How to Set Up Local Ads

1. Set up a budget to determine how much money you have available to contribute towards advertising. Disperse the funds available based on where you feel your ad will prove to be the most beneficial, based on what you are offering and your target market, or more specifically target audience.
2. Start a website. Starting a website can be a low-cost option that will go the farthest. You can use your website to set up ads, display information, special offers and contact information. Starting a website is also a good way to gather your own research. Do this by implementing a tracking feature, where you can ask visitors to indicate how they heard about your website. This will help you to determine which ad is generating the most exposure and make changes, if needed.

3. Contact merchant magazines in your area and investigate other community advertisements. Displaying an ad on a community calender or in a local business magazine is an inexpensive way to reach potential clients. In addition, speak with staff members at your local community center, shopping malls and grocery stores as they may have an area where you can post your ad for free.
4. Post an ad in the newspaper to reach a large audience for a low cost. Keep in mind these sources are more likely referred to by older populations. Therefore, if your target audience is for consumers under the age of 30, this may not prove to be as fruitful as you may like.