For more than 18 years, Second Street has been a trusted partner to local, regional, and national media organizations, powering thousands of interactive promotions – from “Best Of” contests and seasonal sweepstakes to user generated content, brackets, and engaging quizzes. These initiatives consistently deliver measurable results: higher engagement, larger databases, and new revenue streams. 

And now, with Text-to-Vote (coming soon), we’re taking it to the next level – making participation easier than ever while unlocking fresh monetization opportunities through keyword sponsorships.  

What is Text-to-Vote? 

Text-to-Vote is a simple, interactive way for audiences to participate in “Best Of” ballots using Text on their mobile phones. Instead of filling out forms or navigating websites, participants cast their votes by sending a unique keyword via SMS to a dedicated short code or 10DLC number. Each vote triggers an instant confirmation message, creating a seamless experience that feels personal and immediate. 

How Publishers Can Monetize Text-to-Vote Campaigns 

Text-to-vote campaigns aren’t just a fun way to engage audiences – they’re powerful revenue generators. Publishers can sell branded keywords to advertisers, turning simple voting mechanics into premium sponsorship opportunities. These keywords become the centerpiece of a multi-channel promotional strategy: 

• In-Print: Feature the keyword prominently in magazines or newspapers alongside compelling calls to action.
• Online: Integrate voting prompts into articles, banner ads, and social media posts to drive digital engagement.
• On-Air: Mention the keyword during radio or TV segments to capture attention in real time.
• Point-of-Sale: Encourage participation at physical locations with signage and QR codes, creating a seamless offline-to-online experience. 

By bundling these placements, publishers and broadcasters offer advertisers a holistic campaign that not only drives votes but also builds brand awareness across multiple touchpoints. The result? Increased audience interaction, measurable engagement, and a new revenue stream that leverages the immediacy and simplicity of SMS. 

A Six-Figure Revenue Opportunity 

But don’t just take our word for it. We spoke with Reilly Kneedler, Chief of Staff at Wick Communications – a family-owned media company that operates digital publications, newspapers, and specialty magazines across 10 Western states, from Alaska to Minnesota – about how text-to-vote drove significant new revenue into the business. 

Here’s what he said:

"Adding text-to-vote to our Best Of ballot added significant new revenue to the program. It removed friction for voters, expanded participation beyond our traditional audience, and created new revenue opportunities we’d never tapped into before. The simplicity and accessibility of texting helped us generate six-figure revenue from deeper engagement and more advertisers wanting to be part of the excitement."

Reilly Kneedler, Chief of Staff at Wick Communications

Why Text-to-Vote Unlocks New Audience Engagement Opportunities 

Text-to-Vote offers a level of accessibility that other digital channels simply can’t match. Unlike app-based or web-driven campaigns, SMS doesn’t require a Wi-Fi connection or a smartphone – it works on virtually any mobile device. This makes it ideal for reaching audiences who may not have consistent internet access or who prefer simpler technology. 

Text also bridges demographic gaps. While younger audiences are glued to apps, older generations are highly comfortable with SMS, making it a perfect tool for inclusive engagement. Whether your audience is urban or rural, tech-savvy or traditional, text ensures participation is easy, immediate, and universal. 

By leveraging SMS, publishers can create campaigns that truly connect with everyone – no downloads, no barriers, just a simple message that drives interaction. 

Want to see how Text-to-Vote can work for your organization? 

Contact us today to schedule a meeting with a Second Street expert. We’ll walk you through how Text-to-Vote can simplify participation, grow your database, and unlock new revenue streams through innovative keyword sponsorships.