Kickstarter

Definition

Kickstarter is a crowdfunding platform that allows creators to raise funds for their projects by appealing directly to the public for support. This platform empowers individuals and small businesses to gather financial backing from backers who are interested in their ideas, turning dreams into reality through collective investment. As a vital player in the rise of participatory culture, Kickstarter fosters direct engagement between creators and their audience, encouraging collaboration and community involvement in the creative process.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Kickstarter was founded in 2009 and has since helped fund over 200,000 projects across various categories such as art, technology, design, and games.
2. The platform operates on an all-or-nothing funding model, meaning projects must reach their funding goal to receive any money pledged by backers.
3. Kickstarter has empowered many independent creators, allowing them to bypass traditional funding methods like loans or venture capital.
4. The site emphasizes transparency, with creators required to share detailed information about their projects and how funds will be used.
5. Community engagement is key on Kickstarter; many projects thrive on the feedback and support they receive from backers during the funding period.

Review Questions

• How does Kickstarter exemplify the principles of participatory culture in the digital age?
  • Kickstarter exemplifies participatory culture by enabling direct interaction between creators and their audience. The platform allows anyone with a creative idea to pitch it to potential backers, inviting them to participate in the funding process. This model not only democratizes access to financial support but also fosters a sense of community where backers feel invested in the success of the projects they choose to support.
• In what ways has Kickstarter transformed traditional funding avenues for creative projects?
  • Kickstarter has significantly transformed traditional funding avenues by allowing creators to reach out directly to consumers instead of relying solely on banks or investors. This shift gives creators more control over their projects and allows them to gauge public interest before launching. Additionally, the all-or-nothing model incentivizes backers to rally around a project, which can lead to increased visibility and community support.
• Evaluate the long-term impacts of Kickstarter on the creative economy and independent entrepreneurship.
  • Kickstarter has had profound long-term impacts on the creative economy by fostering a culture where independent entrepreneurs can thrive outside of traditional industry structures. By providing an accessible platform for funding, it encourages innovation and risk-taking among creators who may have previously lacked resources. Furthermore, this shift enhances diversity in the marketplace as unique voices and unconventional ideas gain visibility and financial support, ultimately enriching the overall cultural landscape.

Related terms

Crowdfunding: A method of raising money from a large number of people, typically via the internet, to fund a project or business venture.

Backer: An individual who supports a project on Kickstarter by contributing funds, often in exchange for rewards or early access to the product.

Creative Economy: An economic system where creativity and innovation are key drivers of economic growth and cultural development, heavily influenced by platforms like Kickstarter.