Hi acidlittle,
As a web developer for more than a decade I agree that you are right to be cautious. Also, this was my first post, like you pointed out, and so often that is an indicator of a fly-by-night, shady person so I wanted to follow up and see if I could alleviate anyone's concerns.
- The purpose of the contest is to help me build an email list of people interested in the products my website will sell after it opens on January 1st.
- The email list is managed by MailChimp, one of the most reputable email distributors who always add reliable ways to remove yourself from the list if you no longer want to receive the emails.
- This is how reputable marketers work, to be frank, we need a way to contact potential customers and email is one of the best ways to do so, when it's done right.
- On January first, when I announce the winners, I will also run a special promotion on the same products so those who did not win will have a chance to benefit if they choose.
- Since the campaign started I have sent one email to the list about a side promotion where I am giving $200 to FeedingAmerica.org once the Facebook page reaches 100 likes. (FYI - They are already holding the $200 and there's no way I would ask for it back.)
- I have a passion for prepping personally, but I would not consider myself an expert. I have more expertise in developing and managing websites and eCommerce so the focus of SurvivalFoodPrep.com will be provide the tools and resources I am best at and hire experts to write about the topics they are experts at.
As I mentioned, my primary business is web development and my company is I'm Not Marvin, LLC. I'm not promoting this business because I have all the work I can handle, but I want people to know that I am accessible through my website, imnotmarvin.com.
I look forward to answering anyone's questions to help demonstrate my legitimacy and my dedication to supporting the prepping community.