Crowdfunding Sites: A Comprehensive List

Crowdfunding has become the go-to platform for entrepreneurs, innovators, artists, and anyone who wants to fund their ventures. Through crowdfunding, project owners can raise funds from a large number of people rather than relying on just a few investors or a bank loan. This has democratized the funding process and made it possible for anyone with a good idea to get the backing they need.

There are thousands of crowdfunding sites out there, each with a different niche or focus. To help funders find the right crowdfunding platform for their needs, we have divided them into two main categories – donation-based and investment-based sites.

Donation-Based Funding Sites

Donation-based sites accept contributions from individuals who want to support a cause or creative project. These funders do not expect any equity or profit-sharing in return for their donation. Instead, project owners offer backers some rewards or perks, depending on their level of funding. Here are some of the best donation-based crowdfunding sites:

1. Kickstarter

Kickstarter is one of the pioneers of crowdfunding and the largest platform for creative projects. It allows people to raise money for their art, music, film, tech, or other creative projects. Kickstarter has helped fund over 195,000 projects by raising over $5 billion from more than 17 million backers. However, it does not provide an option for businesses or personal funding.

2. Indiegogo

Indiegogo is another popular crowdfunding platform that offers both creative and personal funding. Project owners can raise money for their art, music, film, tech, or other creative projects, as well as for personal needs such as medical or education bills. Indiegogo has helped fund over 800,000 campaigns from more than 16 million backers.

3. GoFundMe

GoFundMe is a donation-based site that is ideal for raising funds from family and friends. Project owners can create campaigns and share them via social media or email to their contacts. Friends and family can also share these campaigns, which can help to widen the circle of supporters.

4. Quirky

Quirky is a crowdfunding site that is dedicated to inventors and tinkerers. If you have a unique idea, a gadget, or an invention, Quirky can help fund it. The site has over 110,000 active community members, who can help refine, market, and commercialize your product.

5. TeeSpring

TeeSpring is more of a pre-selling platform than a crowdfunding site. It allows t-shirt designers to submit their designs, which they can then pre-sell to a specific number of people. TeeSpring takes care of the printing, shipping, and customer service, while the designer keeps all the profits.

Investment-Based Funding Sites

Investment-based crowdfunding sites, as the name suggests, allow project owners to raise funds by offering equity, profit-sharing, or convertible notes to investors. These crowdfunding sites are best suited for businesses, startups, and entrepreneurs who want to raise capital to expand, develop new products, or scale their operations. However, these sites often require that investors meet certain criteria, such as being accredited.

Here are some of the best investment-based crowdfunding sites:

1. CrowdFunder

CrowdFunder is one of the leading investment-based crowdfunding sites, with a large network of accredited investors. It allows entrepreneurs and businesses to raise capital by offering equity or convertible notes to investors. CrowdFunder has helped fund over 1000 businesses, raising over $200 million.

2. EquityNet

EquityNet is another investment-based crowdfunding site that focuses on helping businesses raise capital. It offers a unique business analysis software that can help project owners create a comprehensive business plan. It also helps busy investors evaluate investment opportunities faster.

3. AngelList

AngelList is a crowdfunding site that connects startups with investors. It offers a platform that showcases promising startups, along with their team’s information, past investments, and traction. This enables investors to choose startups that align with their interests and investment strategy.

4. Fundable

Fundable is a crowdfunding site that offers both donation-based and investment-based funding options. Entrepreneurs and startups can raise capital by offering equity, convertible notes, or product orders to investors. Fundable has helped fund over $500 million in startups and small businesses.

5. SeedInvest

SeedInvest is an investment-based crowdfunding site that focuses on helping early-stage startups raise capital. It offers a curated platform that showcases startups that have gone through a rigorous screening process. SeedInvest has helped fund over 250 startups, raising over $200 million.

Conclusion

Crowdfunding has transformed the way people fund their projects, businesses, and creative ideas. With so many crowdfunding sites to choose from, it can be overwhelming to find the right one. However, by identifying whether you need a donation-based or investment-based crowdfunding site, you can narrow down your search. This comprehensive list of crowdfunding sites can help funders find the right platform for their needs.