Does anyone have tips on setting up a successful crowdfunding campaigns?

Some quick thoughts:

• It goes best when you have already built a list or network
• Personal connections, getting your friends and family to donate and spread the word, helps a lot
• Plan how you will keep promoting the crowdfunding campaign over the time it runs eg letting ppl know when initial goals have been met and stretch goals announced, stories from ppl who have donated and why they did etc
• Be clear about what the funds will be used for and have a compelling values-based story around that
• If you offer rewards make sure they aren't too onerous or expensive to provide - most people will donate to support your cause, not for the perks

For more:

• How to Get Started With Crowdfunding has a number of tips.
• Developing Sustainable Online Fundraising shares insights from 3 Australian campaigning organisations.
• Depending which crowdfunding platform you go with they will have their own guides. I find the Chuffed ones helpful.

Good luck!

Holly Hammond

Commons Social Change Library

Marty Kearns suggested this as a quick summary of best practices.