What Tools Do You Need to Run an Affiliate Program

by Matt McWilliams | Nov 17, 2016 | Affiliate Management, Videos

What tools do you need to run a great affiliate program? Well, the answer is: It depends. It depends on your current level, your budget, and to some extent personal preferences. Today, I share nine tools for every level and preference. Whether you are a beginner or advanced, have virtually no budget or an unlimited one, this video covers it all.

Last updated: October 3, 2026

Running an affiliate program is not as complicated (technologically speaking) as many people make it out to be. Depending on your level, you could get started with just four of the tools I mention in this video. And it would cost you less than $250.

Watch the video for an overview of each tool and use the links below to learn more.

Setting up an affiliate program is one of the single best investments you can make in your business.

NOTE FROM MATT (updated October 2026): In this 2016 video, I recommend iDev Affiliate and InfusionSoft (now Keap) for tracking. Today I recommend AffiliateHQ, which I own, so keep that in mind. It’s a flat monthly fee with no cut of your sales, and the Starter plan ($99 a month as of October 2026) covers tracking on any platform without a developer, every commission structure, contests, and segmented emails to your affiliates.