7 Top Brands with Affiliate Programs to Join in 2025
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Affiliate marketing presents a powerful opportunity for creators, publishers, and e-commerce brands to generate substantial revenue. The core challenge, however, isn't just participating; it's finding the right partners that align with your audience and monetization goals. Navigating the vast number of programs can be overwhelming, leading to wasted effort on partnerships that don't convert. This guide solves that problem by providing a direct, curated list of the best brands with affiliate programs, available through major networks and platforms.
We cut straight to the essential details you need to make informed decisions. For each platform covered, such as Amazon Associates, impact.com, and CJ, you will find a clear breakdown of commission structures, cookie durations, and standout program features. This resource is designed to be your go-to reference for identifying lucrative partnerships. Whether you're a TikTok Shop seller looking to scale through creator collaborations or an established publisher aiming to optimize earnings, this list will help you pinpoint the most suitable programs to join. Each entry includes direct links to get you started immediately, helping you build profitable, long-term affiliate relationships.
1. Amazon Associates
Amazon Associates is often the first stop for aspiring affiliate marketers, and for good reason. As the official affiliate program for the world's largest online retailer, it provides access to millions of products across nearly every conceivable niche. This makes it one of the most versatile and accessible brands with affiliate programs available, ideal for creators, bloggers, and publishers regardless of their content focus.
The program's primary strength lies in the immense trust and brand recognition of Amazon itself. Consumers are already comfortable purchasing from the site, which often leads to higher conversion rates for affiliate referrals. Getting started is free and relatively straightforward, with an onboarding process that grants you immediate access to link-building tools and a comprehensive reporting dashboard within the Associates Central portal.
Key Program Details & Features
Navigating the Amazon Associates program effectively requires understanding its structure. The platform offers deep-linking tools, allowing you to link directly to any product page, search result, or category. This flexibility is crucial for creating highly relevant, contextual affiliate links that serve your audience's specific needs.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Commission Type | Varies by product category, typically ranging from 1% to 20%. Fixed-rate bounties are also available for specific Amazon services. |
| Cookie Duration | 24 hours. However, if a customer adds an item to their cart, the cookie extends to 90 days for that specific item. |
| Application Process | Free to join. Requires an active website, blog, or social media channel. You must generate 3 qualifying sales within the first 180 days. |
| Payment Threshold | $10 for direct deposit and Amazon gift cards; $100 for checks. |
| Unique Feature | You earn a commission on any qualifying item a customer purchases after clicking your link, not just the product you promoted. |
A significant challenge is the program's strict compliance policies; violations can lead to account suspension. Additionally, commission rates can change, so it's vital to stay updated on the program's policies. For those managing multiple creator partnerships, especially across platforms like TikTok and Amazon, it's beneficial to explore advanced strategies. To dive deeper into optimizing your efforts, you can learn more about Amazon Associates automation tools.
Pros:
- Unmatched consumer trust and brand recognition
- Vast product selection for any niche
- Simple setup and user-friendly link-building tools
- Robust reporting and analytics dashboard
Cons:
- Short 24-hour cookie duration
- Commission rates can fluctuate and are low in some categories
- Strict operating agreement and compliance rules
Website: https://affiliate-program.amazon.com
2. CJ (formerly Commission Junction)
CJ, formerly known as Commission Junction, is one of the oldest and largest affiliate marketing networks in the world. It acts as a massive marketplace connecting publishers with thousands of major advertisers, making it a go-to platform for creators looking to partner with established brands with affiliate programs. The network is particularly strong in North America and boasts an impressive roster of enterprise-level companies across sectors like retail, travel, and finance.
The platform's reputation is built on its robust technology, reliable tracking, and a comprehensive suite of tools designed for serious affiliate marketers. For publishers, CJ provides a centralized dashboard to find, apply to, and manage multiple affiliate programs without needing to create separate accounts for each brand. This streamlined approach saves significant time and allows creators to focus on building high-converting content.
Key Program Details & Features
Success on CJ often depends on your ability to get accepted into individual brand programs and leverage the platform's advanced features. The Deep Link Generator is particularly useful, allowing you to create affiliate links to any specific page on a merchant's site. This is essential for promoting individual products or targeted landing pages within your content.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Commission Type | Varies by advertiser; includes pay-per-sale (PPS), pay-per-lead (PPL), pay-per-call, and pay-per-click (PPC). |
| Cookie Duration | Set by each individual advertiser. Durations can range from 1 day to 120+ days, depending on the program. |
| Application Process | Free to join. Requires a website with a privacy policy. Each brand program requires a separate application and approval. |
| Payment Threshold | $50 for direct deposit; $100 for checks. Payments are issued on a reliable net-30 schedule twice a month. |
| Unique Feature | Provides advanced "Situational Commissioning" and "Cookieless Tracking" to ensure fair attribution in a privacy-focused landscape. |
While the interface can have a steeper learning curve compared to more modern networks, its power and data insights are unparalleled. New publishers may find it challenging to get approved by top-tier brands initially, so it's wise to build a solid content portfolio before applying. CJ’s advanced reporting provides deep insights into performance, helping you optimize campaigns for better results.
Pros:
- Access to thousands of premier and enterprise-level brands
- Robust tracking, deep-linking tools, and advanced analytics
- Reliable and timely payments with multiple currency options
- Free for publishers to join and manage multiple programs
Cons:
- The platform can be complex for beginners to navigate
- Approval is on a per-program basis and can be difficult for new sites
- Requires a more hands-on approach to manage individual partnerships
Website: https://www.cj.com
3. impact.com
Impact.com stands out not as a single brand, but as a robust partnership management platform and affiliate network. It hosts thousands of top-tier brands with affiliate programs under one roof, making it a go-to resource for affiliates, creators, and publishers looking to diversify their income streams. The platform is renowned for its technology-first approach, offering sophisticated tracking and reporting tools that provide deep, actionable insights.
The core strength of impact.com is its direct partnership model. Unlike traditional networks that act as middlemen, impact.com facilitates direct relationships between brands and partners. This transparency builds trust and allows for better negotiation of terms. The platform’s interface is clean and comprehensive, providing access to a massive marketplace where you can discover and apply to programs from brands like Adidas, Uber, and Lenovo.
Key Program Details & Features
Navigating impact.com involves using its powerful search and discovery tools to find brands that align with your audience. Once approved, you gain access to a suite of creative assets, tracking links, and sometimes, exclusive promotional codes. The platform's reporting is a major advantage, offering detailed performance data to help you optimize your campaigns.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Commission Type | Varies by brand. Includes CPA (Cost Per Action), CPL (Cost Per Lead), CPC (Cost Per Click), and revenue share models. |
| Cookie Duration | Set by each individual brand partner, ranging from 24 hours to 90 days or more. |
| Application Process | Free to join as a partner. Each brand application is reviewed individually, and some have specific traffic or content requirements. |
| Payment Threshold | Flexible, with a minimum payout that can be set by the user. Payments are processed via direct transfer, BACS, or PayPal. |
| Unique Feature | The "Product Marketplace" contains over 9 million SKUs, allowing partners to generate direct affiliate links for specific products. |
While the depth of the interface can present a learning curve for beginners, the control and transparency it offers are unparalleled. The platform’s cross-device tracking ensures you get credit for conversions even when users switch between mobile and desktop. For publishers managing multiple brand relationships, the centralized dashboard is an invaluable tool for efficiency and growth.
Pros:
- Access to thousands of top-tier, global brands in one place
- Transparent, real-time reporting and advanced analytics
- Advanced tracking features like cross-device and promo code attribution
- Flexible and reliable payment options with multi-currency support
Cons:
- The detailed interface can be complex for new affiliates
- Approval for high-demand brands can be competitive and requires a strong application
- Some brands have a manual approval process, which can take time
Website: https://impact.com
4. Awin (includes ShareASale migration)
Awin is a global affiliate marketing network that has significantly expanded its US presence, particularly after its parent company acquired and began integrating the popular ShareASale platform. This consolidation makes Awin a powerhouse for affiliates, offering access to an enormous and diverse range of brands with affiliate programs across verticals like fashion, technology, home goods, and travel. For publishers, this means one platform can now provide access to thousands of advertisers, from major retail names to niche e-commerce stores.
The platform is known for its robust technology, reliable tracking, and publisher-centric features, including accelerated payment options. The ongoing migration of ShareASale merchants onto the Awin platform simplifies the process for affiliates, creating a unified hub to manage partnerships that were previously split between two networks. This makes it an essential tool for creators seeking a wide variety of partnership opportunities.
Key Program Details & Features
Awin's strength lies in its comprehensive toolset and massive advertiser directory. The platform provides detailed performance reporting, an easy-to-use link builder (including a Chrome extension for on-the-fly link creation), and a clear application process for each advertiser program. Publishers can easily filter and search for brands that align with their audience and content strategy.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Commission Type | Varies by advertiser; includes pay-per-sale (PPS), pay-per-lead (PPL), and pay-per-click (PPC) models. |
| Cookie Duration | Set by individual advertisers, but typically ranges from 30 to 90 days, offering a generous attribution window. |
| Application Process | Free to join, but a small $5 deposit is required for verification, which is credited back to your account with your first payment. |
| Payment Threshold | $20 minimum payout threshold, with options for bi-monthly or monthly payments. |
| Unique Feature | Accelerated payments allow publishers to get paid for validated commissions regardless of when Awin receives the funds from the advertiser. |
While the network offers immense opportunity, the ongoing ShareASale migration may occasionally lead to program changes or require re-application to certain brands. Additionally, some high-profile advertisers on the platform have stricter approval criteria for new publishers. However, for those looking to manage a diverse portfolio of affiliate partnerships through a single, powerful interface, Awin is an industry-leading choice.
Pros:
- Access to over 30,000 advertisers, including brands formerly exclusive to ShareASale
- Advanced reporting, reliable tracking, and user-friendly tools
- Fast and flexible payment options, including accelerated payouts
- Strong global presence with dedicated support for the US market
Cons:
- The ShareASale integration is ongoing, which may cause some temporary disruption
- Some advertisers have strict entry requirements for newer affiliates
- A nominal, refundable $5 sign-up deposit is required for verification
Website: https://www.awin.com/us/
5. Rakuten Advertising (formerly LinkShare)
Rakuten Advertising is a veteran in the affiliate marketing landscape, boasting a long-standing reputation for connecting publishers with premium, household-name brands. As a major affiliate network, it acts as a trusted intermediary, offering a curated marketplace of high-quality advertiser programs primarily in the retail, fashion, and travel sectors. This makes it a go-to platform for established bloggers and content creators looking to partner with some of the biggest brands with affiliate programs.
The network's strength lies in its commitment to quality and its sophisticated technology. Advertisers on the platform are often well-known, which can lead to higher audience trust and better conversion potential. Signing up as a publisher is free, and once approved to the network, you gain access to a suite of tools designed to streamline partnership discovery and campaign management.
Key Program Details & Features
Effectively leveraging Rakuten requires navigating its network structure, where you apply to individual brand programs after joining the main platform. This process ensures that partnerships are a good fit for both the advertiser and the publisher. The platform provides robust reporting, deep linking capabilities, and rotating banner ads to support your promotional efforts.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Commission Type | Primarily CPA (Cost Per Action). Rates and actions are set by each individual advertiser, offering a wide range of percentages and fixed-rate bounties. |
| Cookie Duration | Varies significantly by advertiser. Each brand within the network sets its own cookie window, from 24 hours to 30 days or more. |
| Application Process | Free to join the network. After network approval, you must apply to and be approved by each individual advertiser program you wish to promote. |
| Payment Threshold | $50. Payments are consolidated from all your approved advertisers and paid out by Rakuten once the threshold is met. |
| Unique Feature | Its AI-powered Partnership Discovery tool helps publishers find relevant advertiser programs, speeding up the process of finding mutually beneficial partnerships. |
A key consideration is that the application process is two-tiered: first to the network, then to each brand. This can sometimes be slower than joining a single, in-house program. However, the quality of advertisers and the reliability of the network often make the wait worthwhile. For newcomers, the Publisher Help Center and Quick Start guides provide valuable resources for getting started.
Pros:
- Access to a large portfolio of premium and well-known retail brands
- Strong network reputation and decades of industry reliability
- Consolidated payments from multiple advertiser programs
- Advanced tools like AI-driven partner matching
Cons:
- Program approvals are advertiser-specific and can take time
- The interface can be less intuitive for absolute beginners
- Some support resources require a login to access
Website: https://rakutenadvertising.com
6. eBay Partner Network (EPN)
The eBay Partner Network (EPN) stands as a powerful player among brands with affiliate programs, tapping into one of the world's most dynamic and diverse online marketplaces. Unlike traditional retail programs, EPN allows affiliates to promote a massive inventory of new, used, and refurbished items from millions of sellers globally. This variety makes it a versatile choice for publishers in niches ranging from electronics and collectibles to fashion and automotive parts.
The program's core appeal is its connection to a platform driven by high-intent buyers who are often searching for specific items, deals, or rare finds. Affiliates can capitalize on this existing user behavior, making conversions more attainable. The network provides a suite of tools designed for both beginners and advanced marketers, from simple link generators to sophisticated APIs, ensuring a scalable and customizable affiliate experience.
Key Program Details & Features
Success with the eBay Partner Network involves leveraging its unique marketplace dynamics. EPN offers robust tools like deep-linking to specific product listings or search results, data feeds for integrating listings into your website, and powerful APIs for custom solutions. For US and UK-based creators, the Ambassador program offers an even simpler way to curate and share storefronts.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Commission Type | Varies by product category, generally between 1% and 4%. Commissions are calculated as a percentage of eBay’s revenue from the qualifying transaction. |
| Cookie Duration | 24 hours. A commission is earned if a user clicks your link and places a winning bid or uses "Buy It Now" within that window. |
| Application Process | Free to join. Requires a review of your website or social media presence to ensure it aligns with eBay’s brand and policies. |
| Payment Threshold | $10 for direct deposit in supported currencies. Payments are made monthly. |
| Unique Feature | Commissions are based on eBay's revenue share, not the item's sale price, which is a different model than most retail affiliate programs. |
One of the challenges is that commission structures can vary significantly by category and may change over time, requiring affiliates to stay informed. Managing partnerships effectively on marketplaces like eBay requires careful tracking, and you can learn more about tools for creator collaboration tracking to streamline your workflow. The platform’s central dashboard offers detailed reporting to help affiliates optimize their promotional strategies and focus on high-performing categories.
Pros:
- Vast and diverse inventory covering almost any niche
- Access to high-intent buyers and frequent deals
- You can earn on qualifying purchases beyond just the linked item
- Advanced tools like APIs and data feeds for sophisticated integrations
Cons:
- Short 24-hour cookie duration
- Commission structures can be complex and vary by category
- The simplified Ambassador program is limited to US and UK regions
Website: https://partnernetwork.ebay.com
7. PartnerStack (best for B2B/SaaS affiliate programs)
For affiliates operating in the B2B technology space, PartnerStack is an indispensable platform. It functions as a dedicated marketplace and management tool specifically designed for Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) companies, making it one of the most focused brands with affiliate programs for tech reviewers, consultants, and agencies. Instead of promoting physical products, you're connecting businesses with powerful software solutions, often earning recurring revenue.
The platform’s key differentiator is its emphasis on true partnerships over simple affiliate links. PartnerStack provides the infrastructure for companies like Notion, Asana, and Webflow to build comprehensive partner programs, including referral, affiliate, and reseller channels. For affiliates, this means access to a curated network of high-growth SaaS brands, automated payout systems, and resources designed to help you succeed in a B2B context.
Key Program Details & Features
Understanding PartnerStack means recognizing its dual role as both a marketplace to discover new SaaS programs and a dashboard to manage your existing partnerships. The platform automates tracking, payments, and reporting, consolidating all your B2B affiliate activities into a single, streamlined interface.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Commission Type | Primarily recurring revenue based on subscription renewals. Some programs offer one-time bounties or hybrid models. |
| Cookie Duration | Typically 90 days, but this is set by each individual brand on the platform. |
| Application Process | Free to join the PartnerStack Network. You must then apply to each individual SaaS program within the marketplace. |
| Payment Threshold | $5 minimum for payouts via Stripe or PayPal. Payouts are processed on the 13th of each month. |
| Unique Feature | A curated marketplace connecting affiliates directly with hundreds of top-tier SaaS companies looking for partners. |
The most significant advantage is the potential for long-term, passive income through recurring commissions, as you continue to earn as long as the referred customer remains subscribed. The platform handles complex global payouts and tax compliance, removing a major administrative burden. For affiliates managing a portfolio of B2B promotions, there are powerful ways to enhance your workflow; you can learn more about automation for PartnerStack.
Pros:
- Specializes in high-value B2B SaaS programs
- Recurring commission structure offers long-term earning potential
- Centralized marketplace to discover and manage partnerships
- Automated global payouts and tax handling
Cons:
- Niche focus may not suit affiliates outside the tech/software space
- Some of the most popular programs are invite-only or have strict requirements
- Requires a more consultative or B2B-focused content strategy
Website: https://partnerstack.com
Top 7 Affiliate Networks Comparison
| Affiliate Program | 🔄 Implementation Complexity | ⚡ Resource Requirements | 📊 Expected Outcomes | 💡 Ideal Use Cases | ⭐ Key Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon Associates | Low - Simple onboarding and linking tools | Low - No upfront cost, instant tool access | Moderate - High conversion due to brand trust | Beginners, broad retail promotion | Massive product catalog, high consumer trust |
| CJ (formerly Commission Junction) | Moderate - Program-by-program approvals | Moderate - Learning curve for advanced tools | High - Robust tracking and multi-currency payouts | US-focused publishers targeting major brands | Large advertiser marketplace, reliable payouts |
| impact.com | Moderate - Complex interface for beginners | Moderate - Requires vetting for some brands | High - Real-time reporting, cross-device tracking | Affiliates and creators needing flexibility | Transparent reporting, promo code attribution |
| Awin (includes ShareASale) | Moderate to High - Ongoing migration impact | Moderate - Advanced onboarding and reporting | High - Access to large advertiser base | US and global publishers, especially in fashion and travel | Large global network, accelerated payments |
| Rakuten Advertising (formerly LinkShare) | Moderate - Advertiser-specific approvals | Low to Moderate - Resources available but some gated | Moderate - AI-driven partner matching | Publishers seeking premium US retail/travel brands | Strong network reputation, AI-powered discovery |
| eBay Partner Network (EPN) | Moderate - Advanced integrations possible | Moderate - API and deep-link tools | Moderate to High - High-intent buyers, expanded earnings | US/UK creators, tech-savvy affiliates | Huge inventory, Ambassador program for creators |
| PartnerStack (B2B/SaaS focus) | Moderate - Specialized onboarding processes | Moderate - Focused on SaaS partners | High - Recurring commissions from SaaS subscriptions | B2B SaaS affiliates, subscription models | SaaS specialization, automated global payouts |
Launch Your Affiliate Strategy with the Right Partners
Navigating the landscape of brands with affiliate programs can feel overwhelming, but equipped with the right information, you can transform this potential into a powerful revenue stream. Throughout this guide, we've explored a curated selection of platforms, from the vast marketplace of Amazon Associates to the specialized B2B focus of PartnerStack. Each network, whether it's the global reach of Awin or the robust tracking capabilities of impact.com, offers a unique set of tools and opportunities tailored to different niches and content strategies.
The key takeaway is that success in affiliate marketing isn't about joining every program available. It's about strategic selection. Your ideal partners are those whose products genuinely resonate with your audience and align with your brand's voice, particularly for TikTok Shop sellers where authenticity is paramount. The journey from discovery to conversion begins with choosing partners that add real value to your followers' experience.
From Selection to Implementation: Your Actionable Next Steps
With a clear understanding of the top platforms, your next move is to take decisive action. This is where strategy meets execution. Don't just read this list; use it as a launchpad for building your affiliate marketing engine.
Here are your immediate next steps:
- Audit Your Niche and Audience: Re-evaluate who you're talking to. If your audience is primarily focused on budget-friendly deals, platforms like the eBay Partner Network or the sheer volume of CJ's advertisers might be your best starting point. For audiences interested in premium or B2B SaaS products, PartnerStack is the clear winner.
- Shortlist and Research: Based on your audit, select two or three platforms from this list that seem like the best fit. Dive deeper into their specific merchant directories. Look for brands you already know, love, and use. An authentic recommendation is always more effective.
- Prepare Your Application: Treat your affiliate application like a job application. Ensure your website, TikTok profile, or other social media channels are polished and clearly define your value proposition. Highlight your audience demographics and engagement rates to stand out to program managers.
- Integrate and Test: Once approved, start small. Integrate a few affiliate links into your content naturally. For TikTok creators, this could mean adding a link to a product featured in a video to your bio or creating a dedicated landing page. Track the performance of these initial links to understand what resonates before scaling up.
Building a Scalable Affiliate Engine
Remember, the most successful affiliate marketers treat this as a core business function, not a passive afterthought. This means focusing on building relationships, tracking performance meticulously, and optimizing your strategy based on hard data. Factors like cookie duration, commission structure, and payment thresholds are not just minor details; they are critical variables that will determine your long-term profitability and workflow.
By carefully selecting the right brands with affiliate programs and implementing a data-driven approach, you can move beyond one-off commissions. You can build a reliable and scalable income source that complements your primary business objectives, whether that's growing your TikTok Shop or expanding your e-commerce brand's reach. The tools and platforms are at your disposal; the next move is yours.
Ready to scale your affiliate partnerships without the manual overhead? HiveHQ automates your creator outreach and centralizes performance tracking, allowing you to manage hundreds of affiliate relationships effortlessly. Transform your TikTok Shop's affiliate strategy from a time-consuming task into a powerful, automated growth engine by visiting HiveHQ today.