Facebook teams up with small businesses
“Dear American Small Business Owner,” Facebook writes, “You are the backbone of the largest economy in the world, and at Facebook, we’re excited about helping you grow.” Facebook has partnered with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the National Federation of Independent Business to give American businesses up to $10 million in free Facebook advertising through ad credits, beginning January 2012. Facebook says this will create jobs and help small businesses grow. While the credits offered are $50, it gives business owners a chance to experiment with Facebook advertising to see if it is worth further investment, a win for the business and for Facebook.
According to Reuters, “Facebook’s revenue doubled to $1.6 billion in 2011’s first half, a source with knowledge of its financials told Reuters, underscoring its appeal to advertisers while it grapples with intensifying competition from the likes of Google Inc. Net income in the first half of 2011 came to almost $500 million.” This move to offer 200,000 businesses with ad credits could easily boost revenues in the long run after businesses get a taste for their ad platform without initially having to pay for the trial period.
Additionally, the Chamber, NFIB and Facebook will be offering webinars and training on how businesses can get business through Facebook ads. The three will coordinate with their local chapters to host events where business owners will be trained in person on using Facebook ads to reach the public.
Visit Facebook for information on obtaining credits and information regarding live events, webinars, and training.
