Start your online business · Side hustles · 2 min read
The Best Affiliate Programs for Ecommerce: Top Picks and How to Choose
Short answer
Good ecommerce affiliate programs include Shopify's affiliate program, Amazon Associates, large networks such as Impact, CJ, Awin and ShareASale, and software partner programs from tools like Klaviyo or Canva. Pick based on audience fit first, then commission, cookie length and payout terms.
If you write about ecommerce, run a YouTube channel about online business or review products, an affiliate program can turn helpful content into income. The trick is choosing programs your audience would actually buy from. Commission terms change often, so treat any rate you see quoted, including on program pages, as something to check on the day you sign up.
How to compare affiliate programs
Before the list, the five things that matter:
- Audience fit. Would your readers buy this without being pushed?
- Commission model. One-time bounty, percentage of sale, or recurring.
- Cookie window. How long after a click a purchase still counts.
- Payout terms. Minimum threshold, payment method and how long commissions are held for refunds.
- Approval and rules. Some programs ban paid search on brand terms, coupon sites or certain countries.
Ten programs worth a look
1. Shopify Affiliate Program
For creators teaching people to start a store. Shopify pays a referral reward when someone you send starts a paid plan. Approval is required and the program prefers established content sites and educators.
2. Amazon Associates
The broadest catalog in the world. Commission rates vary by category and are modest, but conversion is strong because shoppers already trust Amazon. Read the operating policies closely; they are strict about how links and prices appear.
3. Impact
A network rather than a single program. Many software and retail brands run their programs through Impact, so one account gives access to many offers.
4. CJ (Commission Junction)
One of the oldest networks, with large retail and travel brands.
5. Awin and ShareASale
Awin acquired ShareASale and has been moving its programs onto the Awin platform. Strong for fashion, home goods and smaller independent brands.
6. Email platform partner programs
Several email platforms, including Klaviyo, run partner or referral programs aimed at agencies and creators who recommend them. These suit audiences of store owners. See our Klaviyo email marketing tips for the kind of content that pairs well.
7. Canva
Canva has run an affiliate program for Canva Pro through a partner network, with applications opening and closing over time. Details are in does Canva have an affiliate program.
8. Print-on-demand services
Printful and Printify both have referral programs, which fit content about starting a print-on-demand business.
9. Website builders
Wix and Squarespace both run affiliate or partner programs that fit "how to build a website" content.
10. Etsy and marketplace programs
Marketplaces sometimes run affiliate programs through networks. They suit gift guides and handmade product roundups.
Mistakes that cost affiliates money
- Promoting everything. Readers notice. A short list of tools you can explain properly converts better than a long one.
- Ignoring refunds. High-refund products claw commission back.
- Skipping disclosure. It is a legal requirement in the US and a trust issue everywhere.
- Relying on one program. Programs cut rates or close. Spread risk across two or three.
Is affiliate marketing worth it for a store owner?
If you already run a store, you can also be on the other side and launch your own affiliate or referral program. That is often a better use of time than becoming an affiliate. Our guide to ten ways to get traffic to your store covers referrals alongside other channels.
Frequently asked questions
Which affiliate program is easiest for beginners?
Amazon Associates is usually the easiest to get into because almost any product can be linked, but commissions are low and accounts need qualifying sales within the first 180 days to stay open.
Are software affiliate programs better than physical products?
They often pay more per sale and some pay recurring commission, but they suit audiences that run businesses. A product program that matches your readers will beat a high-paying program that does not.
Do I need to disclose affiliate links?
Yes. In the US the FTC requires a clear disclosure near the link, and most programs require it in their terms.
Sources and further reading
Platform features, prices and policies change. Check the official help pages linked above before you act on a detail that matters to your store.