Best Crowdfunding Platforms for New Businesses

In this blog, we’ll explore the best crowdfunding platforms for new businesses, how they work, and what makes each one unique.

1. Kickstarter

? Best for: Creative projects, tech gadgets, consumer products

Kickstarter is one of the most well-known crowdfunding platforms in the world. It’s reward-based, which means backers receive something (like a product or experience) in return for their contribution.

Key features:

All-or-nothing model (you only get funds if you reach your goal)
Massive user base and visibility
Great for early-stage product launches

Pros:

Excellent for pre-selling your product
Builds a community of supporters
High potential for viral exposure

Cons:

Highly competitive
Strict guidelines for project approval

? Website: kickstarter.com

2. Indiegogo

? Best for: Tech, innovation, social causes, and global projects

Indiegogo offers more flexibility than Kickstarter. It allows both reward-based and donation-based campaigns and has two types of funding: fixed (goal must be met) or flexible (keep funds raised even if the goal isn’t reached).

Key features:

International campaigns allowed
Supports both products and nonprofit ideas
InDemand feature lets you keep selling after the campaign ends

Pros:

Flexible funding options
Easier approval than Kickstarter
User-friendly tools for promotion

Cons:

Less brand recognition than Kickstarter
Service fees apply

? Website: indiegogo.com

3. GoFundMe

? Best for: Personal, social, or community-driven causes

GoFundMe is donation-based and is often used for personal needs, community projects, or mission-driven startups. You don’t offer rewards—people contribute out of support or belief in your cause.

Key features:

No fundraising goal requirement
Funds are released as they’re received
Easy to set up and share

Pros:

Great for community support or local business launches
No deadlines or pressure
Ideal for non-product-based ventures

Cons:

Not ideal for commercial products
Limited marketing tools for business startups

? Website: gofundme.com

4. SeedInvest

? Best for: High-growth startups seeking equity funding

SeedInvest is an equity crowdfunding platform. Instead of offering rewards, you give investors a share in your company.

Key features:

Investor-focused platform
Rigorous vetting process (only about 1% of startups are accepted)
Ideal for startups planning to scale fast

Pros:

Access to serious investors
Raise large amounts of capital
Adds credibility to your business

Cons:

Competitive application process
Must be ready to give up equity

? Website: seedinvest.com

5. StartEngine

? Best for: Startups looking for both funding and exposure

StartEngine is another equity crowdfunding platform that lets everyday people invest in early-stage companies.

Key features:

SEC-regulated equity funding
Large network of individual investors
Option to offer perks or rewards alongside shares

Pros:

Strong investor community
Raise up to $5 million in funding
Offers support with legal paperwork and marketing

Cons:

Costs for compliance and promotion
Longer approval process

? Website: startengine.com

6. Fundable

? Best for: Startups choosing between reward or equity crowdfunding

Fundable allows you to choose between reward-based and equity-based crowdfunding depending on your goals.

Key features:

Business-focused platform
Personalized support and coaching
Option to switch funding models

Pros:

Flexibility for business types
Good for both product and service-based startups
Includes tools to build your campaign

Cons:

Monthly subscription fee
Lower traffic compared to bigger platforms

? Website: fundable.com

7. Patreon

? Best for: Content creators, artists, podcasters, and creatives

While not traditional crowdfunding, Patreon allows creators to build recurring income by offering exclusive content or benefits to subscribers.

Key features:

Membership-based model
Monthly or per-creation payments
Direct connection with fans or supporters

Pros:

Steady income stream
Great for creative entrepreneurs
Easy to set up

Cons:

Takes time to grow a paying audience
Works best for content, not products

? Website: patreon.com

Final Thoughts

Crowdfunding is a powerful way to validate your idea, raise funds, and build a loyal audience—all before launching your product or service. The right platform depends on your business type, funding goal, and what you're offering in return.