How do you use crowdfunding platforms to fund your creative project?

1 Choose the right platform

There are many crowdfunding platforms to choose from, but not all of them are suitable for your creative project. Some platforms are more focused on specific niches, such as Kickstarter for creative and innovative projects, Indiegogo for tech and social causes, Patreon for ongoing support from fans, or Unbound for books. You should research the different options and compare their features, fees, rules, and audience. Choose the platform that matches your project's goals, genre, and budget.

2 Set a realistic goal

One of the most important decisions you have to make is how much money you need to raise for your creative project. You should calculate your expenses, such as production costs, rewards, taxes, and fees, and add some contingency for unexpected costs. You should also consider the type of funding model you want to use: all-or-nothing, where you only get the money if you reach your goal, or flexible, where you keep what you raise regardless of your goal. All-or-nothing can create more urgency and credibility, but also more risk. Flexible can reduce the pressure, but also the motivation and trust.

3 Create a compelling pitch

Your pitch is the main way to attract and convince potential backers to support your creative project. You should craft a clear and engaging story that explains what your project is, why it matters, and how it will benefit your backers. You should also include a video that showcases your personality, passion, and vision. Your pitch should answer the following questions: What is your project about? What is the problem or gap that your project addresses? What is your solution or unique approach? What are your credentials and track record? What are your rewards and how will you deliver them? How will you use the funds and what are the risks and challenges?

4 Offer attractive rewards

Rewards are the incentives that you offer to your backers in exchange for their pledges. Rewards can be physical or digital products, services, experiences, or acknowledgments related to your creative project. You should design rewards that are appealing, relevant, and feasible. You should also offer a range of rewards for different levels of contribution, from low to high. Some examples of rewards are: a copy of your book, film, or album, a personalized thank-you note, a shout-out on social media, a behind-the-scenes access, a consultation session, a workshop, a cameo appearance, or a co-creator credit.

5 Promote your campaign

Promoting your campaign is essential to reach and persuade potential backers to support your creative project. You should start building your audience and network before you launch your campaign, and maintain a regular communication with them throughout your campaign. You should use various channels and methods to spread the word about your project, such as email, social media, blogs, podcasts, press releases, events, or referrals. You should also create a marketing plan that outlines your goals, strategies, tactics, and metrics for each stage of your campaign: pre-launch, launch, mid-campaign, and end-campaign.

6 Engage your backers

Engaging your backers is important to keep them interested and involved in your creative project. You should update them frequently on your progress, challenges, and achievements. You should also thank them for their support, answer their questions, solicit their feedback, and encourage them to share your campaign with others. You should also deliver your rewards on time and as promised, and follow up with them after your campaign is over. Engaging your backers can help you build trust, loyalty, and advocacy for your creative project.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?