Back

Defector Media Partners with BuySellAds to Drive Digital Ad Sales, Bolstering Independent Journalism

Portrait of Matthew Kammerer
by Matthew Kammerer
Mar 5, 2025

Defector Media Partners with BuySellAds to Drive Digital Ad Sales, Bolstering Independent Journalism

New York, NY – 3/5/25Defector Media, the worker-owned, independent sports and culture website, has partnered with BuySellAds, a leading digital advertising platform, to manage and drive their digital ad sales. This collaboration aims to optimize ad monetization while maintaining Defector's commitment to delivering high-quality, independent journalism to its readers.

Since its inception, Defector has provided a unique, subscriber-first model of journalism, owned and operated by its writers. By partnering with BuySellAds, Defector seeks to better serve advertisers and enhance revenue from non-subscriber traffic, allowing the publication to remain financially sustainable and independent.

Expanding Ad Revenue from Non-Subscribers

As highlighted in their recently released Fourth Annual Report, Defector reported a strategic shift in serving ads to non-subscribers. This move aims to diversify revenue streams without compromising the reader experience for loyal subscribers.

With BuySellAds' extensive experience in managing ad sales for independent publishers, Defector can deliver targeted, high-impact ad placements to non-subscribers, ensuring maximum value for advertisers while supporting the publication's mission-driven journalism.

"We’re excited to work with BuySellAds, whose understanding of the independent media landscape makes them the ideal partner to help Defector grow our ad revenue in a way that aligns with the goals of our employee-owners," said Jasper Wang, Defector’s Vice President of Revenue & Operations. "This partnership allows us to maintain our independence while building new revenue opportunities that can help Defector grow sustainably."

A Platform for Independent Voices

BuySellAds brings a tailored approach to ad sales, connecting quality publishers like Defector with relevant advertisers. This partnership empowers Defector to continue offering thoughtful sports and culture commentary, free from the constraints of traditional ad-supported media models.

"Defector represents the kind of bold, independent journalism that deserves sustainable revenue solutions," said Matthew Kammerer, VP of Sales. "We are excited to help Defector achieve its financial goals while supporting their editorial mission."

About Defector Media

Defector Media is a worker-owned sports and culture website founded in 2020. Owned and operated by its writers and editors, Defector is committed to producing independent, subscriber-driven journalism.

For more information, visit defector.com.

About BuySellAds

BuySellAds is a digital advertising platform that connects publishers with quality advertisers through direct ad sales and automated solutions. BuySellAds supports independent publishers by helping them maximize ad revenue while maintaining editorial integrity.