In this article, we explore the various ways a Learning Management System (LMS) can be leveraged to create new revenue streams, supporting the sustainability and growth of sports organisations in both the short and long term.

With traditional funding sources becoming increasingly hard to come by for sports organisations, National Governing Bodies (NGBs) are often forced to seek out innovative and creative new revenue streams. Financial sustainability is vital for NGBs, who are required to cover the costs of ongoing growth and development of their sport.

Advertising

One of the most effective ways NGBs can monetise an LMS is through advertising. By incorporating ads within training modules, NGBs can create new revenues through banners, video ads, sponsored content, and more. These ads can be strategically placed in high-traffic areas of the system, such as at the beginning of modules, between lessons, or on dashboard pages.

Sponsors and partners can be featured in a way that integrates them into the learning experience without being intrusive. Ads can also be tailored to fit the context of the training content, making them more relevant and engaging for users. This targeted approach can enhance the user experience while ultimately generating significant revenue for the NGB.

Upselling and subscription models

Online learning platforms also provide an excellent opportunity for NGBs to upsell additional products and services, such as merchandise, event tickets, and memberships. 

A learner already engaged in an organisation’s training content is significantly more likely to purchase a full membership or other items, and presenting them alongside relevant training modules makes that purchase more convenient.

NGBs can also offer subscription-based plans, generating recurring revenues by providing members with continuous access to a comprehensive library of training content, resources, and exclusive benefits. This model ensures a steady and predictable income stream, allowing NGBs to plan and invest in long-term projects.

Subscriptions can also be tiered, offering different levels of access at varying price points. For instance, a basic subscription might include access to standard training modules, while a premium subscription could offer advanced courses, exclusive content, and additional perks.

Pay-as-you-go training

NGBs can also offer pay-as-you-go training, where flexibility and affordability make it an attractive option for prospective members. This approach allows users to purchase individual training modules or courses on an 'as-needed' basis, rather than committing to a full subscription.

Microtransactions and one-time purchases can generate significant passive income for NGBs. By pricing these modules competitively, NGBs can attract a wide range of users, from casual participants such as volunteer club officials who need to complete mandatory safeguarding training, to committed coaches or referees who are looking to advance their careers and education through specific certifications.

This model also enables NGBs to cater to a broader audience, including those who may not be ready to commit to a subscription but are interested in specific training content.

Pay-as-you-go training can also be linked to ongoing development programs, certifications, or CPD requirements, ensuring members have access to necessary training, ultimately contributing to the NGB’s revenues.

READ MORE: Why sports organisations should implement learning management systems

Support your financial sustainability with etrainu and Sport:80

Clearly, online learning platforms can offer a multifaceted approach to revenue generation for NGBs, and by leveraging advertising opportunities, upselling strategies, subscription models, and pay-as-you-go training, sports organisations can create sustainable and diverse income streams which contribute significantly to their ongoing success.

etrainu’s platform is an example of an online learning solution that has been specifically developed and tailored for the sports industry, and through an integration with the Sport:80 Platform, members of the organisations that work with both Sport:80 and etrainu will be able to access both systems seamlessly.

Through this partnership, NGBs can not only enhance the learning experience for members but also create vital new revenue streams to support their mission and drive the growth of their sport.

Find out more about etrainu’s services, or to learn more about what we do here at Sport:80, get in touch!