Kickstarter

Definition

Kickstarter is a crowdfunding platform that enables creators to present their projects to the public and raise funds to bring their ideas to life. This platform has become a significant player in the digital revolution, allowing artists and innovators from various fields to connect with backers who are interested in supporting creative ventures, thereby changing the landscape of art funding in the late 20th and early 21st centuries.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Kickstarter was launched in 2009 and quickly gained popularity as a viable source of funding for creative projects across various industries.
2. The platform operates on an all-or-nothing funding model, meaning that projects must reach their funding goal within a specified time frame to receive any money pledged.
3. Since its inception, Kickstarter has funded thousands of projects, ranging from independent films and art installations to innovative tech gadgets and board games.
4. The platform has empowered many artists and creators who previously struggled to secure traditional funding sources, allowing for more diverse and unique projects to emerge.
5. Kickstarter has inspired similar crowdfunding platforms, which have expanded the ways creators can engage with their audiences and finance their work.

Review Questions

• How does Kickstarter's all-or-nothing funding model impact the types of projects that get launched on the platform?
  • Kickstarter's all-or-nothing funding model encourages creators to set realistic funding goals and develop compelling pitches to attract backers. This model tends to filter out projects that may not have enough public interest or viability, leading to a concentration of successful campaigns that resonate with potential supporters. As a result, this system promotes quality over quantity and encourages artists to genuinely connect with their audience before launching a project.
• Analyze how Kickstarter has influenced the traditional art funding landscape and opportunities for artists.
  • Kickstarter has disrupted traditional art funding methods by offering an alternative that empowers creators to bypass gatekeepers like galleries and grant organizations. This shift allows artists to engage directly with their audience, gain financial support without compromising their vision, and democratize access to funding. Consequently, this has resulted in a wider variety of art being produced as more unique voices are able to find support through crowdfunding.
• Evaluate the long-term implications of Kickstarter's model on the sustainability of artistic practices in the digital age.
  • The long-term implications of Kickstarter's model suggest that while it provides immediate financial resources for artists, it may also lead to dependency on crowdfunding for project viability. Artists might feel pressured to consistently produce commercially appealing work to secure funding rather than explore innovative or experimental ideas. Furthermore, as more creators enter the crowdfunding space, competition for backers may intensify, potentially making it harder for individual projects to stand out unless they leverage effective marketing strategies.

Related terms

Crowdfunding: A method of raising money for a project or venture by gathering small contributions from a large number of people, often via the internet.

Backer: An individual or entity that supports a project on a crowdfunding platform by contributing funds in exchange for rewards or early access to the product.

Creative Projects: Various artistic and innovative endeavors, including films, music, art installations, games, and technology products, that can be funded through platforms like Kickstarter.