Kickstarter

Definition

Kickstarter is a crowdfunding platform that allows creators to raise funds for projects through contributions from backers. It connects individuals with innovative ideas, particularly in creative fields like film, art, and technology, to a community of potential supporters who believe in their vision. This platform has revolutionized how projects get funded, enabling creators to gauge interest and secure financial backing before fully developing their work.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Kickstarter launched in 2009 and has since helped fund thousands of creative projects across various categories including documentaries.
2. Projects on Kickstarter typically run on an all-or-nothing funding model, meaning that if a project doesn't meet its funding goal, no money is collected.
3. Creators often offer different reward tiers for backers, allowing them to receive exclusive content or merchandise based on their level of support.
4. Kickstarter has become a popular tool for independent filmmakers to finance their documentaries, allowing them to connect directly with their audience.
5. Success on Kickstarter can lead to additional opportunities for distribution and funding as it demonstrates market interest in the project.

Review Questions

• How does the crowdfunding model of Kickstarter influence budgeting and scheduling for documentary projects?
  • Kickstarter's crowdfunding model requires creators to set clear budgets and timelines for their projects before launching. This means documentary filmmakers need to plan their expenses carefully to present realistic funding goals. Scheduling also becomes crucial as they need to demonstrate the project's viability within a specific timeframe, which can help attract backers who want to see timely results.
• Discuss the role of backers in the Kickstarter ecosystem and how they affect project outcomes in documentary filmmaking.
  • Backers play a pivotal role in the Kickstarter ecosystem as they provide the necessary funds for projects to come to life. In documentary filmmaking, backers not only contribute financially but also create a community around the project, offering feedback and promoting it within their networks. Their support can significantly enhance visibility and credibility, influencing whether a project reaches its funding goal and ultimately gets completed.
• Evaluate the long-term impact that successful Kickstarter campaigns have on emerging distribution channels for documentaries.
  • Successful Kickstarter campaigns can reshape distribution channels for documentaries by creating built-in audiences before production even begins. When projects are funded successfully, they often gain media attention, leading to partnerships with distributors who recognize the project's market viability. This can open up new avenues for reaching viewers through both traditional platforms and emerging digital channels, making it easier for independent filmmakers to share their stories with wider audiences.

Related terms

Crowdfunding: The practice of funding a project or venture by raising small amounts of money from a large number of people, typically via the internet.

Backer: An individual who supports a project on a crowdfunding platform, often in exchange for rewards or incentives offered by the creator.

Funding Goal: The specific amount of money that a creator aims to raise through a crowdfunding campaign, which must be met for the project to receive any funds.