Crowdfunding by
This book aims to take stock and systemize existing knowledge on crowdfunding while providing overview of the industry, its regulatory environment and advancing the insight into the role of crowdfunding in the startup lifecycle. It is adopting an exploratory and phenomenon-based approach which is deemed appropriate when investigating rather new phenomena. Furthermore, the research combines survey and interview methodologies to assess the opinion and real-world behavior of different stakeholders in crowdfunding marketplace and identify gaps requiring further academic consideration. Empirical data was gathered using multiple interactive web-based questionnaires distributed to different stakeholders and "informed general public" mainly through the social networks (Linkedin, Facebook and Twitter) and direct solicitation of entrepreneurial associations, networks and online communities. The study conducted relies on both qualitative and quantitative analysis in attempt to find data patterns useful in future research and establish some managerial and policymaker recommendations based on limited evidence collected. The work adds value to this field through a 3-fold contribution: Taking a look at crowdfunding through the prism of SWOT analysis of the practice itself and Porter's 5 forces analysis of crowdfunding platforms industry. Providing evidence in favor of implementing various degrees of regulation based on different crowdfunding categories, using the Italian case of equity-based crowdfunding regulation as a model. Finally, it yields some interesting findings on relevance of crowdfunding in the venture startup while pointing out key motivators which make entrepreneurs consider this fundraising option. In addition, related policymaker/managerial implications are exposed and academic literature updated with reference to contemporary developments in this dynamic field.
The Crowdfunding Handbook by
Ever wish your company could raise capital the Kickstarter#65533; way? Equity crowdfunding is finally here, opening new funding avenues for small businesses and start-ups. In April 2012, President Obama signed the Jumpstart Our Business Startups-or JOBS-Act into law. This groundbreaking legislation empowers privately-owned companies to raise capital from investors without going through the rigorous IPO and private placement processes. Now that the SEC has handed down the last regulations, the floodgates will open and companies will be free to compete for funding. Small business and legal expert Cliff Ennico has followed the equity crowdfunding story since its inception. Now, in The Crowdfunding Handbook, he explains the JOBS Act and translates the regulations into a clear set of do's and don'ts for entrepreneurs and small-business owners looking to get in early-and do things right. Need help pricing your securities? Pitching a project to the public? Choosing between funding platforms? Figuring out disclosure documents and reporting requirements? This book delivers targeted answers-whether crowdfunding is your best bet, picking the right legal entity, selecting types of securities to offer, reaching the most promising investors, keeping crowds under control, and more. IPOs are expensive, and venture capital nearly impossible to attract. Crowdfunding is changing the game for private companies . . . and this book will lead the way. "
A Crowdfunder's Strategy Guide by
More Than Money Jamey Stegmaier knows crowdfunding. He's a veteran of seven successful Kickstarter campaigns (and counting) that have raised over $3.2 million, and he's the proprietor of the widely read Kickstarter Lessons blog. In this book he offers a comprehensive guide to crowdfunding, demonstrating that it can be a powerful way for entrepreneurs to grow their businesses by building community and putting their customers first. This book includes over forty stories of inspiring successes and sobering disasters. Stegmaier uses these examples to demonstrate how to (and how not to) prepare for a campaign, grow a fan base, structure a pitch, find new backers, and execute many other crucially important "nuts and bolts" elements of a successful crowdfunding project. But Stegmaier emphasizes that the benefits of crowdfunding are much more about the "crowd" than the "funding." He shows that if you treat your backers as people, not pocketbooks--communicate regularly and transparently with them, ask their opinions, attend to their needs--they'll become advocates as well as funders, exponentially increasing your project's chances of succeeding.
Crowdfunding is a way to raise funds for a specific cause or project by asking a large number of people to donate money, usually in small amounts, and usually during a relatively short period of time, such as a few months (Foundation Center, 2017). Crowdfunding is done online, often with social networks, which make easy for supporters to share a cause or project cause with their social networks.
Organizations, businesses, and individuals alike can use crowdfunding for any type of project, for example: charitable cause; creative project; business startup; school tuition; or personal expenses.
For more information about crowdfunding, visit What is Crowdfunding via the Foundation Center's Grantspace Portal.
This page was adapted from the Michigan State University, Crowdfunding. Permission Jon Harrison, 2017.
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