founding-member-tier

name	founding-member-tier
description	Use when launching new course. Founding member = first cohort with special pricing + access.

Founding Member Tier

Founding members: discounted price, exclusive access, lifetime perks. Validate, get testimonials, build community.

Founding member benefits

1. Early-bird pricing — 40-60% off retail
2. Direct instructor access — more 1:1 time
3. Co-creation input — feedback shapes course
4. Exclusive community — first cohort
5. Lifetime access — all future updates free
6. Free upgrades — to higher tiers later
7. Founder badge — public recognition

Benefits to seller

1. Validation — does anyone buy?
2. Testimonials — case studies, social proof
3. Refinement feedback — improve course
4. Word-of-mouth — founders evangelize
5. Initial revenue — cash flow during build
6. Community seed — founders are loyal
7. Anchor pricing — establishes value

Founding launch sequence

1. Pre-announce ('Cohort 1 opening soon')
2. Apply form — first cohort wants engaged students
3. Limited acceptance (30-100 students)
4. Communicate exclusivity + responsibility
5. Onboarding emphasizes co-creation role
6. Active feedback throughout cohort
7. Permanent founding member status

Where this fits in the X3 empire

Founding member tier for CardPrepAI Academy launch.