kickstarter

Kickstarter is a crowdfunding platform for creative projects that lets authors, designers, filmmakers and other creators raise funds from backers in exchange for rewards. Launched in 2009 by Perry Chen, Yancey Strickler and Charles Adler, it is headquartered in Brooklyn, New York. The site focuses on artistic and innovative projects in categories including music, film, art, design and technology.

How it works: A project page displays a funding goal and deadline. Backers pledge money at various reward levels; rewards are predetermined by the creator. Projects operate on an all-or-nothing basis: funds are collected only if the goal is met by the deadline; otherwise pledges are canceled. If funded, Kickstarter charges a 5% platform fee plus payment processing fees (typically around 3% + $0.20 per pledge), and the creator receives the funds minus fees. Creators are responsible for delivering rewards and providing updates to backers.

Impact and scope: Kickstarter has funded many notable campaigns, such as Oculus VR and Pebble, and has significantly shaped consumer-focused crowdfunding and product development. It covers a broad range of creative endeavors, from media and arts to design and technology, and operates globally with varying regional availability. The platform prohibits equity or debt-based fundraising and does not function as venture financing; backers participate as supporters and potential early adopters rather than investors. While it has expanded opportunities for creators, it has also faced criticism over project delivery, delays, and disputes with backers.