If you’ve been searching for a low-cost way to start a profitable local marketing business, the 9×12 EDDM postcard system might be exactly what you need.
A 9×12 postcard is a large, Every Door Direct Mail (EDDM)-approved card that features multiple local business ads — typically 12 or more — on one shared mailer. This system is known as co-op advertising, and it helps small businesses get affordable exposure while you, the agency owner, earn income from each ad spot sold.
In this post, we’ll explore how the 9×12 postcard system works, how to design your postcard layouts, and how to use our editable Canva and website templates to launch your own co-op advertising agency with ease.
What Is a 9×12 Postcard and How Does It Work?
A 9×12 postcard is a large-format mailer approved by USPS for EDDM (Every Door Direct Mail) campaigns. Instead of one business paying the full mailing cost, several businesses share the space — and the cost.
As a 9×12 agency owner, you organize the postcard, sell ad spots to local businesses, and handle printing and mailing. Businesses love it because they get targeted local reach for a fraction of the price of solo mailers.
It’s a proven co-op advertising model that works perfectly for small towns, neighborhoods, or local service areas.
Designing Your 9×12 Postcard
You don’t need to be a professional designer to create stunning postcards. Our 9×12 postcard templates make it simple.
Each template includes:
- Pre-sized 9×12 layout optimized for USPS EDDM
- 12 ad placeholders ready for your local business ads
- Editable Canva files — change text, colors, and logos in minutes
- Print-ready designs that meet EDDM mailing requirements
Keep ads visually consistent — simple offers, clear contact info, and readable fonts work best. Avoid clutter.
9×12 Postcard Design Example #1
9×12 Postcard Design Example #2
9×12 Postcard Design Example #3
9×12 Postcard Design Example #4
Vertical 9×12 Postcard Design Example #1
You can explore all of our ready-to-edit 9×12 postcard templates.
The Website Template for Your Co-op Advertising Agency
Once your postcard is ready, you’ll need a simple, professional website to showcase your service and collect leads from local businesses.
Our 9×12 Agency website template (built with Elementor) includes:
- A homepage that clearly explains the shared-cost EDDM model
- A portfolio section for your past postcards
- An online form where businesses can apply for ad space
- Simple contact and quote request forms
With both postcard and website templates ready to go, your co-op agency can launch in days — not weeks.
Why the 9×12 Postcard System Works
The 9×12 EDDM model is powerful because it combines:
- High visibility – Every mailbox in a chosen route gets your postcard.
- Low cost – Each advertiser only pays for a fraction of the mailing.
- Community connection – It promotes local businesses together.
It’s one of the most sustainable, low-risk marketing agency models out there.
Final Thoughts
Starting a 9×12 EDDM agency doesn’t require expensive software or years of experience. You just need the right tools and templates to get started.
With editable Canva postcard templates and a ready-made agency website, you can focus on selling ads and helping small businesses grow — while building your own steady income stream.
