One of the best ways to create interest is to make your site membership only. This both creates and feeling of security and friendship. It also makes controlling the content of the site a lot easier if your site accepts content like a forum.

Essentially, a membership site is when anyone pays to access information you publish in a password protected area on your site. You can offer exclusive articles, information, or even a service (like software, games, ebooks, or music). 

People are willing to pay for online content. In fact, pay-for content is emerging as a hot business model. Get paid to turn your hobby, specialized knowledge, or profession into a membership web site.

Alternatively use the membership process as a simple way of making sure only the people who want to can see and contribute to your site.