If you're a small business owner with little to no marketing experience, free ad credits can be a game-changer. They allow you to advertise your business and attract new customers without having to spend your own money upfront. In this section, we'll break down what free ad credits are, why they're ideal for small businesses, and the key rules you need to understand before getting started.
What Are Free Ad Credits?
Free ad credits are promotional offers provided by advertising platforms like Google, Facebook, and others, allowing businesses to run ads at no cost. Essentially, these platforms give you a budget to advertise your business, helping you get exposure without dipping into your own funds.
Download and print the 'Free Ad Credits Checklist'. This way you can mark each task off as you follow each step of this guide.
For example, you might receive a £75 ad credit on Google Ads, which means you can create and run ads worth £75 without paying anything. This is an excellent opportunity for businesses to test advertising, gain new customers, and learn what works best for them, all while avoiding financial risk.
How to Access Free Ad Credits
Sign Up for an Advertising Platform: Visit platforms like Google Ads, Facebook Ads, or Bing Ads and create a business account.
Look for Promotional Offers: When you create an account, many platforms offer new users free ad credits. These might appear in your email, account dashboard, or even through promotions from third-party partners (like website hosting services).
Activate Your Free Credits: Once you receive a promotional code, follow the platform’s simple steps to enter the code and activate your ad credits. This is often done in the billing section of your account.
Why Free Ad Credits Are Ideal for Small Businesses
Free ad credits are a fantastic opportunity for small businesses because they offer a risk-free way to get started with advertising. Here’s why they’re particularly useful:
No Initial Investment Required: You can start advertising without spending a penny of your own money. This is especially helpful for businesses with tight budgets.
Test Without Financial Risk: Free ad credits let you try different ads, audiences, and marketing strategies without worrying about wasting money. You can experiment with what works best for attracting new customers.
Big Impact for Minimal Effort: With a well-placed ad, you can reach hundreds or even thousands of potential customers. The key is to create simple, clear ads and target the right people, all of which can be done even if you have no prior experience.
Build Confidence in Advertising: Many small business owners are hesitant to try digital advertising because they feel it's too complex or expensive. Free ad credits give you a chance to learn the basics and see results without any financial risk.
Understanding the Rules of Free Ad Credits
Before you dive into using free ad credits, it's important to understand the rules that often come with them. Each advertising platform has its own terms and conditions regarding how these credits can be used. Here are the most common rules you’ll encounter:
Minimum Spend Requirements
Some platforms require that you spend a certain amount of your own money before they match it with free ad credits. For instance, a £75 ad credit might only become available after you’ve spent £75 of your own money on ads. This means that while the credits are free, you may need to invest upfront to unlock them.
Step-by-Step Example:
If Google Ads offers a £75 credit with a "spend £75, get £75" promotion, you would:
Spend £75 of your own money on ads.
Once you reach the £75 threshold, Google Ads will apply the additional £75 credit to your account, doubling your advertising budget to £150.
Expiry Dates
Free ad credits often come with an expiration date. You’ll need to use the credits within a set time frame (typically within 30 or 60 days after activating them), or they’ll expire. Make sure to plan your ad campaigns so you don’t lose out on these valuable free resources.
Limited to New Users
Many platforms offer free ad credits only to new users who haven’t previously advertised on their platform. If you’ve already run ads before, you may not be eligible for these promotions.
Restrictions on Ad Content
The credits must be used in line with the platform’s advertising policies. This includes ensuring that your ads are appropriate, follow the rules on content (e.g., no misleading claims), and target a legitimate audience. Failing to comply with these rules could result in your ad being disapproved, or worse, your account being suspended.
By understanding and following these simple rules, you can unlock the power of free ad credits to grow your small business without unnecessary stress or spending. With a bit of planning and creativity, you’ll be well on your way to attracting new customers at no extra cost!
Step 1: How to Find Free Ad Credits: Uncover Hidden Gems
Finding free ad credits is the first step in unlocking cost-effective advertising opportunities for your small business. Many platforms and services offer free credits as part of promotional campaigns, and with a little know-how, you can uncover these hidden gems. Below, you'll find simple, actionable steps to locate these opportunities.
Search Popular Platforms for Free Ad Credit Offers
Many well-known advertising platforms, such as Google, Facebook, and Bing, offer free ad credits to help new users get started. These platforms want businesses to use their advertising services, so they often provide free credits to encourage sign-ups.
Step-by-Step Guide to Finding Free Ad Credits
Google Ads
Go to the Google Ads homepage and create a business account.
Look out for offers, such as “Spend £25, get £75 in ad credits”. These are often shown on the signup page or sent via email after you create an account.
Once your account is set up, navigate to the Promotions section in the Billing tab to apply any free credit codes.
Facebook Ads
Visit Facebook Business Manager and create an advertising account for your business page.
Facebook frequently runs promotions, offering free ad credits to new users or small businesses. These offers may appear in your notifications or be sent directly to your email.
Apply the credit by going to the Billing section of your account and entering the code in the Ad Credit section.
Bing Ads
Sign up for Microsoft Advertising (Bing Ads). New advertisers often receive offers like “Spend £20, get £50 in ad credits”.
As with Google, once your account is created, check the Promotions section in Billing to claim and apply the credits.
By signing up on these platforms, you can instantly access free ad credits, making it easier to promote your business without spending your own money.
Take Advantage of Partner Promotions
Another effective way to access free ad credits is through partnerships between ad platforms and business service providers. Companies like website hosting providers, domain registrars, or email marketing services often offer free ad credits as part of their packages.
How to Access Free Ad Credits through Partner Promotions
Website Hosting Services
Many hosting companies, such as GoDaddy, Bluehost, or Squarespace, include free ad credits for platforms like Google Ads or Bing Ads when you purchase a hosting package or domain.
Once you’ve signed up for hosting, check your account dashboard or confirmation email for instructions on claiming your free ad credits.
Email Marketing Platforms
Email marketing services like Mailchimp and Constant Contact sometimes partner with ad platforms to offer free credits to their users. These credits are typically offered when you sign up for a new plan or upgrade your existing one.
Check the promotions section of your account or any email announcements for instructions on redeeming the credits.
E-commerce Platforms
Platforms like Shopify often have partnerships with advertising services. When you sign up for a Shopify plan, you may receive free Google Ads or Facebook Ads credits.
After signing up, navigate to your Shopify account or promotional emails to locate your free ad credit codes.
These partner promotions can offer valuable free credits, helping you reach more customers while minimising costs.
Keep an Eye on Seasonal and Special Offers
Advertising platforms regularly run special promotions around holidays, major shopping events (like Black Friday or Christmas), or during quiet periods when they want to attract more advertisers. These promotions are a great way to access free ad credits, even if you’ve previously used the platform.
How to Spot and Access Time-Limited Deals
Sign Up for Newsletters
Subscribe to the email newsletters of platforms like Google Ads and Facebook Ads. They often send exclusive offers and free ad credit promotions to their email lists.
Also, join marketing or business forums where members often share information about current ad credit deals.
Monitor Social Media and Blogs
Follow Google Ads, Facebook Ads, and other advertising platforms on social media. They frequently announce special promotions and discounts on their official pages, especially during major events like Black Friday.
Keep an eye on business blogs or marketing websites, as they often share news about limited-time free ad credit offers.
Check for Event-Specific Offers
Advertising platforms sometimes offer free ad credits during business events like product launches or webinars. For example, attending a Google Ads webinar might provide you with an exclusive credit offer.
Keep an eye on digital marketing events or sign up for webinars and training sessions from platforms like Google and Facebook, which may offer promotional credits for participants.
By staying alert to seasonal promotions and time-sensitive offers, you can continually access free ad credits, keeping your marketing efforts cost-free for as long as possible.
Step 2: How to Claim Free Ad Credits: Easy Steps to Unlock Savings
Now that you know where to find free ad credits, the next step is to claim them and start advertising. Below is a simple, step-by-step guide to creating accounts on popular advertising platforms, applying your free ad credit codes, and setting up your budget to ensure you only use the free credits.
Create an Account on Advertising Platforms
The first step to claiming your free ad credits is to create accounts on the platforms offering them, such as Google Ads, Facebook Ads, or Microsoft (Bing) Ads. Follow these easy instructions to get started.
How to Create an Account on Google Ads
Go to the Google Ads Website
Visit ads.google.com and click on the Get Started button.
Set Up Your Account
Enter your business details, including the name, website, and target location. If you don’t have a website, you can choose an alternative option, such as setting up an ad to call your business.
Choose Your Campaign Goal
Google will guide you through selecting your first campaign goal (e.g., driving website traffic or increasing calls). This will help tailor the ad campaign to your objectives.
Complete Your Account Setup
Follow the on-screen instructions to set up your Google Ads account. Once complete, you’ll be ready to apply any free ad credit offers.
How to Create an Account on Facebook Ads
Visit the Facebook Business Manager Website
Go to business.facebook.com and click Create Account.
Fill in Your Business Details
Provide your business name, your name, and the business email address.
Set Up Your Business Page
If you don’t already have a Facebook Business Page, you’ll be prompted to create one. This is necessary to run ads.
Create an Ad Account
Navigate to Settings, then Ad Accounts, and follow the instructions to create your ad account. This is where you’ll apply any free ad credit promotions.
How to Create an Account on Bing Ads
Go to the Microsoft Advertising Website
Visit ads.microsoft.com and click Sign Up Now.
Enter Your Business Information
Provide your business name, email, and website. If you don’t have a website, you can create ads for a business listing or landing page.
Set Up Your Billing Information
Once you’ve completed the initial setup, you’ll be directed to set up billing information. This step is necessary even if you plan to use only free ad credits.
Finish Your Account Setup
After following the setup prompts, your Bing Ads account will be ready to use.
Apply Your Free Ad Credit Code
Once your account is set up, the next step is to apply the free ad credit code. Here’s how to do it on each platform:
How to Apply Free Ad Credits on Google Ads
Go to the Billing Section
After logging in, click on the Tools & Settings icon in the upper right corner and select Billing & Payments.
Enter Your Promotion Code
Scroll down to Promotions and click Manage Promotions. Enter the free ad credit code provided by Google (often sent via email or displayed during sign-up).
Activate Your Free Credit
Once you’ve entered the code, the credit will be automatically applied to your account, and you can start running ads using the credit.
How to Apply Free Ad Credits on Facebook Ads
Go to the Payment Settings
In the Facebook Business Manager, click on Settings and then Billing.
Enter Your Credit Code
In the billing section, select Add Payment Method, and you’ll see an option to enter a promotional code.
Apply the Credit
Enter the code and click Apply. The ad credit will now be available in your account, reducing any ad spend.
How to Apply Free Ad Credits on Bing Ads
Navigate to the Billing Section
Log in to your Bing Ads account and click on the Billing tab.
Enter Your Promo Code
Scroll down to the Promotions section and enter the promo code you received from Bing Ads.
Submit and Activate
After entering the code, the free ad credits will be applied to your account, ready for you to use.
Set Your Ad Budget to Use Free Credits Only
To ensure that you don’t accidentally spend your own money, it’s essential to set up a budget that only uses the free ad credits. Here’s how to do it on different platforms:
How to Set Your Ad Budget on Google Ads
Go to Your Campaign Settings
After applying your free credit, click on the campaign you wish to run and navigate to Settings.
Set a Daily Budget
Under the Budget section, set a daily budget that aligns with the total value of your free credits. For example, if you have £75 in credits and plan to run the campaign for 15 days, set a daily budget of £5.
Monitor Your Budget
Keep an eye on your spending to ensure that it stays within the free credit limit.
How to Set Your Ad Budget on Facebook Ads
Go to Ad Campaign Settings
After setting up your campaign, click Edit on the Budget & Schedule section.
Set a Lifetime Budget
Choose Lifetime Budget to ensure the total amount spent does not exceed your free ad credit. For example, if you have £50 in free credits, set a lifetime budget of £50.
Schedule Your Ad Run
Adjust the schedule to make sure your ad runs for a reasonable period, using the credits efficiently.
How to Set Your Ad Budget on Bing Ads
Access Your Campaign Settings
After creating your campaign, click on the campaign’s name and go to Settings.
Set a Monthly Budget
In the budget section, choose a Monthly Budget that equals the value of your free ad credits.
Control Your Spend
Regularly check your account to ensure that you’re only using the free credits and not exceeding the budget.
By following these steps, you can easily claim and use free ad credits to advertise your small business without the risk of overspending. With careful planning, these credits can deliver a significant impact on your ability to attract new customers while keeping your costs at zero.
Step 3: How to Make the Most of Free Ad Credits: Maximise Your Reach
Now that you’ve claimed your free ad credits, it’s time to use them wisely to attract new customers. To get the biggest impact with minimal investment, it’s crucial to target the right audience, create simple yet effective ads, and experiment with different styles. Here’s how you can do it step-by-step, even with no prior experience.
Choose the Right Audience
To make sure your ads are seen by potential customers who are most likely to engage with your business, you need to choose the right audience. Most advertising platforms allow you to set targeting options that focus your ads on a specific group of people based on their interests, location, or behaviours.
Step-by-Step Guide to Audience Targeting
Define Your Ideal Customer
Think about the type of people you want to reach. Consider their:
Location: Where are your customers based? Are you targeting a specific city, region, or country?
Age and Gender: Does your product or service appeal more to a particular age group or gender?
Interests: What hobbies or activities do your potential customers enjoy? For example, if you run a fitness business, you might target people interested in health and wellness.
Set Your Targeting on Google Ads:
Once you’ve created a campaign, navigate to the Audience section.
Select demographic options such as age, gender, and location.
You can also choose to target people based on their search history or interests. For example, you can target users who have recently searched for products similar to yours.
Set Your Targeting on Facebook Ads:
In the Ad Set section of your campaign, scroll down to the Audience area.
Choose your target location, age, and gender.
Add Interests by typing in keywords related to your business. Facebook will suggest interests based on users’ online activity, helping you reach the right people.
By choosing the right audience, you increase the chances of your ad being seen by those who are most likely to convert into customers.
Craft Simple and Engaging Ads
Creating effective ads doesn’t require fancy design skills or complex writing. With the right approach, even a simple ad can grab attention and drive results. Here’s how you can create engaging ads that work:
Tips for Crafting Simple Ads
Write a Clear, Attention-Grabbing Headline
Keep your headline short and to the point. Make sure it clearly explains what your product or service is offering.
Example: Instead of “Get Fit Fast with Our Programme,” try “Join Our 30-Day Fitness Challenge – Free Consultation!”
Use a Strong Call to Action (CTA)
Your ad should tell people exactly what you want them to do. Use phrases like:
“Shop Now”
“Sign Up Today”
“Learn More”
Make sure your CTA is clear and direct. For example, “Sign Up for 10% Off” gives the customer an immediate reason to click.
Include Eye-Catching Images or Videos
If you have a product or service that can be showcased visually, include a simple, high-quality image or short video.
Free tools like Canva allow you to create professional-looking ads without any design experience. You can choose from pre-made templates to make your ad stand out.
How to Create Ads on Google Ads
In your campaign setup, navigate to the Ad Creation section.
Add your headline, description, and a link to your website.
Use Google’s Responsive Ads feature, which allows you to input multiple headlines and descriptions. Google will automatically choose the best combination to show to users.
How to Create Ads on Facebook Ads
In the Ad section of your campaign, you’ll be prompted to add your headline, text, and image or video.
Write a simple headline that explains your offer clearly.
Upload an engaging image or video to capture attention as users scroll through their feed.
By keeping your ads simple, clear, and visually appealing, you can capture the interest of potential customers and encourage them to take action.
Experiment Without Spending Money
One of the greatest advantages of using free ad credits is the ability to experiment with different ad styles and formats without any financial risk. Testing various elements of your ads helps you find what works best for your audience.
How to Experiment with Ads
A/B Testing
Create two versions of the same ad, changing just one element. This could be the headline, image, or call to action. Run both ads simultaneously to see which one performs better.
Example: Test two headlines such as “Get 20% Off Your First Order” versus “Exclusive Discount for New Customers.”
Test Different Audiences
Try targeting different customer groups to see which one responds best. You can create multiple campaigns targeting different locations, age groups, or interests.
Example: If you’re unsure whether your product appeals more to young adults or older consumers, create two campaigns targeting each age group separately.
Use Free Credits to Try New Ad Formats
Different platforms offer a variety of ad formats. On Facebook, for example, you can test image ads, carousel ads (multiple images), or video ads.
Google Ads allows you to experiment with Search Ads (text-based ads that appear in search results) and Display Ads (visual ads that appear on websites).
By trying different formats, you can see which type of ad resonates most with your audience.
How to Test Ads on Google Ads
Use the A/B Experiment feature under the Drafts and Experiments section. This allows you to run two variations of the same ad to compare results.
Monitor the performance of each ad and stick with the version that gets the best engagement.
How to Test Ads on Facebook Ads
Use the A/B Test feature in Ads Manager to set up two versions of an ad with different elements, like images or audience targeting.
Facebook will automatically show both ads to your selected audience and let you know which performs best.
By experimenting with different ad elements, targeting options, and formats, you’ll gain valuable insights into what works best for your business, all without spending a penny.
Step 4: Growing Your Customer Base with Free Ad Credits
Once you've claimed and used your free ad credits, the next step is turning those ads into actual customer growth. The key to making the most of your ad credits is directing potential customers to your website or social media, encouraging them to take meaningful actions, and building lasting relationships with new leads. Here's how to do it, step by step.
Using Ads to Drive Website Traffic
One of the most effective uses of free ad credits is to drive traffic to your website or social media pages, where customers can learn more about your business and engage with your products or services.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using Ads for Website Traffic
Create a Clear, Direct Call to Action (CTA)
Your ad should clearly tell people what to do next. Use phrases like:
“Visit Our Website to Learn More”
“Browse Our Latest Collection”
“Discover Our Services Online”
Ensure that your CTA links directly to a relevant page, like a landing page, product page, or blog post.
Use Link Ads on Facebook or Display Ads on Google
On Facebook, use Link Ads, which include a clickable image or video that directs users straight to your website or social media page.
On Google, create Display Ads that appear on websites and apps, encouraging users to click through to your site.
Target the Right Audience
Set your targeting to match your ideal customer, whether by location, interests, or behaviours. This ensures your ads reach people who are most likely to engage and visit your website.
Use Engaging Visuals
Ads with strong images or videos tend to get more clicks. If you’re advertising a specific product or service, include an image that highlights its benefits. Use free design tools like Canva to create polished visuals, even if you have no design experience.
By driving potential customers to your website, you’re not only introducing them to your business but also increasing the likelihood of conversions, whether that’s making a purchase, signing up for a newsletter, or learning more about your brand.
Turn Free Ads into Sales
The ultimate goal of any ad is to turn interest into action. Once you've driven traffic to your website or social media, the next step is converting those visitors into paying customers.
How to Turn Free Ads into Sales
Offer a Discount or Promotion
Incentivise visitors to take action by offering a time-limited discount or promotion. For example, “Get 10% off your first order” or “Free delivery for new customers”.
Highlight this offer in your ad's headline and CTA to encourage clicks.
Simplify the Purchasing Process
Ensure that when users click through to your website, the process of making a purchase is straightforward and easy to follow. For example:
Make your "Buy Now" button highly visible.
Ensure your checkout process is quick and seamless, especially for mobile users.
Use Retargeting Ads
Retargeting ads can be an excellent way to convert website visitors who didn’t purchase on their first visit. Platforms like Google Ads and Facebook allow you to target people who have previously visited your site, reminding them of the products or services they viewed.
Use your free ad credits to create retargeting campaigns, offering a small incentive to bring people back to complete their purchase.
Create Trust Through Testimonials and Reviews
Add customer testimonials or reviews to the landing page your ad directs people to. This helps build trust and increases the chances that visitors will make a purchase.
By using these simple techniques, you can maximise the value of your free ad credits and turn clicks into actual sales for your business.
Building Relationships with New Leads
Attracting new customers is only the first step; keeping them engaged and building relationships can lead to long-term growth. By using follow-up strategies, you can maintain contact with new leads and turn one-time visitors into loyal customers.
How to Build Relationships with New Leads
Encourage Newsletter Sign-Ups
Use your ads to promote a freebie or incentive in exchange for signing up to your newsletter. For example:
“Sign up for 15% off your first purchase” or “Join our email list for exclusive offers”.
This allows you to collect emails from interested customers, so you can follow up with marketing emails, product launches, or special deals.
Follow Up with Personalised Emails
Once a customer has signed up or made a purchase, send a personalised follow-up email thanking them and offering another small incentive, such as a discount on their next purchase.
Email platforms like Mailchimp or Constant Contact offer free plans that allow you to send automated emails, making follow-up easier.
Engage on Social Media
If your ads direct people to your social media pages, make sure you're actively engaging with them. Respond to comments, ask questions, and offer useful content related to your business.
Use social media to build a community around your brand, encouraging customers to come back and interact with you again.
Create Special Offers for Repeat Customers
Reward your new leads with special offers that encourage them to make a second purchase. For example:
“Thank you for your first order – here’s 10% off your next purchase.”
Keep them engaged by offering exclusive deals or early access to new products or services.
By nurturing relationships with the new leads generated by your free ad credits, you can build a loyal customer base that continues to engage with your business over time.
Conclusion: Continuous Growth Through Free Ad Credits
Using free ad credits is a fantastic way to jumpstart your small business’s advertising efforts without spending any money. By following the simple steps outlined in this guide, you’ve learned how to find, claim, and maximise the impact of these valuable offers. However, your journey doesn’t stop here. To keep growing your business and attracting new customers, it’s important to continue looking for more free credit opportunities and to plan for affordable advertising as your business expands.
Stay on the Lookout for More Free Credit Offers
Many advertising platforms regularly offer free ad credits as part of their promotional campaigns, so it’s worth staying alert to ongoing opportunities. By continuing to access these credits, you can maintain a consistent advertising presence without needing to dip into your budget.
How to Find More Free Ad Credit Offers
Sign Up for Platform Newsletters
Most advertising platforms like Google Ads, Facebook Ads, and Bing Ads offer newsletters that notify you of special promotions, including free ad credits. Make sure you’re subscribed to these updates to stay informed.
Join Business Communities
Online forums and small business groups often share tips about free ad credit offers. Join Facebook groups or LinkedIn communities where small business owners exchange advice, and keep an eye out for ad credit announcements.
Follow Platforms on Social Media
Follow the social media accounts of Google Ads, Facebook Business, and Bing Ads. They often promote free ad credit offers, especially during holidays or special events, directly on their pages.
Look for New User Offers on Partner Services
If you’re signing up for a new business service, such as website hosting or e-commerce platforms like Shopify or GoDaddy, keep an eye out for bundled free ad credit promotions. Many services include Google or Facebook ad credits for new users.
By staying proactive and regularly checking for new free ad credit offers, you can extend the life of your advertising efforts without needing to invest your own money.
Expand Your Advertising with Minimal Investment
Once you’ve successfully used free ad credits to grow your customer base, you might want to continue advertising to maintain momentum. The good news is that even small investments can have a big impact if you’ve already learned how to use your free credits effectively.
How to Continue Advertising Affordably
Set a Small Daily Budget
Start by setting a modest daily budget that aligns with your cash flow. Even spending as little as £5–£10 per day can continue driving traffic to your website or social media.
Focus on High-Performing Ads
Use the knowledge you’ve gained from using free ad credits to focus on the ads that performed best. Whether it’s a specific audience or type of content that worked, invest your budget into what’s proven to drive results.
Use Retargeting Ads
Retargeting ads are affordable and highly effective because they target people who have already visited your site or engaged with your ads. By reminding these users about your business, you’re more likely to convert them into paying customers. Platforms like Google Ads and Facebook Ads allow you to set up retargeting campaigns for a small investment.
Take Advantage of Low-Cost Ad Options
Many platforms offer flexible and affordable ad formats. For example, Facebook Ads and Instagram Ads allow you to create ads with a minimal budget. You can also try Google Smart Campaigns, which are designed for small businesses and automate much of the ad creation process while keeping costs low.
Monitor Your Spend
Keep an eye on how much you’re spending and the return you’re getting. If an ad is performing well and bringing in customers, consider increasing the budget slightly. If it’s not delivering results, adjust or pause the campaign.
By staying alert to new free ad credit opportunities and learning to invest smartly in affordable advertising, you can continue to grow your customer base and sustain your business’s success. With a focus on maximising impact for minimal cost, your small business can thrive and expand, using advertising as a key driver for growth.
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