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As much as I hate to write this message to our community members, I'm afraid it's necessary. I've always believed in being open and honest about what's going on at Northwest Firearms.
The revenue that we rely on to run Northwest Firearms comes from three sources; ad networks, support from local businesses via advertising, and member donations. We've been lucky in that for the past few years these sources have provided adequate funds to keep us afloat. I'm sorry to say that we're hitting rough waters now, and we could really use your help.
I know there are rumors floating around that I'm getting rich off of this (even though I've publicly posted my W2), but that simply isn't true. This site is a labor of love for me, and if it were paying me a decent salary I certainly wouldn't be working a part-time job. Despite our shoestring budget and me forgoing my last couple of paychecks, our accounts are nearing the bottom.
For better or worse, almost all websites rely on ad networks for their primary source of income (as do we). Historically headquartered in LA, New York, or London, the ad industry is overwhelmingly anti-gun. Most networks ban firearm-related content outright, leaving us with only a small handful of niche networks to work with. Like any business, these guys have their ups and downs too, and right now things are way down in the firearm sector (meaning our payments have fallen off).
Our second source of revenue is advertising from businesses who contact us directly (Supporting Vendors). There's a major catch 22 in banner advertising stemming from the fact that in order to do well banners should be updated frequently. Companies with the resources to keep their banners updated are usually big enough that they run large campaigns with the ad networks, and most small companies don't have the resources to keep their banners updated (so their success varies). Most businesses also reduce their advertising when sales are good, and from what I understand the gun shops are packed. At this time we have only eight Supporting Vendors.
Finally there's you guys, our members, and anyone who's been here a while knows how much I hate asking you for donations. In fact, in the ten years we've been here I've only done it a couple of times, and only when we really needed it. Thankfully in times of need your generosity has gotten us through.
How you can help
Donations - If you appreciate what we do here and you've been thinking about making a donation, we'd really appreciate if you'd make one now. Not only will they help us out, Supporting Members also get a variety of upgrades such as reduced banner ads, reduced classified ad bump limits, and entries into our quarterly fundraising giveaways. Donations can be made via the donation page or by mail to Northwest Firearms, PO Box 28152, Portland, OR 97228.
Gift Donations - Really like another member? Through our gift donation system members can make donations in the name of other members, upgrading their status. Just click on their username, click gift, and make your selection.
Purchase an NWFA Lower Receiver - We made a sizable investment to get these lowers produced. While we're just breaking even at this point, each sale does put money back into our accounts. The purchase thread can be found here.
Purchase an NWFA T-Shirt - Every little bit helps. We get a few bucks from each of these.
Talk to Potential Advertisers - If I had the option I'd love to discontinue working with ad networks all together in favor of direct advertising with businesses themselves. If you're on good terms with a business owner and think they might be interested, mention it to them. If you're a business owner please consider advertising with us. If you have outside sales experience, maybe we should talk. The Contact Us form is at the bottom of the page.
Disable Ad Blockers - The rise in the use of ad-blockers is one of the reasons for our falling revenue. We try our best to not only keep the number of ads here to a minimum but also keep them clean and non-invasive. We won't do anything to discourage the use of ad-blockers, but we would appreciate it if those of you who use them would consider donating.
Closing
Regardless of whether you're in a position to help us or not, I want to thank each of you for your support and consideration both now and in the future. A community like this is only as good as it's members, and I honestly think we have the best around. Most people have no idea what it takes to run a site this large and complex, and we couldn't do it without you.
Thank You,
Joe Link
NorthwestFirearms.com
Joe, The hard times have hit everyone. This great website you have is no different. I'm sure people that know you personally or people that have been members forever, now what you're saying is true.
I don't mind donating a few dollars here and there. I'm tight budgeted on hardly any income (disability), but anything to help a brother out. I'll budget a donation to you on the 3rd of May for ya. Can't do it every month, but will try and help out.
Good luck young man
Donna@
WorkingK9Leashes