Introduction
If you’re helping an expert launch their first course—or testing a new offer—the seed launch is your best friend. It’s simple, low-risk, and ideal for beginner co‑producers. In this guide, you’ll learn what a seed launch is, how it works, and how to apply it effectively in your co‑production projects.
What Is a Seed Launch?
A seed launch is a type of soft launch where you sell the course before it’s fully created. Instead of building everything upfront, you validate the offer with a small, engaged audience first.
It helps you test interest, refine content, and generate revenue before investing weeks (or months) into production.
Why Use a Seed Launch?
- Faster validation: You confirm if people are willing to pay for the idea
- Less pressure: You create the course as you go, based on real feedback
- Cost-effective: No need to spend on ads or fancy production up front
- Stronger course design: You adjust lessons based on student input during delivery
Perfect Scenarios for Seed Launches
- Expert has no course created yet
- You’re not sure what topic will convert best
- You want to build a warm email list or test a new niche
- You’re testing a co‑production partnership before going “all in”
How a Seed Launch Works (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Define the Offer
- Outline a course transformation: What will students achieve?
- Decide the format: live Zoom classes, weekly videos, Q&A sessions
- Keep it minimal and high-impact (4 to 6 modules is ideal)
Step 2: Build the Waitlist
- Start collecting emails through a landing page
- Use social media posts, DMs, or expert’s audience to drive traffic
- Offer a free resource, mini-class, or live challenge to attract leads
Step 3: Launch to a Small Group
- Send a simple email sequence with your offer
- Host a webinar or live video to explain what’s coming
- Emphasize that it’s the first edition—students get closer access and lower pricing
Step 4: Deliver the Course Week by Week
- Create content after each class, adapting based on student feedback
- Focus on clarity, interaction, and progress—not polish
- Record sessions and edit later for future evergreen versions
Step 5: Collect Testimonials and Feedback
- Ask for feedback after each module
- Record or request short testimonials at the end
- Use this material to build stronger sales pages later
Key Mistakes to Avoid
- Overbuilding before selling
- Promising more than you can deliver in real-time
- Ignoring feedback during the live delivery
- Failing to set clear start and end dates
Final Thoughts
The seed launch is one of the most powerful tools for co‑producers. It’s fast, lean, and perfectly suited for validating offers while building trust and revenue.
Instead of waiting to “get it perfect,” use the seed launch to start, learn, and grow with your expert. Every successful course starts with a first step—and this one’s smart, strategic, and scalable.