Crowdfunding

When running a crowdfunding project, best practice dictates not just “sharing on social media” but actual, individualized outreach through either email or social media (i.e. Facebook Messenger). Unfortunately, you cannot do this outreach just once. Instead, you should plan on 3-4 separate messages. Sample templates and their ideal timing are shown below. 

As a reminder, each “touch” via e-mail/Facebook generates only an average of $4. Members of your outreach team should try to reach out to between 20-50 people each in order to have maximum chance of your project being funded.

The biggest myth about crowdfunding is that ‘If I build it, they will come.” Crowdfunding is a process that takes time and dedication from many team members.

Here are some other general guidelines and tips for success.

• Every member of your team should contribute to the project, and early. You cannot expect others to contribute if you haven’t visibly supported the effort yourselves. The amount does not matter as much as potential donors seeing your name listed.
  • This also allows you to invite your network in “joining you” in supporting the project.
• When you do “share” the project on Facebook, there are many things you can do maximize the impact.
  • Make sure the “share” goes directly to your page, and be sure there is a photo.
  • Write a sentence or two about what the project means to you, don’t just dump it on your newsfeed without any context.
  • Tag others on your team on every post. That way your post will reach not just your friend list, but theirs as well.
• Be prepared to provide personal stewardship of some kind to all who donate to your project. A hand-written note, or photo from your trip make great examples of this.