Crowdfunding is becoming an increasingly popular way to gather funds for any number of projects. However, crowdfunding campaigns definitely take significant time and attention in order to be successful. Some of the most valuable time is spent during the final 24 hours of the campaign.
During this period, you will want to generate the last bit of support you possibly can and wrap things up neatly. There are many ways you can pull this off – here are some steps to take to end your campaign on a high note.
Send an update
The first thing to do during the final 24 hours of your campaign is to send out an update informing your followers that the campaign is drawing to a close. This will give them the opportunity to share the campaign one final time or make a contribution if they have yet to do so.
To update your followers, use any resource available. For example, update your Facebook page, Twitter and the crowdfunding site itself. Updates should be sent regularly throughout the campaign; your final update of the live campaign should go out about a day before the campaign ends.
Send a thank-you email
Next, send a thank-you email or update to those who have backed your project. Thank them for their contribution and request that they share your campaign a final time before it closes.
Throughout the duration of your campaign, you’ve likely been asking backers or contributors to provide feedback on your project. For example, if you are developing a new product, ask for your fans’ opinions on color, size and other details. This email provides another chance to interact with your followers by asking for their feedback again.
Do a social media countdown
You will want to set up a social media countdown to help people see how much time they have left to contribute. This will give your followers a sense of urgency about making a contribution or generating support from others. Simply schedule posts denoting 24, 12, 6 and 1 hour until the campaign closes – or do it at more frequent intervals during the final day if you’d prefer!
Share important information
Those who have contributed will want to know where they can find further information about the campaign. Add a button to the top of your campaign page that links to your website. Share where followers can learn about the results of the campaign as well as how the funds generated from it are being used. Not only does this give them peace of mind that the funds are being used appropriately, but it will encourage them to feel comfortable contributing to your future campaigns.
Plan what’s next
Finally, have a solid plan in place regarding how you will use the money after your campaign has ended. If your campaign is successful, you might think about turning to ecommerce. If it’s not, a second campaign may be necessary.
During the final 24 hours of your crowdfunding campaign, it’s important to be as visible and as active as possible. Be prepared to communicate with those who might have questions, and thank those who are getting the word out. This will aid in your success with future campaigns and will also help you wrap up your current campaign with a bang.
For more information on how to have a successful campaign, check out Art of the Kickstart’s podcast. We also have a newsletter with lots of helpful advice. Additionally, feel free to contact us directly – all questions are welcome!
