vertical into the search bar, you can identify suitable options. Additionally, you can explore individual vendors to uncover the affiliate programs they offer, for instance, prominent platforms like Amazon and eBay maintain their own affiliate initiatives;
  
  
• Affiliate Referral Links: Discover affiliate programs by examining referral links shared by experienced webmasters. They often share platforms that suggest offers with high commissions;
  
  
• Blogs and Forums: Such platforms as AllCPANetworks or AllPushNetworks are good examples of media that share real opinion on affiliate marketing programs. Here you will find reviews on platforms in different categories. What is more, in comments people can leave their real review on the platforms.

And in this article, we’re going to tell you about the beginner affiliate marketing programs looking through their characteristics.

Best Affiliate Marketing Programs for Beginners

Let’s have a look at the highest-paying affiliate programs that can help you to raise your affiliate income.

1. ClickBank

ClickBank is one of the best affiliate programs and eCommerce hub, suggesting access to a diverse array of over 4,000 distinctive offers. This platform extends the opportunity for digital content creators and affiliate marketers to earn commissions through the promotion of these products. With options spanning both digital and physical products across various niches, affiliates have the freedom to select market products without any restrictions on quantity.

Highlights:

• Commissions: up to 90%;
• Cookie duration: 60 days;
• Payment methods: Check, Direct Deposits, Wire Transfers, Payoneer;
• Payment threshold: $10.
  

2. ShareASale

ShareASale, established in 2000, is one of the oldest affiliate networks that achieved $200 million in sales in 2023. This platform facilitates the discovery, management, and establishment of pertinent brand partnerships. For affiliates, ShareASale offers tools to monitor campaign performance, track commission-generating transactions, access reporting and analytics features, and receive monthly earnings.

Highlights:

• Commissions: Depends on the merchant;
• Cookie duration: Depends on the merchant;
• Payment methods: Check, Direct Deposits, Wire Transfers;
• Payment threshold: $50.
  

3. Fiverr

Fiverr serves as a digital platform where freelancers can secure work from a wide range of individuals and companies. Partners have the option to bid on projects or advertise their own services. Through Fiverr’s affiliate initiative, you have the opportunity to earn commissions by referring customers to Fiverr’s services. Regardless of the service or vendor, you can receive a percentage for each new buyer referral without any restrictions.

Highlights:

• Commissions: from 25% to 100%;
• Cookie duration: 30 days;
• Payment methods: Credit/Debit Card, PayPal, Wire Transfer;
• Payment threshold: $100.
  

4. CJ Affiliate

Commission Junction (CJ Affiliate) is a worldwide affiliate marketing program that covers a wide array of verticals, boasting over 14 billion customer interactions annually. The platform features renowned brands like Barnes & Noble, Office Depot, Zappos, Verizon, and others. Using your online platform, you can endorse products and services from these esteemed brands and additional partners you appreciate. The advantages encompass a comprehensive set of tools, detailed reporting capabilities, and state-of-the-art tracking technology.

Highlights:

• Commissions: from 3% to as high as 50%;
• Cookie duration: 45 days;
• Payment methods: Check, Fedex Check, Direct Deposit, Payoneer;
• Payment threshold: $50.
  

5. FlexOffers

FlexOffers is a substantial affiliate marketing network that links publishers and advertisers together. Through its extensive range of affiliate programs spanning various sectors, FlexOffers provides entry to a network exceeding 10,000 affiliate program offers. The platform suggests advanced payment choices and competitive average commissions.

Highlights:

• Commissions: 5%-7%, sometimes over 10%;
• Cookie duration: 30 days;
• Payment methods: PayPal, Wire Transfer, Bank Transfer, Check;
• Payment threshold: $100.
  

6. ConvertKit

ConvertKit stands as a highly regarded email marketing platform. Through its affiliate program, you can endorse the ConvertKit, aiding businesses and content creators in expanding their reach and enhancing interaction. Suggesting a remarkable 30% recurring commission for 24 months per new customer referral, ConvertKit boasts one of the most generous commission structures in the industry. Affiliates gain access to numerous resources to assist in promoting the platform effectively.

Highlights:

• Commissions: 30%;
• Cookie duration: 90 days;
• Payment methods: PayPal;
• Payment threshold: $100.
  

7. eBay

eBay is a global online auction and eCommerce corporation facilitating direct buying and selling interactions for individuals and businesses worldwide, boasting a user base exceeding 132 million. By enrolling in the eBay Partner Network as an affiliate, you can earn commissions when a referral completes a purchase or wins an auction within 24 hours of clicking on your affiliate link.

Given the extensive variety of products available on eBay, you can promote diverse offers, ranging from brand-new electronics to vintage automobiles and pre-owned clothing.

Highlights:

• Commissions: from 2.5% to 4%;
• Cookie duration: 24 hours;
• Payment methods: PayPal, Wire Transfer;
• Payment threshold: $10.
  

8. Hubspot

HubSpot, a widely embraced CRM platform catering to marketing, sales, and customer service needs, features a notably rewarding affiliate initiative.

Upon joining the program, affiliates can receive a welcome bonus of up to $80 within their initial 30 days. Furthermore, webmasters stand to earn a 30% recurring commission for up to a year on eligible signups for various HubSpot affiliate plans, spanning from $45 per month to upwards of $10,000 per month. Access to a suite of resources and promotional materials is also provided to support affiliates in effectively marketing HubSpot.

Highlights:

• Commissions: from 30%;
• Cookie duration: 180 days;
• Payment methods: Direct Deposit, PayPal;
• Payment threshold: No.
  

9. Expedia

Expedia, a leading travel booking platform globally, garners over 60 million unique visitors monthly and manages a quarter of a million properties, solidifying its status as one of the most sought-after travel websites worldwide.

As a profitable affiliate program, Expedia empowers travelers to impart travel insights to their website audience and earn a portion of the revenue for each sale facilitated through an affiliate link.

While the program offers ample opportunities to leverage the Expedia brand, there are certain terms and conditions to consider. The commission rates can vary significantly, for example, hotel room bookings can yield up to a 6% commission, whereas flight or car rental bookings may offer lower payouts. Moreover, the program’s cookie has a duration of only 7 days, meaning that delayed bookings might not result in affiliate rewards.

Highlights:

• Commissions: 6%;
• Cookie duration: 30 days;
• Payment methods: Partnerize, Electronic Funds Transfer, PayPal;
• Payment threshold: $50.
  

10. Bluehost

Bluehost stands out as one of the largest web hosting companies globally, overseeing the hosting of more than 2 million domains.

The platform features a highly popular affiliate program as well. Bluehost has disbursed over $5 million in commissions to affiliates within the past year, solidifying its position as one of the most lucrative web hosting affiliate programs available.

Distinct from other affiliate marketing programs, becoming a Bluehost affiliate needs an application process for approval. Additionally, payouts are relatively slow, processed solely between the 16th and the end of each month. A minimum threshold of $100 is required to transfer funds from your affiliate account to your bank account.

Highlights:

• Commissions: $65 for each referral or purchase;
• Cookie duration: 30 days;
• Payment methods: PayPal, Wire Transfer;
• Payment threshold: $100.
  

11. MarketerHire

MarketerHire is a good affiliate program for beginners that links brands with skilled digital marketing professionals. The platform recruits freelancers with expertise in social media, SEO, email marketing, paid search, and analytics, catering well to audiences seeking flexible talent on a contractual basis.

MarketerHire provides a substantial upfront payment of $2,500 for each new customer, ranking it among the leading affiliate programs in terms of payout and commission. Moreover, there’s an added incentive for prospective buyers: individuals who subscribe as paying customers via your affiliate link will receive $500 in marketplace credits to use.

Highlights:

• Commissions: $2,500 per every new customer;
• Cookie duration: 90 days;
• Payment methods: PayPal, Stripe;
• Payment threshold: No.
  

12. Partnerstack

Partnerstack is a great affiliate program that aids Software as a Service (SaaS) companies in locating affiliates. Allegedly, it disburses $45 million in commissions annually.

By aligning with Partnerstack, webmasters with audiences comprising software engineers, marketers, or eCommerce enterprises can acquire affiliate links for numerous globally recognized tools. Brands such as Gorgias, Webflow, and Omnisend leverage Partnerstack to manage their referral programs.

Highlights:

• Commissions: 15%;
• Cookie duration: 90 days;
• Payment methods: Stripe, PayPal, Direct Deposit;
• Payment threshold: $5.
  

13. Skillshare

Skillshare is a web-based learning platform designed to assist individuals in acquiring new skills. With an extensive library encompassing over 28,000 courses across various niches — ranging from graphic design to productivity — Skillshare emerges as a top-tier affiliate platform suitable for diverse webmasters.

Skillshare features a lucrative affiliate initiative, providing a 40% commission to members within its network, with a referral Cap set at $67.

Highlights:

• Commissions: 40%;
• Cookie duration: 30 days;
• Payment methods: Direct Deposit, PayPal, Wire Transfer;
• Payment threshold: $10.
  

14. Ollie

For pet influencers seeking top affiliate programs within their niche, Ollie stands out as an excellent choice. This pet meal delivery service offers an affiliate program that rewards you with $60 for every new paying customer you refer.

What sets Ollie’s affiliate program apart is its commitment to donating a share of proceeds to support dogs in need. This aspect not only benefits you as an affiliate but also allows both you and your audience to support a socially responsible brand.

Highlights:

• Commissions: $60 per all referrals;
• Cookie duration: 30 days;
• Payment methods: PayPal, Check, Wire Transfer, Direct Deposit;
• Payment threshold: $60.

15. Kinsta

Kinsta is a provider of website hosting services specializing in cloud hosting for WordPress sites, applications, and databases. It also has an affiliate program renowned for disbursing over $1 million annually in commissions. This program caters particularly well to individuals with audiences comprising software engineers, marketers, publishers, or bloggers, irrespective of their own Kinsta customer status.

The affiliate program suggests three primary commission structures based on the product sold: upfront commissions ranging from $50 to $500 plus a 10% recurring commission for managed WordPress hosting, and 5% monthly commissions for both application and database hosting.

Highlights:

• Commissions: Depends on referral type;
• Cookie duration: 60 days;
• Payment methods: PayPal;
• Payment threshold: $100.

Strategies for Achieving Success with High-Paying Affiliate Programs for Beginners

If you are a beginner, enrolling in an affiliate program without understanding how to effectively market the offers is vainly. 

Selecting the right offers is crucial for maximizing profits. Consider these factors when evaluating products and services from affiliate programs to determine the best fit for you:

• Initial Subscription Cost: Even with moderate commission rates, you can earn substantially if the average order value is high;
  
  
• Recurring Payments: Opt for services with recurring payment structures to earn commissions for each month of the user’s subscription;
  
  
• Commission Rates: Compare higher one-time rates with lower recurring rates to determine the more advantageous option;
  
  
• Established Brand Reputation: Endorse products from reputable brands to build trust with your audience;
  
  
• Active Affiliate Community: Engaging with other affiliate marketers in forums or social media groups can provide valuable insights and mentorship for newcomers.

Furthermore, avoid misleading your audience into purchasing unnecessary items. While it might yield short-term gains, it risks damaging your credibility and betraying the trust.

Veranika Minina

Veranika Minina is a fan of affiliate marketing. Veranika's articles are carefully crafted to simplify complex concepts, making them accessible to beginners while also offering fresh perspectives about CPA-networks for experienced marketers. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned marketer, Veranika's writings are sure to inspire, educate, and motivate, guiding you towards a profitable affiliate marketing journey.