An affiliate program is a performance-based marketing strategy that allows individuals or businesses, known as affiliates, to promote a company's products or services in exchange for a commission. This model creates a mutually beneficial relationship where affiliates use their online platforms, such as websites, blogs, social media or email lists, to drive targeted traffic to the company's website or landing pages.

An affiliate program tracks the traffic generated by each affiliate through unique links or codes, ensuring accurate attribution of sales or leads. When a user clicks on an affiliate's link and completes a desired action, such as making a purchase or filling out a form, the affiliate earns a commission based on a predetermined percentage or fixed amount.

Affiliate programs are a cost-effective marketing strategy that can be implemented by both B2B and B2C brands. They provide a scalable way to expand reach, increase brand awareness, and drive sales without incurring upfront marketing costs. Affiliates, in turn, benefit from a reliable source of passive income by promoting products or services they believe in and aligning with their audience's interests. The success of an affiliate program hinges on establishing strong relationships with affiliates, providing them with the necessary resources and support, and offering competitive commission structures.