How to Launch Your Affiliate Program in 24 Hours

Most companies spend 3-6 months launching an affiliate program. Here's how to do it in 24 hours without losing your mind.

The Framework

Launching fast doesn't mean launching half-baked. It means being ruthlessly pragmatic about what matters.

Hour 1-2: Define Your Program

• **Commission structure**: Pick one. Don't overthink it.
• **Partner types**: Who are you targeting? Agencies? Resellers? Content creators?
• **Core benefit**: Why would someone partner with you?

Hour 3-6: Build Minimum Infrastructure

• Payment tracking (spreadsheet is fine for v1)
• Partner onboarding form (Google Form works)
• Tracking mechanism (UTM parameters or redirect links)
• Communication channel (email list, Slack, Discord)

Hour 7-20: Launch & Recruit

• Send to 10-20 warm leads
• Get feedback
• Iterate based on early feedback
• Start recruiting your first cohort

Hour 21-24: Polish & Document

• Document your process
• Create partner guidelines
• Set up communication cadence

Why This Works

Moving fast forces you to focus on what actually matters. You'll learn more from 10 real partners than from 3 months of planning.

Key Lessons

• **Done is better than perfect**
• **Partners forgive imperfection if you're responsive**
• **Your first partners are your best advisors**
• **Iterate with real feedback, not assumptions**

Start today. You'll be live by tomorrow.