When it comes to the WordPress community, connection and collaboration mean everything. Ryan, founder of InfluenceWP, is channeling years of experience in IT and WordPress into building a dedicated platform to bring users, developers, and businesses together.
InfluenceWP isn’t just another directory or deal site; it’s a true passion project designed to provide value for everyone involved while fostering genuine relationships across the ecosystem.
Whether you’re a WordPress developer looking for exposure, a business sharing deals, or a user seeking new resources, InfluenceWP aims to make your experience seamless. So, what is it all about? Let’s dig in.
Who Is Ryan?
Ryan’s career began in IT, where he rose to the position of interim Chief Information Officer (CIO). During his IT journey, he realized he had a knack for solving problems and helping people make better tech decisions. But a common request shifted his focus: “Do you build websites?”
While Ryan initially said no, curiosity won out. Locked in his apartment one weekend, he taught himself WordPress and never looked back. Eventually, Ryan transitioned fully into building WordPress websites, combining his creativity with his IT expertise in security, best practices, and business operations. Today, Ryan runs a WordPress agency and has also built a niche agency specializing in directories. InfluenceWP, however, is his way of giving back to the WordPress community.
What Is InfluenceWP?
At its core, InfluenceWP is about uniting WordPress users and businesses. It offers tools and opportunities for partners (plugin companies, developers, and service providers) and consumers (anyone who needs WordPress-related resources). But it’s not just a business venture—it’s a deeply personal project for Ryan. “If InfluenceWP goes away tomorrow,” he says, “it won’t hurt me financially. But I’m running it like my life depends on it.”
The platform has three main goals:
- Streamline how WordPress users find trusted deals.
- Help businesses connect with their audience without extra fees or affiliate links.
- Foster authentic relationships within the WordPress ecosystem.
How It Works for Partners
InfluenceWP gives you a platform to connect with users without excessive overhead if you’re a WordPress business or developer. As a partner, you can:
- Create unlimited listings to promote your products, services, or deals.
- Gain exposure through newsletters and community-driven promotion.
- Provide exclusive deals to help solve a consistency problem.
Ryan’s approach is simple: “Imagine your best affiliate who doesn’t charge you a dime or ask for commissions. That’s what InfluenceWP is for you.”
The only requirement for free listing membership is that partners must provide a deal equal to or better than they offer anywhere else on the web. Don’t want to offer deals? No problem—partners can sign up for just $24 per year.
How It Works for Consumers
For consumers, InfluenceWP is a one-stop shop for exclusive deals and trusted WordPress-related resources. With a $0.50/month membership fee, you can:
- Access exclusive discounts provided by partners.
- Stay updated via newsletters featuring new deals and opportunities.
- Participate in giveaways and other community-driven activities.
This small fee isn’t about profit—it’s there to weed out spam accounts and ensure the platform remains high-quality and trustworthy.
A Unique Take on Black Friday
While most Black Friday deal sites come and go with the season, InfluenceWP keeps these listings evergreen. Once Black Friday promotions end, the entries can be switched off and reactivated next year—saving time and ensuring no deals are lost.
Plus, Ryan offers to manage promotions and input data for partners, making the process easier. For him, it’s all about building lasting, mutually beneficial relationships rather than driving one-time sales.
Collaboration and Future Potential
InfluenceWP’s strength lies in collaboration. Ryan welcomes creative partnerships. For example, if someone wants to start an InfluenceWP podcast, he’s willing to let someone take the reins and take 100% of any generated sponsorships the podcast garners. The goal is to grow InfluenceWP through community-driven initiatives like sponsored content, viral giveaways, and new features suggested by members.
Ryan’s open approach speaks volumes: “This isn’t just about me—it’s about all of us in the WordPress world. Together, we can make something bigger.”
Get Involved with InfluenceWP
Whether you’re a partner looking for exposure, a consumer on the hunt for great deals, or someone who wants to contribute to the WordPress community, InfluenceWP has a place for you.
Here’s how you can join:
- Visit influencewp.com to sign up.
- Choose between a partner membership or consumer membership.
- Start creating, sharing, or finding the resources you need.
The platform is building momentum, and Ryan is excited about the growing list of users and partners already on board. In his words, “I love every second of this work, and I can’t wait to see how it grows.”
Conclusion
InfluenceWP is more than a platform—it’s a labor of love for the WordPress community. With its focus on transparency, collaboration, and user value, it’s a welcome addition for anyone passionate about WordPress. If you’re ready to connect, save, and make an impact, start your journey with InfluenceWP today.