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Crowdfunding is the practice of funding a project or venture by raising small contributions from a large number of people, typically via the internet. It enables creators to bypass traditional financial intermediaries by presenting a project on a digital platform and inviting public participation. Campaigns usually offer rewards, equity, debt promises, or donations to contributors, depending on the model.

There are several crowdfunding models: rewards-based, where backers receive a product or perk; donation-based, where contributions are given without expectation of material return; equity crowdfunding, where investors receive equity; and debt-based (lending-based) crowdfunding, where financiers are repaid with interest. A common distinction is between all-or-nothing campaigns, which fund only if the target is met, and flexible funding, which disburses funds regardless of outcome.

Origins trace to earlier social fundraising and microfinancing; modern platforms emerged in the 2000s, with Kickstarter (2009) and Indiegogo (2008) popularizing the model. GoFundMe and similar sites specialize in philanthropy and personal appeals. In regulated markets, crowdfunding activities intersect with securities law and consumer protection; jurisdictions have implemented rules governing disclosures, investment limits, and platform conduct.

Advantages include rapid access to capital, market validation, and community building, while risks involve project failure, delays, fraud, and misalignment between promised and delivered rewards or returns. Platform operators typically collect fees and may require compliance checks.

Crowdfunding has become a global instrument for startups, creative projects, charitable campaigns, and niche ventures, influencing traditional fundraising by expanding avenues for early-stage financing and audience engagement.