The Top Five Crowdfunding Portals to Launch Your Next Successful Campaign

There are hundreds of crowdfunding websites online vying for your participation. Some websites are dedicated to a very small industry, while others try to encompass all professional and creative platforms. While many crowdfunders may find success with the smaller communities, in terms of credibility and establishment, the following websites have earned their place as the top five crowdfunding portals available:

#1: KickStarter

If you’ve done any prior research, you will notice that Kickstarter appears on every “top crowdfunding website” list – and this is not without reason. Although limited to creative projects from the US and UK (Kickstarter Canada coming soon), this portal has still become one the largest crowdfunding websites online. Since 2009, more than 42,000 projects have raised over $650-million on Kickstarter. Per month, statistics suggest that the site receives 9.9-million visits. But high traffic could work both for and against a campaign, for it is easy to get lost in the background. Luckily, Kickstarter offers many resources to help individuals succeed, making it one of the best opportunities online to obtain funds and improve public name recognition.
Fees: all-or-nothing model, 3-5% transaction fee, 5% of funds raised.

 

#2: Indiegogo

Unlike Kickstarter, Indiegogo is globally open and accessible – not to mention, it has been around a bit longer. While both websites have gained credibility over the years, Indiegogo makes it easier for businesses and individuals to campaign, as there is no rigorous application process. In saying this, however, this portal can become costly if funds have not been raised. Nonetheless, Indiegogo is extremely popular and is a viable choice for any crowdfunder.
Fees: 4% of funds, or 9% of goal if underachieved. Transaction fee of 3%.

#3: WeFunder

For start-ups and small businesses, it was a toss-up between WeFunder and Some Start Good. Some Start Good is a very smart alternative for tech-savvy, socially-adept entrepreneurs, both involved in non-profit and profit business strategies. But it’s very hard to deny the size and potential of WeFunder, which is why it has landed itself a spot on this top five crowdfunding portals list. Currently, there are over 4,586 funders investing over $12,000 on WeFunder; a number that will surely grow as equity-based crowdfunding gains momentum in late 2013, early 2014.

 

#4: RocketHub

RocketHub has two features to take notice of: Launch Pad and Success School. Launch Pad is an award winning feature that pairs campaigners with high-profile brands, companies, and marketers, helping them to build the necessary publicity for success. To ensure the most for every campaign, RocketHub also offers the Success School,which is an educational database all members can browse. Combined, these two features make RocketHub an excellent crowdfunding option.
Fees: 4% of funds, or 8% of funders if goals are unmet. Processing fees vary.

 

#5: Crowdfunder

Another portal for small businesses and start-ups worth paying attention to is Crowdfunder. Its mix of online an offline crowdfunding antics are why so many professionals turn to this portal for funding. With over 20,000 active investors, Crowdfunder is the place for entrepreneurs looking to secure long-term business growth by selling equity, debt, and revenue based securities. Think of Crowdfunder as the business equivalent of Kickstarter, just without the mainstream recognition.
Fees: 5% of funds plus processing fees.