Like many people the idea of reaching space has long been a dream of mine. One of my hobbies includes constructing and launching ARHAB's (high altitude balloons) which only reach the edge of space but still scientifically are in space. I have launched 3, 2 of which successfully reached space and one failed after popping too early. Pictures taken form these devices are incredible, showing the curvature of the earth and a gradient of blue going to black (the atmosphere of earth). I have seen a number of businesses offering to take small payloads into space for a fee (often around $300-$400). The thing I cannot understand is how these companies make any money. To be honest I can't imagine many people wanting things launched into space. The only way I can see how this would attract people or businesses is sending their logo, advertisement or business card and take a picture with the curving horizon of space in the background. This would merely be for novelty purposes though and would really only attract engineering, technological and aviation businesses.
Any comments are welcome!

Regards
ABurchell