Marketing Funding

Auto Co-op Programs Offset Dealer Ad Costs via Three Funding Models

United States – October 27, 2026 -- Auto manufacturers fund dealer advertising through three co-op structures: fixed funding, percentage-based reimbursement and match programs. Under a match program, a dealer that spends $1,000 on a digital ad campaign has that investment matched by the manufacturer, according to a dealer guide from COOPABLE.

Three program formats tie manufacturer funds to sales or ad spend

Under fixed funding programs, manufacturers allocate a set amount of marketing money. Dealers claim a percentage of it, typically determined by units sold or a sales target.

Percentage-based programs reimburse dealers according to a percentage of their sales, so higher vehicle volume unlocks more claimable funds. Match programs cap manufacturer contributions at a set limit.

COOPABLE, Lotlinx Let Dealers Use OEM Co-Op Funds for VIN Ads

LEXINGTON – October 27, 2026 -- COOPABLE and Lotlinx have launched a partnership that lets all Lotlinx dealers apply eligible manufacturer co-op funds toward Lotlinx solutions, with COOPABLE handling the administrative workload. The arrangement went live on March 1, 2026.

COOPABLE takes over approvals, claims and compliance for dealers

COOPABLE will manage co-op approvals, claim submissions, compliance documentation and reimbursement tracking. Dealers will no longer have to gather supporting documentation, submit proof of performance or monitor reimbursement status. Approved funds will flow through standard OEM reimbursement channels.

Dealers keep access to Lotlinx's machine learning and data intelligence, which they use to predict and act on inventory risk through VIN-specific strategies.