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NFTs have transformed industries beyond digital art, creating exciting new possibilities for membership models. Instead of the usual membership cards or subscriptions, NFTs give creators and businesses a way to offer exclusive access and perks more securely and transparently. With an NFT as your membership token, people can get access to events or content that’s all verified on the blockchain. It’s a cool way to build a loyal community and reward your supporters in ways we haven’t seen before. In 2021 the NFT market exploded, hitting $17.6 billion in sales. That’s a 200% increase from the year before.
The Bored Ape Yacht Club is one of the biggest, with NFTs serving as members to exclusive events, parties, and experiences. BAYC has earned over $1 billion in sales, with individual NFTs fetching millions.
A couple of great examples show the potential of NFT-based memberships. Another standout is World of Women, an NFT collection that focuses on empowering women in the art space. WoW’s community has generated over $30 million, proving that NFTs can create meaningful, thriving membership programs that also provide real-world value.
In this blog, we’ll dive into how you can develop an NFT-based membership program, exploring the process and real-world examples to help you create your own.
Overview of an NFTs-Based Membership Model
An NFT-based membership model works by using NFTs as digital keys. These keys give people access to exclusive perks and content. The memberships are built on blockchain technology. This makes sure ownership is secure and easy to verify. Plus they offer benefits that traditional memberships just can’t match.
Ownership Verification
The NFT is like your proof of membership and it’s stored on the blockchain. To use it all you need to do is connect your crypto wallet and the smart contract will automatically verify that you own the NFT. Once that’s done you’re all set to access the benefits.
Access and Benefits
With your NFT membership you can unlock all kinds of cool stuff. This could be things like exclusive content, special events, merchandise, or even real-world experiences like private clubs. For example Bored Ape Yacht Club members get invites to private events and access to exclusive swag. Or if you have a Flyfish Club NFT created by Gary Vee you get access to an exclusive dining experience.
Tradability
Unlike regular memberships, NFT-based memberships are tradable. If you don’t need the membership anymore you can sell your NFT on a secondary marketplace. Plus businesses can earn royalties every time the NFT is resold. It’s a win-win!
Frictionless Experience
There’s no need for complicated sign-ups or remembering passwords. All you have to do is connect your wallet. Once you do that, you’re good to go. It’s simple for users and it saves businesses from managing all the details.
Customization
NFT memberships can be tiered based on the rarity of the NFT. So some NFTs might give you access to higher-level perks. For example you might get extra VIP benefits if your NFT is rarer or more valuable. It gives businesses a lot of flexibility to create different levels of membership.
Use Cases
- Exclusive online communities like Discord groups where only NFT holders can join.
- Real-world experiences like private luxury events or special meet-ups.
- Voting rights in DAOs where members can have a say in important decisions.
- Premium content or merchandise from creators where only NFT owners get access.
This model is getting a lot of attention because it offers flexibility and exclusivity while opening up new revenue streams for businesses. It’s a fun way to build communities and give people access to unique experiences all thanks to NFTs.
Key Market Takeaways for NFTs-Based Membership Models
According to VerifiedMarketResearch, the NFT market is growing fast and was valued at $26.41 billion in 2023. It’s expected to hit a massive $222.79 billion by 2031. This growth is driven by industries jumping on board with NFTs, especially for membership models that use blockchain to offer exclusive perks and build strong communities. NFT-based memberships bring some cool benefits like scarcity, security, and liquidity.
Source: VerifiedMarketResearch
Unlike traditional memberships, NFTs can’t be forged or copied, which guarantees authenticity. Plus, they offer holders not just access to exclusive content and events but also financial value since the NFTs can appreciate over time.
More and more businesses are adopting NFT-based membership models because they boost user engagement and create a smoother experience for members. A great example is the Bored Ape Yacht Club. If you hold an NFT, you get access to exclusive merch, events, and content.
Nike has also jumped into the NFT space with its partnership with RTFKT Studios to launch CryptoKicks. These are NFT sneakers that give holders access to exclusive virtual experiences in Nike’s Metaverse store and special product drops. It’s a fun way for brands to connect with their community in the digital world.
A Perfect Time to Invest in Building an NFT-Based Membership Model
Now is a great time to dive into developing an NFT-based membership model because it’s a cool way for businesses to make money while offering customers something special. NFTs are getting super popular in lots of industries and by using them for memberships, businesses can create unique digital assets that have real value. These NFTs not only act as proof of membership but can actually increase in value over time. This means businesses and customers both win.
Plus, with NFTs, businesses can build a community around their brand and unlock new ways to make money that weren’t possible with traditional membership models.
A couple of awesome examples of NFT-based membership models are Bored Ape Yacht Club and Proof Collective. BAYC gives NFT holders access to exclusive events, merchandise, and content. This project has already made over $1 billion in sales showing that NFT memberships can bring in serious money.
Proof Collective is a more exclusive group and their NFTs give access to curated art and events. These have sold for over $10 million, proving that there’s huge demand for NFT memberships. These examples really show how businesses can tap into new revenue streams while giving their customers something unique.
Development Steps for an NFT-Based Membership Model
Creating an NFT-based membership model is a fun and creative way for businesses and companies to offer exclusive perks and build a strong community. Here’s how you can get started step by step.
1. Decide on Your Membership Benefits
Figure out what makes your membership special. Members could get access to premium content, VIP events, discounts, or unique experiences. The goal is to make them feel valued and excited to be part of your community.
2. Pick the Right Blockchain
Choosing the right blockchain is important. Ethereum, Polygon, and Solana are solid options. Each one has its pros and cons. You’ll want something that’s secure, reliable, and won’t drain your budget with high fees.
3. Design Your Unique NFTs
Create NFTs that look amazing and match your brand’s vibe. They could be digital art or cool badges. Make sure to add membership details to the metadata. It’s like giving your NFT its own personality.
4. Develop Smart Contracts
Smart contracts handle things like verifying ownership, automating rewards, and granting access to members-only spaces. Get a reliable developer on board to make sure everything runs smoothly.
5. Build a User-Friendly Platform
Design a clean and simple space where members can manage their NFTs. Make sure digital wallets like MetaMask and WalletConnect are supported so people can hop in without a hitch.
6. Set Up Access Controls
Set up access controls that check who owns your NFTs. Only verified members can enter exclusive areas, attend events, or claim special rewards. It’s all handled through blockchain verification.
7. Add Marketplace Features
Give members the freedom to trade or sell their NFTs. You could connect with popular marketplaces like OpenSea or create your own in-app marketplace.
8. Test Before You Launch
Before you go live, make sure everything works like a charm. Run thorough tests, get developers to squash any bugs, and even consider a blockchain audit for extra security. You’ll want everything to feel seamless for your members.
9. Launch and Spread the Word
Time to make some noise. Announce your NFT membership launch across social media, collaborate with influencers, and run special promotions. Limited-time offers or early-access perks can get people excited to join.
Cost of Developing an NFTs-Based Membership Model
| Category | Task | Cost Range (USD) |
| 1. Research and Planning | Market Research | $500 – $2,000 |
| Analyzing NFT membership models | ||
| Identifying target audience & preferences | ||
| Competitive analysis | ||
| Legal Consultation | $1,000 – $5,000 | |
| Ensuring regulatory compliance | ||
| Drafting terms of service & privacy policy | ||
| 2. NFT Development | Smart Contract Development | $2,000 – $10,000 |
| Developing secure NFT minting contracts | ||
| Smart contract audits | ||
| NFT Design & Metadata | $1,000 – $15,000 | |
| Creating NFT artwork & metadata | ||
| 3. Platform Development | Front-End Development | $3,000 – $15,000 |
| UI/UX design & website development | ||
| Wallet integration & NFT display | ||
| Back-End Development | $2,000 – $10,000 | |
| Server-side logic & database integration | ||
| Blockchain API integration | ||
| App Features | ||
| Token-gated content access | $1,000 – $5,000 | |
| Member-only forums or chat | $500 – $3,000 | |
| Event ticketing integration | $1,000 – $4,000 | |
| Member discount systems | $500 – $2,000 | |
| 4. Testing & Quality Assurance | Smart Contract Testing | $500 – $2,000 |
| Testing contracts for security flaws | ||
| Platform Testing | $1,000 – $3,000 | |
| Ensuring functional UI/UX | ||
| UI/UX | ||
| UI design | $1,000 – $5,000 | |
| UX testing | $500 – $2,000 | |
| 5. Deployment & Marketing | Blockchain Deployment | $500 – $2,000 |
| Deploying contracts to the blockchain | ||
| Gas fees | ||
| Marketing & Community Building | $1,000 – $10,000 | |
| Social media, influencer outreach, community |
Total Estimated Cost Range: $10,000 – $100,000
Factors Affecting the Development Cost of NFT-Based Membership Models
Creating an NFT-based membership model comes with costs beyond regular web or app development. While developer experience and feature complexity matter there are also blockchain and NFT factors that will affect your budget. Let’s break it down.
- Blockchain Selection and Gas Fees: The blockchain you choose can really impact costs. Ethereum is popular but has high gas fees for smart contract actions. These fees affect both development and the user experience especially when gas prices change unexpectedly.
- Smart Contract Complexity and Security Audits: Smart contract complexity also affects your budget. The more complex the contracts for minting and membership access the higher the cost to develop and audit them. Security audits are important to avoid vulnerabilities and get more expensive with complex contracts.
- NFT Metadata Storage and Immutability: Storing NFT data on decentralized platforms like IPFS adds complexity and cost. It’s crucial to ensure this data remains accessible and unchangeable in the long term, and your choice of storage solution will affect both development and maintenance costs.
Top NFT Membership Business Models
Here are the best NFT membership business models,
1. Exclusive Access to Content and Communities
A popular NFT membership model gives people exclusive access to content or communities. By owning a specific NFT, members get perks like early access to new releases VIP events or private social channels. This model works by offering something special and unique to members.
The Bored Ape Yacht Club is a great example of this model. NFT holders get access to exclusive events special parties and unique content. In 2021 BAYC made over $1 billion in sales, showing how valuable exclusivity can be.
2. Tiered Membership
In a tiered membership model, NFTs are sold at different price points, and each tier unlocks different benefits. This gives buyers more flexibility in how much they want to invest while still offering valuable rewards.
Proof Collective offers tiered NFTs where members can access exclusive NFT drops and curated market insights. Members who hold higher-tier NFTs get even more valuable perks.
3. Play-to-Earn Games
NFTs can also be part of play-to-earn games. Players can join games, earn rewards, and even trade them for real money. This gamified model is perfect for people who enjoy both gaming and collecting.
Take Axie Infinity for example. Players buy NFTs that are digital pets called Axies. They can battle and breed them to earn tokens. These tokens can then be traded for real money. In 2021 Axie Infinity made over $4 billion in sales.
Top 5 Examples of NFT-Based Membership Models
Here are five popular examples of NFT-based membership models,
1. Bored Ape Yacht Club
BAYC is probably the most famous NFT-based membership model. When you own one of their unique apes, you get access to exclusive events merch and online communities. These NFTs have sold for hundreds of thousands of dollars and the collection has crossed over $1 billion in sales. It’s a perfect example of how NFTs can create a strong community and turn digital ownership into valuable assets for members.
2. World of Women
WoW is all about empowering women in the crypto and digital art spaces. Owning a WoW NFT gives you access to special events, collaborations and charitable initiatives. In just the first few months WoW made over $10 million in sales. Each NFT in the collection is worth thousands and it shows how NFTs can build communities and also support important causes.
3. Nike x RTFKT CryptoKicks
Nike teamed up with RTFKT Studios to create CryptoKicks, which are digital sneakers tied to NFTs. These NFTs unlock access to exclusive products, virtual experiences, and one-of-a-kind designs. Some of these shoes have sold for over $100,000 which proves how NFTs can create exclusive high-value membership models in fashion and gaming.
4. DeadFellaz
DeadFellaz is an NFT collection centered around the theme of zombies. Owners of these NFTs get access to members-only events, giveaways, and a tight-knit community. The collection has seen impressive success, generating over $10 million in sales. DeadFellaz is a great example of how NFTs can create a fun and engaging membership experience with valuable rewards.
5. VeeFriends
Gary Vaynerchuk created VeeFriends which is a collection of NFTs that gives holders access to exclusive events like VeeCon a big conference bringing together business leaders. VeeFriends has made over $50 million in sales so far. Gary’s showing how NFTs can bring a community together and offer real-life value like events and experiences.
Conclusion
NFT-based membership models are a great way for businesses to engage with their community and open up new revenue streams while also building brand loyalty. With NFTs, companies can offer exclusive access, experiences, and digital assets that actually bring real value to members. This doesn’t just help generate revenue from NFT sales but also creates a strong ecosystem that encourages long-term customer value and a sense of ownership.
Looking to Develop an NFT-Based Membership Model?
At Idea Usher we focus on creating custom blockchain solutions. With over 500,000 hours of coding experience we’re ready to help bring your vision to life. Whether it’s smart contract development, NFT design, platform creation, or community building we’ll be there with you every step of the way to make sure everything runs smoothly and securely. We’re excited to create something amazing with you!
FAQs
Q1: How to develop an NFT-based membership model?
A1: To create an NFT-based membership model, you first need to design unique NFTs that represent membership access. Then you set up smart contracts on a blockchain like Ethereum to manage how people buy, sell, and transfer the NFTs. You’ll also need to build a platform where members can interact with their NFTs and enjoy the exclusive perks tied to their membership.
Q2: How does an NFT-based membership model work?
A2: In an NFT-based membership model people buy NFTs that serve as their membership cards. These NFTs give them access to special perks like exclusive content or events. The NFTs are stored in their wallets and smart contracts take care of things like renewals or transfers automatically. It’s a secure and transparent way for members to keep enjoying their perks.
Q3: What is the cost of developing an NFT-based membership model?
A3: The cost of developing an NFT-based membership model depends on things like how complex the NFTs are, which blockchain you use, and what features you want on the platform. You’ll need to factor in costs for things like smart contract development, NFT design, and security audits. For a simple setup, it could be a few thousand dollars, but a more advanced platform could cost more.
Q4: What are the features of an NFT-based membership model?
A4: An NFT-based membership model gives people exclusive access to things like content, events, or products through NFTs. These NFTs are stored in their wallets and act as a key to unlock perks. Smart contracts automate things like subscriptions or renewals. You can also have features like NFT transfers, reselling, or gifting memberships, which makes the experience more dynamic for members.
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