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Oct 23, 2025|FAST Network

The Demand for Entertainment Will Never Fade

No matter how quickly the world changes, one constant remains: people crave entertainment. Streaming models continue to attract strong audiences by offering on-demand access to films and shows, while FAST networks are gaining traction with viewers who enjoy the familiar, linear “TV-like” experience. As competition intensifies across formats, integrating sweepstakes directly into programming presents a powerful opportunity—engaging home viewers in real time, fostering loyalty, and keeping audiences invested well beyond the content itself.

FAST Networks October 2025

What is a FAST Network?

A FAST network is a Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television network. It delivers TV-style programming via the internet without a subscription fee, instead generating revenue from advertising. Examples include Pluto TV, Tubi, The Roku Channel, and Samsung TV Plus. FAST networks typically offer:

  • Linear channels: Scheduled, continuous streams (like traditional TV) rather than solely on-demand content.
  • Free access: No paywalls; supported by commercials.
  • Wide distribution: Available on smart TVs, streaming devices, and apps.

FAST Networks Growth Spurt

A look at the industry suggests FAST Networks are experiencing a growth spurt compared to Ad-Supported Video on Demand (AVOD) Networks such as YouTube, Hulu, Peacock. And it’s not a coincidence that FAST Network growth parallels consumer dissatisfaction with paid streaming networks that pivot to ad-driven models with little recourse for consumers. One big difference between FAST and AVOD Networks is that AVOD Networks may include freemium tiers, but they may also permit consumers to pay for fewer ads or additional features. FAST Networks generally do not have these ad-reduction or enhanced feature options.

  • According to Gracenote (via Nielsen), the number of global FAST channels grew nearly 14% from Q1 2025. (Source: Nielsen)
  • Over the past two years (i.e. since 2023), FAST channel count has increased by 76%. (Source: NewscastStudio)
  • Additionally, industry forecasts project the global FAST market will grow ~23% per year through 2030. (Source: com)

FAST networks are outpacing traditional AVOD platforms because they deliver a familiar, “lean-back” viewing experience that mirrors traditional television while offering the convenience of streaming. Their curated, genre-based channels simplify content discovery, reduce decision fatigue, and keep viewers engaged longer. With lower operating costs, broad distribution through smart TVs, and strong advertiser appeal, FAST networks combine nostalgia with accessibility—making them one of the fastest-growing segments in the streaming landscape.

Three Challenges to Growth

Knowing your growth is skyrocketing is what every business wants. And while it’s clear FAST Networks are having a heavily covetous moment, to keep the trend going they need to strategically address three major challenges to their growth:

  1. Discovery and Differentiation: FAST platforms struggle to stand out in an increasingly crowded marketplace and viewers often face “choice fatigue,” making it difficult for new or niche channels to gain traction.
  2. Content Quality and Licensing Costs: Reliance on licensed or repurposed library content keeps costs low but can limit originality and engagement. As competition intensifies, access to quality, recognizable content becomes more expensive—eroding the cost advantage that fueled early growth.
  3. Monetization and Measurement: While ad revenue powers the FAST model, inconsistent measurement standards and fragmented audiences make it difficult to prove value to advertisers.

Strategic Growth Solution for Ad-Supported Streaming: Sweepstakes

Sweepstakes are a proven marketing tool that help FAST networks attract new viewers, strengthen loyalty, and collect valuable first-party data directly from their audience. When prizes are tailored to viewer interests, sweepstakes become a powerful way to deepen engagement and turn casual viewers into committed fans.

FAST networks can use sweepstakes to accelerate growth in two key ways:

  1. Integrate with Programming: Align sweepstakes with featured shows, themed channels, or seasonal content to create appointment viewing moments that boost engagement, ad impressions, and retention.
  2. Expand Through Social Activation: Extend reach through social calls-to-action—encouraging viewers to share, follow, or participate using branded hashtags—to amplify awareness and drive organic audience growth without added media spend.

By weaving sweepstakes into their programming and promotional strategies, FAST networks can stand out in a crowded market and build lasting relationships with their audiences. One example of a FAST network sweepstakes is the Roku All-Star Bundle Sweepstakes, which is designed to promote subscriptions to Disney, Hulu, and ESPN.

Conclusion: Turning Viewers into Loyal Fans

As entertainment habits evolve, FAST networks are redefining how audiences connect with content. Their continued success depends on standing out, engaging viewers, and building loyalty that lasts. Sweepstakes offer a dynamic way to achieve all three—combining emotional engagement with measurable results. By integrating sweepstakes into programming or social activations, FAST networks can deepen audience connection, boost visibility, and turn casual viewers into devoted fans.

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