How to Sell Ads for Shared-Cost Direct Mailers (9x12 EDDM Postcards)

The Complete Guide for Local Marketing Entrepreneurs

Launching a shared-cost EDDM postcard agency is one of the most affordable and profitable local business models out there. But your success depends on one key skill: filling those ad spaces.

In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to find and close advertisers for your 9×12 postcard mailers — even if you’re starting from scratch. Whether you’re a student, someone tired of your job, or just looking to be your own boss, these proven steps will help you get local businesses onboard quickly and confidently.

First: Know What You’re Really Selling

You’re not selling “leads.”
You’re not selling a guarantee.
You’re selling visibility — and exclusivity — to 10,000+ homes in a local area.

This isn’t an ad buried in a phone app.
It’s not a social post that disappears in 24 hours.
It’s not a billboard drivers pass at 50mph and forget.

Instead, you’re offering a giant, full-color postcard that lands right in the hands of real people in their homes — and gets saved, pinned to fridges, or passed around.

It’s more targeted than a billboard, more affordable than digital ads, and far more tangible than anything online.

1. Find Businesses on Google Maps and Reach Out

This is one of the simplest ways to find qualified local businesses in any industry.

Steps:

1 Go to Google Maps and search by keyword and location:

2 Make a spreadsheet of potential leads:

3 Make a spreadsheet of potential leads:

📩 Reach Out via Email or WhatsApp:

Subject: Promote your business to 10,000 homes for under $600?

Hi [First Name],

I’m organizing a local community postcard that features trusted small businesses — mailed directly to 5,000 homes in [Your Area].

We allow only one business per category and thought you’d be a great fit. Want to see a sample?

Thanks,
[Your Name]

2. Find Businesses on Facebook Pages and Groups

Facebook is packed with active local business owners, especially in community or niche groups.

How to do it:

1 Join groups like:

2 Look for:

3 Start conversations via comments or DMs: “Hey! I run a shared local postcard that mails to thousands of homes. We feature one business per category, and I thought of you. Want more info?”

3. Attend Local Events and Meet People

Nothing beats a real conversation — and community events are full of business owners looking for exposure.

Where to look:

Bring with you:

Your pitch can be casual and simple: “Hey, I run a local postcard that goes to 10,000 homes and features trusted businesses like yours. It’s a super affordable way to get seen locally. Want to see a sample?”

4. Start With High-Ticket Service Businesses

Not every business is a good fit. You don’t want to chase low-ticket or low-margin shops that can’t commit.

Focus on:

Painters
Roofers
Dentists
Pressure washers
Real estate agents
Lawn care
Junk removal
HVAC or plumbing

These types of businesses:

Billboards are $1,000–$3,000/month and only seen by drivers in one direction.Your postcard is delivered to homes, saved, and shared — for under $600 per business.

🔒 How to Use Exclusivity to Close the Deal

Your mailer only features one business per industry. This is a major selling point — and your biggest leverage.

But sometimes, business owners hesitate or delay. Here’s how to follow up effectively:

Hi [Name],

just checking in to see if you’ve made a final decision.

I wanted to give you the courtesy heads-up since we only allow one [industry] on the card, and there’s been interest from others.

If I don’t hear back soon, we may need to move forward with another business in your category. Just let me know either way — thanks again!

This soft push:

📦 What to Send When They Ask for More Info

Once they’re interested, have these ready:

What to Send When They Ask for More Info

Quick Tips to Help You Close More Ads:

Final Thoughts

Selling ads for your shared-cost direct mailers isn’t hard — when you follow a clear, honest system. Focus on businesses that already advertise, keep your pitch simple, and lead with value and professionalism.

With consistent effort, your mailers will fill up faster, and you’ll build a local reputation that keeps clients coming back.

Ready to Launch Your Own Shared-Cost Postcard Business?

Get everything you need to start today:

Grab your EDDM Side Hustle Starter Kit now!

9x12 Agency

The team at 9x12 Agency helps aspiring entrepreneurs launch and grow their own shared-cost EDDM postcard businesses. With ready-to-use templates, agency websites, and practical training, we make it easy to start a real, local marketing business — even as a student or side hustler.