What are the basics?
A project is a finite work with a clear goal that you’d like to bring to life. Think albums, books, or films. The funding goal is the amount of money that a creator needs to complete their project. Funding on Kickstarter is all-or-nothing. No one will be charged for a pledge towards a project unless it reaches its funding goal. This way, creators always have the budget they scoped out before moving forward.
How do I manage my Messages?
The Messages section of your Kickstarter profile contains any messages that you have sent or received via Kickstarter’s direct messages. You’ll be able to read and reply to messages, filter them by status, and search for specific keywords. At this time it is only possible to send direct messages between backers and creators, and not from one backer to another.
Why is funding all-or-nothing?
We established the all-or-nothing model when we launched in 2009 as a measure to protect creators, and to minimize risk for everyone. By not releasing funds unless a project meets its goal, this ensures that creators have enough money to do what they promised and they’re not expected to complete a project without the funds necessary to do so. This also assures backers that they’re only funding creative ideas that are set to succeed.
Why do people back projects?
People back projects for a number of reasons. They may be rallying around a friend’s project, or supporting a new effort from someone they’ve long admired. They might be inspired by a new idea, or simply motivated by a project’s reward.
What are the fees?
We use this model because we believe in paying artists as much as possible. We’re a tool for going around traditional gatekeepers like agents, dealers, distributors, fiscal sponsors, record labels, and publishers, and we accordingly take a much lower cut than they do.
