KickstarterForum.org

(I guess this could apply to any other crowdfunding site)

I'm new here, and a bit confused as to whether or not I could ever reasonably expect crowdfunding to help with my project(s). As another poster here (Red_dragon87 I think) noticed, there are a lot of projects on Kickstarter that seem to be very, very polished.

I don't even have the funds yet to put together a prototype.

I had thought that going to Kickstarter would be a good way to deal with that problem. Now I'm beginning to think that I may have been mistaken. This isn't necessarily a bad thing, mind you, as it keeps empty-pocketed dreamers off the project lists. "Ideation" is easy, but execution is another thing entirely. For me, a working prototype of the system I intend to develop as a part of my first project could run upwards of $30k. I can't feasibly "DiY" the prototype since it would require output from Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) machines, a professional multi-socket server motherboard + 4 CPUs + RAM + PSU, and some other stuff that is very expensive per unit in small lots. I could go into more detail if anyone wishes to know more.

But, bottom line is, I'm not sure if I could finagle my way around this problem elegantly enough to get any kind of funding. I could do resin or plastic 3d-printed mock-ups of the key non-computing components, or possibly of the whole spiel, and that might cost hundreds instead of tens of thousands of dollars. But would anyone really want to fund an idea backed up by resin models? I could just as easily do the model in Sketchup and show people that for the same effect at a much lower (as in free) price. It still wouldn't have the "wow" factor of, I don't know . . . the arc plasma speaker?

This isn't necessarily a bad thing, mind you, as it keeps empty-pocketed dreamers off the project lists. "Ideation" is easy, but execution is another thing entirely.

Glad you are aware of this. The question is, if you couldn't create a prototype, how would you convince backers that you can pull the project off and are not just a dreamer? I don't think it's about being polished as much as it is showing that you can actually make the widget on a larger scale.

I definitely think a sketchup would be valuable. Just don't use photorealistic renderings.

"Projects must be clear about their state of development, and cannot be presented as preorders of finished products. Projects must show details (photos, videos, sketches) of their progress so far, along with a prototype demonstrating the product's current functionality. Projects must explain how the final design is likely to differ from the prototype, and include a production plan (i.e., how you're going to make it) and an estimated timeline.

No product simulations or photorealistic renderings

Technical drawings, CAD designs, sketches, and other parts of the design process are awesome and encouraged. Photorealistic renderings and simulations that could be mistaken for finished products or real events, however, are not allowed."

You could also consider using Indiegogo to gather funds that you can put towards the prototype.

Depending on your circumstances and what you're doing, getting enough funding together for a prototype or proof-of-concept can be difficult, if not impossible. I have learned the hard way that being an unproven developer can be the kiss of death to any funding request, no matter how good your presentation. But, to have a unit in hand that works . . . that's hard to deny.

And, really, it's my own darn fault that the prototype cost I'm looking at sits as high as it does (in that I've chosen to do something that involves expensive processes and components).

I honestly haven't looked at Indiegogo, but now that you mention it, maybe I should.

Hey!

You shouldn't be discouraged, I too used to think that only polished projects got funded but that's really not the case. The most important part is for you to prove to your backers that the project you're making is viable. Look at the plasma engine project that was on Kickstarter, I think it's a good example that even near impossible ideas can get funded! If you have any questions or want someone to look over your draft I'd be happy to help! Just message me via the ARC plasma speaker project page.

David,

I want to just parrot what Sal and Excelphysics have already said--don't feel that you need a full scale prototype to find funding!

I am a broken record, but the only thing I feel that I have discovered is True (perhaps one day a mere platitude) about Kickstarter and crowdfunding is this: people back creators they like, not products they want.

Many may disagree with me, but the above seems to be the one element that is a common thread of all funded projects. I feel that if you can express a deep well of passion and conviction, you will be funded.

I love Shark Tank. Several times someone has been so engaging, the Sharks said they really were investing in them--or, the particular product was not viable, but they almost wanted to invest in THEM because of their energy and passion.

I feel all creators need to find a way to shine and burn like a nova, in anyway they can think of (this is why a compelling video is so important) to allow that emotional transaction to happen across the void of the internet.

You can hit the ball out of the park and get tons of eyeballs on your campaign, but if a backer doesn't get the sense that you are living and breathing your dream. . .well, even a puppy that does your taxes might not ever get a pledge.

That's good feedback from both of you. And before I go on, let me say what many others have said: that plasma speaker project is the stuff of sci-fi awesomeness.

I do appreciate encouragement, especially that which is backed in frank honesty. So, maybe I will try a campaign on Kickstarter sans prototype. David, I'll be contacting you when I get the opportunity. There is still a lot of work to be done on my part before I could launch a campaign, but at least now I am closer to an answer to my question in the topic. Thanks!