There are numerous free banner exchange programs.  These operate by submitting your banner to the exchange with a banner rotating sites included in the program on your site in return.  The concept is great, considering free advertising is an attractive way to get your promotion off the ground.  It is important, however; to be selective on the exchanges you choose to utilize.  I suggest Link Exchange, Banner Women, or Moms in Business Banner Exchange.  A clean and eye-catching banner is essential for this promotion to attract hits.  It may be worth your money to have a quality banner designed to represent your site.

Search for sites of similar interest and email the designer or webmaster to request a link exchange.  Avoid mediocre sites.  Create exchanges with sites as good or better than your own.  You may not receive too many hits from this form of promotion, but it is nice to see your competition and bond with your peers.

Web rings are created by linking sites of similar interest in a ring from one site to the next.  The pro to joining web rings is increased free exposure.  Of course, the con is a surfer may stop and stay at competitor sites along the search through the ring.  The same logic works with web rings as banner and link exchanges.  Only associate your site with rings containing reputable and well-put together sites.

Obviously, marketing your web site on a tight budget is not the same as paying to have your site promoted.  You do have to start somewhere and I believe you will be delightfully surprised with the results of your efforts on the low budget plan with the promotion ideas discussed above.  Good Luck!