I understand the work is more, however, I recently setup my consulting business and this seemed like a great opportunity to get the name out there and expand the network.

I don't think that's obvious. There aren't necessarily easily interchangeable contacts available for more than that, and for many people $500 in under ten days is more than they would earn in their job. Students for example could easily be qualified to do this, perhaps be on a break and have time, and would otherwise be earning nothing. Not to mention the resume padding and connection building opportunities.