TechCrunch experiments with paid subscription model ExtraCrunch
Verizon Media-owned TechCrunch is diversifying its revenue streams with the rollout of a paid subscription model called Extra Crunch.
The publisher said members will get access to exclusive deep-dive articles, tools like a rapid read mode and a list builder which will curate content. There will also be opportunities to regularly talk to founders and experts and preferential pricing will be offered at TechCrunch events.
In a similar vein to start-up Tortoise, members will also be invited to sit in on editorial conference calls.
The diversification of the income model comes after Verizon Media, wrote off and rebranded Oath and later made deep cuts to its media properties.
Ned Desmond, chief operating officer of TechCrunch, said: "Based on feedback from our community we understood there was a gap in the market; our audience wanted more. With our unique lens in the tech ecosystem, TechCrunch can fill that gap, offering our insight, research, data sets, special access at events and most importantly the expertise of our renowned journalists."
He said the membership will be "an incredible tool for our diverse audience from tech enthusiasts, to founders, to those hoping to learn more about the industry".
It will cost $15 per month and launches in the US, Canada, UK, Germany, France, and Spain with expansion plans put down for later in the year.