Start an AI Newsletter and Monetize It with Affiliate Links

"Learn how to start an AI newsletter, grow subscribers, and monetize with affiliate links. A complete guide to building income in the AI era."  

 The world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is booming. From AI-powered tools that write content in seconds to advanced platforms that generate voiceovers, design graphics, and automate businesses—AI is everywhere. If you’ve been looking for a way to get involved in this exciting industry while building a profitable side hustle (or even a full-time business), one of the smartest strategies you can pursue is to start an AI newsletter.

Not only is this a low-cost and beginner-friendly way to enter the digital space, but it also offers multiple opportunities to generate revenue. One of the most effective monetization methods is affiliate marketing, where you promote AI tools and earn commissions on sales. In this article, we’ll walk through everything you need to know to start, grow, and monetize an AI newsletter.

Why Start an AI Newsletter?

Starting a newsletter might sound “old school,” but the truth is that email newsletters are one of the most reliable and profitable marketing channels today. Unlike social media platforms, where algorithms can change overnight, your email list is something you own.

Here’s why an AI newsletter is an especially smart choice:

1. Growing Demand for AI Knowledge
   People are hungry for AI-related information. Entrepreneurs, freelancers, students, and everyday professionals want to know how to use AI tools to make their lives easier. By starting an AI newsletter, you position yourself as a trusted source of curated information.

2. Ever-Expanding AI Market
   New AI tools and platforms are being launched every single week. This constant innovation creates endless content opportunities for your newsletter—whether it’s tool reviews, tutorials, or industry updates.

3. Low Startup Cost
   You don’t need a fancy website or expensive software to begin. With just an email marketing tool and a little consistency, you can start delivering value to your subscribers immediately.

4. Monetization Potential
   From affiliate links to sponsorships and premium subscriptions, newsletters can become a steady income stream.

Step 1: Define Your Niche and Audience

Before you hit “send” on your first issue, you need to figure out who you’re writing for. The AI industry is broad, so narrowing your focus will help you attract loyal subscribers.

Here are a few niche ideas for your AI newsletter:

• AI for Entrepreneurs and Startups – Share how founders can use AI for business growth.

• AI for Content Creators – Teach bloggers, YouTubers, and marketers how to use AI tools to create content faster.

• AI in Education – Focus on how students and teachers can benefit from AI.

• AI Tool Roundups – Simply share the latest and greatest AI tools in each edition.

Think about your ideal reader. Are they beginners who need step-by-step guides? Or are they tech-savvy professionals looking for deep insights? Once you know your target audience, your content will practically write itself.

Step 2: Choose the Right Newsletter Platform

Your newsletter needs a home. Luckily, there are plenty of beginner-friendly platforms that make it easy to set up and grow.

Popular options include:

• Beehiiv – Excellent for creators who want growth and monetization features.

• Substack – Simple to use, with built-in discoverability and monetization.

• ConvertKit – A great choice for creators focused on email marketing automation.

• MailerLite – Affordable, beginner-friendly, and highly customizable.

When choosing, look for features like:

• Easy signup form integration

• Subscriber management tools

• Affiliate link compatibility

• Automation (like welcome sequences)

Step 3: Create Valuable and Engaging Content

The heart of your newsletter is the content. People subscribe because they expect to learn something new, save time, or get inspired.

Here are some content ideas for your AI newsletter:

1. Tool Reviews – Share in-depth reviews of the latest AI platforms.

2. How-To Guides – Show your readers step-by-step ways to use AI in their personal or professional life.

3. Case Studies – Highlight success stories of businesses or individuals using AI.

4. Industry News – Keep your subscribers up-to-date with the latest AI developments.

5. Curated Lists – Round up the best AI tools for specific tasks, like video editing or customer support.

The goal is to consistently deliver value. If readers trust your recommendations, they’ll be more likely to click on your affiliate links.

Step 4: Grow Your Subscriber List

Without subscribers, your newsletter won’t generate income. Growing your email list should be one of your top priorities.

Here are proven strategies:

• Offer a Freebie (Lead Magnet) – For example, “Free Guide: 10 AI Tools That Will Save You Hours Every Week.”

• Use Social Media – Share snippets of your newsletter on LinkedIn, Twitter (X), or TikTok to attract followers.

• Leverage AI Communities – Engage in online forums, Facebook groups, or Reddit communities related to AI.

• Collaborate with Others – Partner with other creators in the AI space to promote your newsletter.

• Add a Signup Form to Your Blog or Website – If you already have a site, capture visitors’ emails with a simple form.

Remember: quality matters more than quantity. It’s better to have 1,000 engaged subscribers who open your emails than 10,000 who ignore them.

Step 5: Monetize with Affiliate Links

Now, let’s talk money. One of the fastest and most effective ways to monetize your AI newsletter is by using affiliate links.

What is Affiliate Marketing?

Affiliate marketing is when you recommend a product or tool to your audience, and if they purchase through your link, you earn a commission.

How to Use Affiliate Links in Your Newsletter

1. Tool Reviews with Links – Write honest reviews and include your affiliate link.

2. Tutorials with Recommended Tools – If you’re showing how to create content with AI, link to the tool you’re demonstrating.

3. Resource Roundups – Share “Top 5 AI Tools This Month” and include affiliate links.

4. Exclusive Discounts – Negotiate discounts for your subscribers through your affiliate partnerships.

Where to Find AI Affiliate Programs

• AI writing tools (like Jasper, Copy.ai, Writesonic)

• AI design tools (like Canva Pro, Designs.ai)

• AI voice and video tools (like Synthesia, Pictory, Descript)

• AI productivity tools (like Notion AI, ClickUp AI)

Most of these platforms offer generous affiliate programs, often paying 20–50% per sale.

Step 6: Stay Consistent and Build Trust

The key to a successful AI newsletter isn’t just starting—it’s sticking with it. Consistency builds trust. If you show up every week with valuable content, your subscribers will start looking forward to your emails.

Here are some best practices:

• Set a Schedule – Whether it’s weekly or bi-weekly, be consistent.

• Be Honest – Only recommend tools you genuinely believe in.

• Engage with Readers – Ask for feedback and reply to emails.

• Keep Emails Clean and Readable – Use headings, bullet points, and short paragraphs.

The stronger the relationship you build with your audience, the more likely they’ll trust your recommendations—and click on your affiliate links.

Step 7: Explore Additional Monetization Options

While affiliate marketing is a fantastic starting point, you don’t have to stop there. As your newsletter grows, you can explore additional income streams:

• Sponsorships – Brands may pay you to feature their products.

• Premium Subscriptions – Offer exclusive content for paid subscribers.

• Digital Products – Sell your own guides, templates, or courses about AI.

• Consulting Services – Use your authority to help businesses implement AI tools.

The bigger your audience, the more opportunities you’ll unlock.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

As you start your AI newsletter journey, here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

1. Overloading Emails with Links – Too many affiliate links can look spammy. Focus on quality recommendations.

2. Inconsistent Publishing – Going silent for weeks at a time will lose subscriber trust.

3. Focusing Only on Money – Readers can tell if you’re only pushing sales. Always prioritize value first.

4. Neglecting Mobile Readers – Many subscribers read emails on their phones. Make sure your format is mobile-friendly.

5. Not Tracking Results – Use analytics to measure open rates, click rates, and conversions.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been looking for a low-cost, high-potential way to build an online income stream, starting an AI newsletter is one of the smartest moves you can make. Not only do you get to share exciting and valuable content in one of the fastest-growing industries, but you also unlock multiple monetization opportunities—starting with affiliate links.

With consistency, honesty, and a reader-first approach, your AI newsletter can grow from a side hustle into a reliable online business.

So, don’t just watch the AI revolution happen—become part of it. Start your AI newsletter today.