I'm wondering if anyone is part of or knows anyone part of the Indie Game Developers Network or the Indie Game Alliance?
IGDN is $50 the first year and $100 each year after that.
IGA is free the first month and then $200 a year if you pay up front. A Non-pro account is mentioned but I'm not sure how that works.
Both groups advertise various resources they make available to members. At first glance, IGA seems to offer a more robust system for marketing and playtesting. IGDN seems to mainly offer advice from their experience and help in working through the design process.
I've listened to some of the podcasts put out by IDGN and learned some tips, both groups run booths at cons. IDGN seems a bit more uppity from reading their website which I don't think I'd be able to handle.
IGA seems more "everybody in" but I'm not sure that breeds quality. The big thing they have on their side is a group of playtesters and GMs that will run your game at FLGSs.
Are these money sinks for someone like me or would I get milage out of them? Honestly, for the price, just having allies that cross promote a product (or Kickstarter) sounds like it would be worth it.