# Sick Gaming Monetization & Community Support Plan

At Sick Gaming, our goal is to build a vibrant, inclusive gaming community. Any income generated helps us cover server costs, fund contests, support merch giveaways, and create more opportunities for gamers to connect and have fun.

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## How We Monetize

### Universal Methods
1. **Link Shortening:**  
   Use services like adf.ly or similar (e.g., $5 per 1,000 views). We may automate link shortening for any external link, helping offset costs while keeping our site accessible.

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### Website-Specific Methods
1. **Adsense & Ad Space:**  
   We plan to run adsense ads and offer dedicated ad space within posts, sticky threads, and key sections. Ad space can be rented weekly or monthly, and we’ll reach out to game developers, hack creators, and gaming content curators for collaboration.
   - [Website Advertisements](https://gitea.rcs1.top/SickGaming/advertisement-sales/src/branch/main/Website-Advertisements.md)

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### Social Media Monetization
1. **Sponsored Posts:**  
   Offer to post ads at scheduled times. For example, charge $0.50 per post/ad with a guarantee of 1,000 views, or $100 for 20 posts and 100,000 views. Analytics from platforms like Instagram and Facebook help us provide proof of reach. Automated posting via Python scripts is also possible.
   - [Social Media Advertisements](https://gitea.rcs1.top/SickGaming/advertisement-sales/src/branch/main/Social-Media-Advertisements.md)

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### YouTube Monetization
1. **Video Sponsorships:**  
   Sell advertising spots within videos—such as banners, end credits, or shoutouts.  
2. **Channel Promotion:**  
   Offer paid links to other channels at the end of our videos.  
3. **Product Reviews:**  
   Collaborate with brands for product reviews, which can lead to free merchandise and gear.

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### Community & Gaming Monetization
1. **Tournaments:**  
   Host tournaments for games like Rocket League, League of Legends, Rust, Gmod, and Minecraft. Entry fees help fund prizes—e.g., 60% to the winner, 30% to runner-up, and 10% to support the community.
2. **Game Servers:**  
   Run dedicated servers for popular games and offer VIP memberships or perks.
3. **Merch & Referrals:**  
   Design and sell custom Sick Gaming merchandise through platforms like Spreadshirt. Members get cool gear, and proceeds help fund community activities.
   - [Referrals Commission](https://gitea.rcs1.top/SickGaming/sg-website/src/branch/main/ideas/Referrals-Commission.md)
4. **Streaming Packages:**  
   Offer custom streaming setups, graphics, and cutscenes for other creators.

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## How We Use Community Funds

All revenue goes directly back into supporting Sick Gaming:
- **Server Costs:** Keeping our website and game servers online and fast.
- **Contests & Tournaments:** Funding prizes, giveaways, and event logistics.
- **Merch Giveaways:** Rewarding active members and contest winners.
- **Community Growth:** Supporting new features, collaborations, and outreach.
- **Gaming Events:** Hosting and sponsoring tournaments and in-game activities.

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*Our mission is to create a fun, supportive space for gamers. Every dollar helps us give back, grow, and keep the community thriving!*