Which sample method should I use?
Growi can send free product through your connected Shopify store in several ways. All of them (except Creator Codes) end as a $0 Shopify order that your warehouse fulfills like any other order. The difference is who starts the request and whether the creator has to join a program.
Use this | When | Does the creator join? |
Ambassador program samples | You want every new ambassador to request product as part of signup, and later earn commission. | Yes. They apply and become an ambassador. |
Sample Program | You have a shareable link (DM, Linktree, event QR) and do not need them in an ambassador program. | No. They only request samples. |
Gifts | You already know who should get product. You pick the creators and send a claim link. | No. They confirm shipping and options, then the order is created. |
Campaign samples | The sample is part of a paid campaign or contract, not the evergreen ambassador program. | Yes. They join that campaign. |
Creator Codes | You do not want to pick SKUs or ship a box. Let the creator check out themselves at 100% off. | No. They place their own order with a one-time code. |
Note: You can run more than one method at the same time. For example, offer samples on ambassador signup, send Gifts to a shortlist, and keep a Sample Program link for outbound DMs. |
Where requests land
Ambassador samples, Sample Program requests, and campaign samples all show up in Stores > Shopify > Sample Requests. That is the inbox where you approve, reject, swap a variant, or create the Shopify order.
Gifts do not wait in Sample Requests. The creator claims first; Growi then creates the Shopify order. Track those under Stores > Shopify > Gifts.
Creator Codes never create a sample order. The creator checks out on your storefront with a single-use discount. Track those under Stores > Shopify > Creator Codes.
Step-by-step guides
Product Seeding (campaign and TikTok Shop samples)
FAQs
Do I need the Growi Shopify app?
Yes. Sample orders, gifts, and Creator Codes are created in your connected Shopify store. If tracking or order creation fails, reconnect the app from Settings > Integrations.
Will a sample order pay commission?
No. Sample, gift, and Creator Code orders are not affiliate sales.
Can I auto-approve some methods and review others?
Yes. Each ambassador program, Sample Program, and campaign has its own Review each request vs Auto-approve setting.