Editor's note: This story is revised from the print edition.
The Denver Broncos have completed several new partnerships for the team's Web site that should lead to record profits for the 5-year-old venture, according to Steve Harbula, director of marketing communications for the franchise.
Denverbroncos.com recently signed Verizon SuperPages and MLT Vacations to sponsorship deals for the 2003 season. Harbula said each deal is worth between $40,000 and $50,000.
Verizon SuperPages becomes presenting sponsor of the site's Press Box section and gains a banner presence. MLT Vacations will be presenting sponsor of the Fan Fare section and also gets a banner presence.
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| Revenue at denverbroncos.com is expected to reach mid-six figures this year. |
Separately, the Broncos have signed as a new hosting partner locally based ViaWest Internet Services, which brings video and Flash technology capabilities. Another Denver firm, Creation Chamber, has been signed as the site's new developer. Both firms were signed for two years. Creation's deal was a cash arrangement, Harbula said, while ViaWest will receive promotional rights as an official sponsor of the Broncos.
Harbula said denverbroncos.com has been profitable every year since its inception. He added that he expects site revenue to approach mid-six figures this year.
Denverbroncos.com generates all of its revenue from sponsorships and merchandise sales, Harbula said. The site has been able to keep expenses in the low six figures annually because much of its related work is done in-house. With two full-time employees and one part-time worker, the Broncos have one of the NFL's larger online staffs.
"It's been a tough couple of years," Harbula said, "but it looks like the market may be starting to turn around."
