How Kickstarter could help you launch your next creative project

As content creators, navigating an ever-changing online landscape is just one of many challenges we face. But there are platforms out there, such as Kickstarter, that can offer creators the resources and support they might need to launch their next (or first) big project.

Vlogger Beat recently connected via email with Kickstarter's Head of Content Creators, Brett Dashevsky, to discuss how Kickstarter is different from more well-known creator-focused platforms and how creators can take their creative efforts to the next level.

Vlogger Beat: What is Kickstarter offering creators that other, traditional monetization options aren't?

 Brett Dashevsky: Kickstarter isn’t just another monetization platform; we complement traditional monetization options. Content creators are inherently entrepreneurial, often expanding beyond social media to launch their own products, businesses and experiences. As a crowdfunding platform, Kickstarter offers these creators a platform where they can transform their existing social media audience into early supporters of their new ventures.

Traditional monetization options often require creators to endlessly create content in order to make money. Kickstarter, on the other hand, offers creators a way to focus on a specific project or idea that can be funded by a community that is invested in seeing that idea succeed.

There's a natural synergy between the audience support content creators have built on social media and Kickstarter’s community-driven crowdfunding model, and we're eager to show more creators how they can harness this synergy to successfully fund their projects.

VB: As the Head of Content Creators at Kickstarter, what do you think are some of the biggest roadblocks online creators are facing right now - and how are you helping to overcome these obstacles?

BD: Creators today face three main challenges:

1. Limited earning potential: Only about 4% of creators globally earn over $100,000 annually, with just 12% of full-time creators make more than $50,000 per year (). 
2. Time constraints: Many creators experience burnout within 4-5 years, making it hard to establish sustainable careers. 
3. Platform restrictions: Many creators feel trapped by platform formats and algorithms that demand constant content production..

Kickstarter allows creators to launch projects that support long-term growth. It gives them the chance to break free from constant content demands, enabling them to fund projects aligned with their vision. This creates new revenue streams but also potentially extends career longevity by offering creative freedom beyond their primary platforms.

Ultimately, Kickstarter provides unique opportunities for creators to break out of  traditional constraints and realize their full potential.

VB: What is the most important thing creators can learn from recent success stories, such as Hank Green's book project?

BD: Kickstarter empowers creators of all sizes to dream big and expand beyond their typical medium. Hank’s success on Kickstarter is achievable for creators at any level. Examples like Maurice Moves, a travel creator who launched "The Flight Cap," and Jack Howard, who funded his dream short film project, are testaments to how impactful Kickstarter can be for creators of all backgrounds.

Success isn't tied to follower count. Whether you have millions of followers or a small group of dedicated fans, what matters is the strength of your idea and the way you tell its story. Creators know how to engage an audience and build anticipation–skills that translate well to crowdfunding. It’s about using storytelling to create excitement and inviting your community to be part of bringing something special to life.

VB: What advice do you have for creators who want to launch a project on Kickstarter but aren't sure if they'll be successful?

BD: If you’re uncertain, my advice is simple: take the leap. Growth comes from stepping into new, sometimes uncomfortable territory, and you won’t know your potential until you try.

Kickstarter is here to support you every step of the way, with practical guidance, feedback, and help throughout the process. Here are some steps to boost your confidence and maximize success:

1. Research similar projects: Study successful campaigns in your niche to see what resonates with backers.
2. Build anticipation: Engage your audience before launch, as early support builds momentum.
3. Craft a compelling story: Clearly communicate your passion and the unique value of your project.
4. Set realistic goals: Work with our team to set an achievable funding target–you can always exceed it!
5. Design enticing rewards: We can help you create cost-effective rewards that excite backers.
6. Plan for outreach: Develop a communication strategy to spread the word about your campaign.

Above all, frame your project as an invitation to your audience. They want to support you and be part of bringing your vision to life. Even if your initial attempt falls short, some of Kickstarter’s most successful projects are actually relaunches, refined based on initial feedback. Kickstarter is more than a funding platform–it's a supportive community that celebrates creativity. So, take the step, launch the project, and let your ideas shine. Success might be closer than you think. 

Keep up with Vlogger Beat for more interviews, content creator news, and advice on how to transform your creative interests into successful projects.