Here’s a concise overview of popular crowdfunding platforms for an American audience in 2025, focusing on international options suitable for creative, tech, charitable, and business projects. FundAnything.com, mentioned earlier, is no longer active, so here are the top alternatives:
Crowdfunding Platforms for the U.S.
- Kickstarter
- Description: A leading platform for creative and tech projects (games, gadgets, art).
- Features: All-or-nothing model—if the goal isn’t met, funds are returned. 5% platform fee + 3–5% payment processing.
- Pros: Massive audience, ideal for innovative ideas.
- Cons: Strict moderation, high competition.
- Link: kickstarter.com
- Indiegogo
- Description: Supports diverse projects, from tech to charity.
- Features: Flexible funding (keep funds even if goal isn’t met, 9% fee) or fixed funding (4% if goal reached).
- Pros: Fewer restrictions than Kickstarter, great for startups.
- Cons: Smaller audience.
- Link: indiegogo.com
- GoFundMe
- Description: Top choice for personal, medical, and charitable campaigns.
- Features: No platform fee, but 2.9% + $0.30 per transaction.
- Pros: User-friendly, large audience, mobile app.
- Cons: Limited for commercial projects.
- Link: gofundme.com
- Patreon
- Description: Subscription-based support for creators (musicians, artists, podcasters).
- Features: Ideal for ongoing content, 5–12% fee.
- Pros: Steady income, strong community support.
- Cons: Not for one-time projects.
- Link: patreon.com
- Crowd Supply
- Description: Focuses on electronics and open-source hardware.
- Features: Assists with production and distribution.
- Pros: Niche support for tech projects, less competition.
- Cons: Smaller audience.
- Link: crowdsupply.com
- StartEngine
- Description: Equity crowdfunding for startups, allowing investors to buy shares.
- Features: Popular for business ventures, noted on X for growth potential.
- Pros: Access to startup investment, scalable.
- Cons: Higher risk, requires investor savvy.
- Link: startengine.com
Tips for Choosing a Platform
- Project Type: Use Kickstarter for creative/tech, GoFundMe for charity, or StartEngine for business.
- Fees: Expect 3–12% in fees, including payment processing.
- Audience: Kickstarter and GoFundMe offer the largest U.S. reach.
- Funding Model: Choose all-or-nothing (Kickstarter) or flexible (Indiegogo) based on your needs.
Leave a Reply