Saving UK High Streets with Crowdfunding

The UK high street is in trouble! Retail business from small independent traders to major blue chip retail outlets and departments stores have closed their doors, some even declared insolvent.  Changing shopping habits to online alternatives amplified by the recent Covid19 global pandemic has seen the high street's decline turning some city centres into veritable ghost towns. As we start to come out of the government restrictions made necessary by the pandemic UK high street shops are looking got help to rebuild and trade sustainably and the answer just might lie with crowdfunding. The 'Camden Future High Streets Crowdfund' initiative led by Camden London Borough Council in partnership with the crowdfunding platform Spacehive was launched to help fund projects aimed to revitalise Camden High Streets. The aim is to help projects meet their funding targets from a monetary pot of £360,000 set aside for worthy campaigns, and already two have been selected for this award. So can Crowdfunding save the retail high street?

Crowdfunding for The Suspended Coffee App

Who would have thought that you could perform a good deed for the day by simply ordering a cup of coffee? What started off in Naples, Italy has become a global goodwill initiative thanks to the advent of social media, with thousands of people ordering their coffee with one to be "suspended" for someone in greater need. Now organisers behind the movement have turned to the crowdfunding platform AppsFunder to raise the necessary funds that would enable the development of a Suspended Coffees mobile app.

Originating from Naples where it has been age old tradition, the principle of the suspended coffee is simple. When ordering a hot beverage a customer can also ask for a coffee to be suspended. Essentially it is an equivalent beverage, usually a coffee, that is "banked" and offered to those in need. Should someone who is homeless or has simply fallen on hard times ask for a suspended coffee, is any are available, they will be given to the recipient for no charge. From Naples the idea moved to Bulgaria where it was thought to have support from over 150 cafes. Through social media the idea grew exponentially mainly due to a Facebook page set up by 28 year old plumber from Cork, John Sweeney. The Suspended Coffee page has over 80,000 likes and businesses from all over the world have subscribed to the initiative proudly displaying their support using the leaflet available to download. It has also become the driving force behind raising awareness all over the world for both customers and businesses alike.

As the major chains such as Starbucks and Costa are currently looking into the possibility of implementing the scheme in their stores, the initiative is looking to encapsulate the suspended coffee experience for mobile devices. The aim is to create an app that will enable users to easily locate nearby coffee shops that subscribe to the scheme. Users will also be able to purchase and request suspended coffees online and leave comments. The sum of $8,000 is needed to design the user interface as well as develop and test the finished app, which is being sought through AppFunders. In exchange for their donation funders will principally be rewarded with a series of mentions and thank you's on the Suspended Coffees website and Facebook page. However, the greater the donation the warmer the gratitude.

Suspended Coffees has just under 80 days to raise the necessary funds and to date it has raised $1,025 of the target with support from 37 backers. Whilst overall there is still some way to reaching $8,000 the project is already half way to reaching the target of $2,000 needed for design of the interface alone. For more information about the project and to pledge your support visit the AppsFunder project page.

Image Credit; anthony pc

[Gazette Profile] FundTheGap Latest Platform to Offer Equity Based Crowdfunding for Small Business

Crowdfunding has always proven to be accessible and effective for one off creative entrepreneurial and altruistic projects. The rise of equity based crowdfunding, especially in the US thanks to the passing of the JOBS act, small businesses and startups can also benefit from crowdfunding. The latest platform to join the ranks of those providing equity based crowdfunding services is FundTheGap, a platform that offers crowdfunding resources and enabling better communication and management between project owners and investors.

FundTheGap was founded by Derek Uittenbroke, Christian Elmes, Martin Sherwood and Ken Ford who have garnered extensive experience in all aspects of finance, technology and fundraising. Between them the founders have amassed over 50 years of experience helping small business and startups secure a total of £500 million in much needed funding. FundTheGap looks to connect businesses with qualified investors and goes beyond conventional crowdfunding by enabling the investors to forge a strong relationship with the project owners and create a community built on collaboration. Amongst the ventures seeking funding are a Babraham-based Cell Guidance System in need of £200,000 for a 12.37% share. Other projects include a local authority initiative to increase the range of broadband internet in rural areas and a pub regeneration project.

Business and individuals to looking secure funding through FundTheGap must be incorporated in the UK and then submit to the the funding committee a detailed business plan for consideration. The business plan should include financial projections and supporting documentation. A meeting ,is then arranged between at least one director and the funding committee, in addition to some company checks being carried out.

Once the screening process is concluded and the committee is satisfied with the outcome, the entrepreneur will then receive help in creating the pitch, which must reach its funding target. Project owners can engage with potential investors directly, who in turn will be vetted by the platform founders to ensure they too are qualified and have the necessary funds to invest. Qualified investors can browse for suitable projects to support based on whatever criteria they choose such as sector interests and local geography.  They can also communicate with the entrepreneur throughout all stages of the funding, receiving updates and even offering feedback. FundTheGap also acts as a nominee service providing administrative support to investors and for the entrepreneurs a single shareholder. 

We have been watching the alternative funding space develop with interest. With other 50 years experience and having secured over £500m for small businesses throughout our careers, we are confident that FundTheGap will provide a complementary source of funds at a critical time for cash-starved UK smaller businesses. - Christian Elmes, Co-founder

Cash starved businesses and ventures could potentially raise £2 million through FundTheGap, which the founding members would co-fund from as little as £500 up to £50,000. Investors benefit as they would qualify for tax relief of up to 78% of their original investment under the UK's Enterprise Investment Scheme, and the Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme.  All in all the founders of FundTheGap have created a collaborative crowdfunding community protecting as well as benefiting entrepreneurs and investors alike, thus alleviating concerns of crowdfunding security. The platform stands apart as its founders clearly do not accept projects they would not be willing to support themselves, a position supported by their co-funding initiative. 

Image Credit; Ganderssen1

Help Write the Next Crowdfunding Book

Crowdfunding is taking hold in the UK rapidly with more organisations using it for commercial and charitable purposes, finding a lifeline where traditional forms of funding and investment are not available. Plans for a new book about crowdfunding have been announced by Modwenna Rees-Mogg, founder and CEO of Angel News, one of Europe's leading news service for the investment market. Research is currently underway and Modwenna is calling on anyone involved in crowdfunding to take part in a survey that will help shape the book.

Angel News was founded by Modwenna in 2003 initially as a hobby project. The idea came about after having identified a gap in the provision of investment news, specifically information about companies involved in funding rounds which left investors with little knowledge on the progress of their investments. Since then it has grown into a leading provider of information on over 1,800 rapidly growing businesses, as well as promoting investment opportunities to its network of angel investors and venture capitalists. Angel News also holds events every two months on hot topics surrounding the investment culture including exit strategies, as well as preparing the perfect pitch. 

The survey is aimed at those who are or have been involved in crowdfunding, specifically project owners, crowdfunding service providers or platforms, and investors who have donated to projects. To take part and help shape a potentially insightful and informative UK publication on crowdfunding, click on the following links;

• Fundraisers
• Crowdfunding platforms
• Investors/Donors

Early participants could be in with a chance of winning a free copy of the book with around 150 to be awarded, that is fifty copies to the first fifty people who take part in the surveys. The book is as yet untitled and currently undergoing research. It is however billed as being a book written by the crowd for the crowd.

Image Credit; Alex E Proimos

UK Charities Step Up For Crowdfunding Challenge

National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO) has launched a crowdfunding challenge inviting charities from across the UK to compete against one another in fundraising efforts. Launched in September, the Crowdfunding Challenge 2012 NCVO has pitted ten UK charities to better engage their communities and supporters as well as learn about how crowdfunding is revolutionising fundraising for the third sector here in the UK.

The challenge is operating in partnership with Buzzbnk, the London based crowdfunding platform that connects potential financiers with project owners for a variety of charitable and social projects. Other supporters of the challenge include; CAN Impact, an organisation that offers business support in social enterprise; Sho-net Systems provider of cloud based computer operations, and Anne Strachan of CrowdfundUK dedicated to providing information, resources and support on the use of crowdfunding within the third sector.  

So many organisations are looking to change how they raise money, especially those who have been reliant on grants. This challenge is a great way to generate learning and resources for charities while having lots of fun and raising money for some great causes. - Ros Jenkins, NCVO

Participating charities use the Buzzbnk platform to raise money through crowdfunding, and have until November to reach their funding targets. The venture is aimed at engaging communities as well learning and experimenting with the crowdfunding process. Projects featured in the challenge include;

• Latch (Leeds) -  using unemployed volunteers the project hopes to raise funds to help refurbish an empty house to create a home for a homeless family.
• Gateshead Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) - one of many organisations hit by austerity measures, the CAB hope to raise funds for a self-help touch screen console enabling full access to information and resources to help people tackle their problems.
• Aston Mansfield (Newham, London) - a sleep over project for children from deprived areas, to help build their social and emotional developments whilst giving parents some respite. 

Throughout the challenge,  NCVO will be monitoring the participants' progress bringing them together to share their knowledge at the organisation's Sustainable Funding conference to be held in November. The charity that displays the most learning and sharing during the challenge will be awarded £1,000 by CAN Impact. Click here for more information and a full list of the participating charities.

Image Credit; liewcf 

Crowdfunding Bristol's Community Bike Cafe

Whether it be as a means of transport or to keep physically fit, cycling is enjoying something of a renaissance in the UK. This revived interest in pedal power has particularly taken hold in Bristol making it the first cycling city, which has inspired an idea for a community cafe for cyclists. The project, Roll For The Soul, aims to provide a cafe and social hub for cyclists, not only serving quality refreshments but acting as a one stop resource centre to promote and support cycling in the city. The project has turned to crowdfunding to help raise some of the necessary funds, through the UK based platform Crowdfunder.

Roll For The Soul (RFTS) is the idea of Rob Wall, a former lecturer in transport psychology (for which  he also has a PhD) and project manager for Sustrans, the UK's leading charity for promoting alternative day to day travel which includes cycling, which due to the rise in fuel costs as well as concerns for the environment is becoming increasingly popular. As well as financial and environmental concerns, the recent surge in cycling has in part been driven by a need to become physically fit inspired by success of British cyclists in pro-racing events such as the Tour de France and the London 2012 Olympics. 

As well as a cafe or resting stop for weary cyclists, serving quality Fair Trade refreshments, RFTS main aim is to support and promote cycling in Bristol, by providing a plethora of resources which include, repairs service, workshop tutorials and skill sharing as well as limited sale of refurbished bicycles and accessories. The hub will also welcome non cyclists in an effort to promote cycling as fun, healthy, and inexpensive, answering questions and offering support where need. It will essentially be a place cyclists can call their own, and completely non-profit orientated with any surplus revenue going towards promoting cycling in the city working with various organisations.

The project needs £90,000 to cover working capital as well as year one operational costs, of which only £12,000 will be sought through crowdfunding to help pay for kitchen equipment, seating, and cash registers. The project features on the platform Crowdfunder, based in Exeter. Those who donate will receive an array of rewards which include an assortment of RFTS merchandise such as postcards, pin buttons, T-shirts and exclusive prints, as well as an invitation to the opening party with food and drink provided.For those who donate £300 or more, a life time membership offering 10% discount along with a promise to be treated like royalty. The campaign has just under 40 days to raise the necessary funds and to date has received £5,500 in donations. 

For more information and to make a donation click here to visit the project's Crowdfunder page.

Image Credit; tejvanphotos

Bigger and Badder; A Crowdfunding Success Story

The advent of crowdfunding has offered a financial lifeline to many industries during this turbulent economic crisis. In particular, at a time when the major Hollywood studios are geared towards mainly remakes and sequels, independent film making has also received a helping hand from crowdfunding. Thanks to a successful campaign, the creative force behind British horror film Bigger and Badder are close to seeing their dream project become a reality. 

Bigger and Badder (previously featured on the Gazette) is the brainchild of writer and director Richard Wantuch. The film tells the story of Pete, a package boy under the employ of the nefarious Trevor Deacon. When his first delivery goes disastrously array Pete has to answer to his boss and soon learns that there is more to him than meets the eye. Pete must convince his boss as to the events of that night or learn just how big and bad Trevor can be. The film is essentially billed as Brighton Rock meets The Howling blending the best of British gangster movies with a good dash of Gothic horror. 

When producers Paul Banner and Laura Carter joined the project it was already in the early stages of development. The crew were made up largely of freelancers and volunteers happily working for free. However there was the still the issue regarding the costs of the special effects and make up. Richard Wantuch proposed the idea of using crowdfunding to help with those costs to the producers who readily agreed. After extensive research into the various platforms available, Exeter based Crowdfunder was chosen. Paul Banner explains;

We felt Crowdfunder was the right platform to raise our required funds. Although seemingly lower key than Kickstarter, IndieGoGo etc. its ease of use and user support made it the logical choice.

The campaign was launched on Crowdfunder at the beginning of December with the goal of raising £500 within thirty days. Rewards that were offered in exchange for a donation included copies of the film (DVD & Blu-Ray), limited edition merchandise, acknowledgement in the credits, and credit as an Associate Producer credit. For a one off donation of £250 as well as the rewards, a one off original cast of "Wilbur" the film's lynconthropic star was offered. After a tireless promotion drive via the Crowdfunder platform it proved a successful campaign with £525 raised in total, more than sufficient to meet the costs. 

I was confident we had a product people would want to invest in, we had the resources and the contacts in place to keep our investors rewards from breaking the bank and most importantly I felt that if we worked hard enough on our profile, pitch and promotion we could raise the funds to bring the film to life. 

The sum raised might seem meagre even for a short film however the project is very much a labour of love for Wantuch and his crew of volunteers. Producer Paul Banner brought his experience of working on projects with virtually a zero budget to the fold keeping location costs at bay taking advantage of some of Birmingham's more grimy areas. The city itself is awash with talented individuals who were willing to volunteer their skills for the experience of working on a filming project. In addition to skills, props and equipment were loaned and donated. Keeping the project within its tight budget was vital for the team as a sign of respect to the crowdfunders and it was felt that to seek further funding would undermine that respect. 




Whilst other projects are either still in search of further funds due to unexpected costs or were unsuccessful, it seems like the team behind Bigger and Badder were able to keep within the parameters of their pitch. For the team crowdfunding proved to be an invaluable experience and has done more than just provide key finances to make the project possible.

It democratises the whole process with the added bonus of creating an audience before you've even rolled the cameras.

Bigger and Badder is currently in the final stages of post production. Once the film is finished and screened before the cast and crew, priority will be given to distributing the rewards to the donors. The aim is to then arrange for screenings at various film festivals whether they be international events or based in the UK. There are also plans to find a suitable platform for on line distribution and exhibition.  


Acknowledgements; Thanks to producer Paul Banner for his help and insight.

Image Credits; Plaural Films All Rights Reserved

Crowdfunding Helps with Community Affected by Aurora Shootings

After  hearing reports of the shootings at a cinema in Aurora Colorado, two local entrepreneurs set up a crowdfunding campaign for a relief fund. Roger Toennis and Alex Montoya approached chose the platform START.ac to help raise funds to help victims' families and survivors recover from a devastating attack that shocked a nation and the world. 

On Friday 20th July 2012 a gunman walked into Century Cinema in Aurora Colorado, during a screening of The Dark Knight Rises. The gunman opened fire killing 12 people and leaving 50 others seriously injured. Since then police arrested 24 year old James Holmes and has appeared in court accused of the shootings. As the authorities begin to build their case against Holmes and other begin the debate on revising gun control legislation, those affected try to come terms with aftermath. For Toennis and Montoya the crowdfunding campaign is one close to home since they are both residents with Montoya having been raise not far from the cinema where the shootings occurred. 

The Aurora Relief Fund aims to raise $20,000 within 60 days. The funds will be used to help with the cost of medical and travel expenses for survivors, as well as the cost of of building memorials. With the exception of processing fees, all funds raised will go to the community affected and START.ac will not be taking their usual percentage. 

"I am happy to help raise money for such a good cause. I hope that this effort helps the injured, and the families of those who were taken. Our team members were some of the project's first supporters." - Rod Turner, Co-founder and CEO START.ac

START.ac was launched in May 2012 with the goal of changing the face of crowdfunding by blending commercial projects with altruistic campaigns. The Aurora Relief Fund is part of the revolutionary changes START.ac looked to bring about. For more information and make a donation click here to visit the Aurora Relief Fund campaign page.

Image Credits; Beverly & Pack

Latest FundaGeek Portal Focuses on The Community

FundaGeek, the technology and scientific specialist crowdfunding platform has launched its latest portal this time helping fund community projects. The Community Support Funding Portal is aimed at helping projects that normally rely on government funding schemes securing much needed funding. Whether it be environmental programs, construction, or leisure and education, crowdfunding can serve as a viable alternative to government funding as well as a more effective means to generate much needed awareness.

The portal is open to a variety of community projects from whole communities, special groups and even individuals. Libraries and museums can use the portal as well as benevolent funds to help disaster victims and protest groups. The portal works like any other crowdfunding model with a call for funding being posted, with a funding target, offering rewards in exchange for donations. Like other portals within the FundaGeek  platform supporting non-profit altruistic projects, the Community Support Portal does not employ the all or nothing model, allowing projects to keep any funds raised at the end of the campaign. 

At a time when austerity measures are being imposed by local and national governments schools, colleges, educational resources and support organisations struggle to keep vital services afloat. FundaGeek's Community Support Portal offers another lifeline for to prosperity. For more information and to submit click here to visit the portal. 

Image Credits; Parker Yo

[Gazette Profile] New Platform Paves Way for Jewish-Centric Crowdfunded Projects

Whilst two platforms already operate to provide crowdfunding services for Jewish projects, a recently launched site, Jewcer has already helped raise significant sums taking over the mantle of helping Jewish projects find a voice and financial support through the power of the crowd.

Jewcer was founded by five friends Ziv Ben Tzour, Moriya Blumenfeld,  Amir Give'on, Naomi Leight, and Shira Shimoni, having identified a gap in Jewish-centric crowdfunding when similar platforms appeared to be dormant. After pooling their own money together to fund the site, Jewcer was launched in March 2012. The idea behind the platform was inspired at an event hosted by BINA, the young professional division of the Israeli Leadership Council aimed to help better connect local Jewish-Americans and Israelis with Israeli focused foster programs. The Jewcer team believe Jewish crowdfunding can take connectivity a step further by enabling Jewish and Israeli communities to get their peers more involved and to make donations to vital projects through crowdfunding.

Any project with a strong Jewish connection can be submitted for consideration to be posted on Jewcer for funding. Although the founders intended to target a US based young cosmopolitan market, Jewcer will accept any Jewish project from around the world with work under way to better facilitate international transactions. The platform operates the traditional all or nothing model which aims to motivate project owners to work harder in convincing the crowd their project is worthy of funding. 

"Our personal mission with Jewcer is to change the way projects get funded in the Jewish community and in Israel — basically connecting people to projects, connecting people to people.”  - Naomi Leight, Co-founder Jewcer

Since launching, Jewcer has already helped various projects reach and even exceed their funding target, raising overall the sum of nearly $40,000 from over 500 donors. Projects that will come to fruition thanks to crowdfunding include a film entitled The Hummus Wars, a comedy tour that will raise money for charity whilst helping to promote a more positive image of Israel, a program that aims to combine biblical readings with Yoga exercises, and a Jewish brew pub and performance venue. One project that is gaining prominence is the Israeli Ambassador Program aimed at helping teenagers to become more knowledgeable about Israel and go on to act as ambassadors in the positive promotion of Israel focusing on US/Israeli relations. The project has already been funded with 22 days remaining. 

For more information click here to visit the Jewcer platform.

Image Credits; Jewcer (Copyright; All Rights Reserved)

FundaGeek Launch Scientific Research & Development Portal

FundaGeek, the crowdfunding platform specialising in helping technological innovations and scientific research obtain funding, has launched a new portal aimed at helping scientific research and development projects. The portal will provide vital guidance and resources for scientific projects looking to crowdfunding as an alternative source to traditional methods. 

Funding for scientific research and development projects is traditionally sought by way of government grants or discretionary grants from wealthy philanthropists. Since there are only limited numbers of grants available at any one time, competition for such funding is fierce and once awarded can betime consuming. FundaGeek's newest portal, Crowdfunding for Scientific Research, provides a means of getting a project off the ground until such time as further funding can be sought. The portal is open to scientists and educators at all levels including undergraduates and graduate students from universities and research institutions.

We are very excited about the launch of our new research portal as one of our early goals for our crowdfunding platform consistently has been to help science and basic research. We are very committed to the global science community. - Daniel D. Gutierrez, CEO FundaGeek

Whether the project focuses on physical & life sciences, engineering, social sciences or health and education, any such project can seek funding through the portal. Project owners are given resources and help to launch and run a successful crowdfunding campaign. These include a special FAQ section with various pointers and tips, a blog for researchers to provide regular updates, and comprehensive submission guidelines. In addition, two projects will be selected from the site's catalogue that will feature on the portal based on their compelling nature and success with the crowdfunding model.

Unlike commercial projects, those submitted through the portal do not follow the all or nothing crowdfunding model therefore the project does not need to reach a funding target. The portal refines the focus of FundaGeek's dedication to helping scientific research projects. Crowdfunding cannot replace the grant system but can supplement the funding needed to get the project started, making crowdfunding ideal for new classes of projects such as outreach programmes that are often subject to delays.

Image Credits; RDECOM

[Gazette Profile] Changing the Crowdfunding Model with START.ac

Crowdfunding continues to grow exponentially with more platforms offering resources and support, as well as governments passing laws to make it more accessible. Both private sector businesses and third sector organisations are benefiting from the support of the crowd. A new platform, START.ac launched on 15th May 2012, aims to change the current crowdfunding model that will  blend commercial projects with altruistic goals. 

START.ac was founded by Rod Turner, a seasoned entrepreneur who played a key role in the formation of highly successful start-ups including software developers Symantec (brainchild of Norton Antivirus software) and the popular search engine AskJeeves. Over the last year or so Rod has called upon his extensive knowledge to develop a new crowdfunding platform aimed at helping start-up businesses and technological ventures. The platform offers an assortment of unique features which include;

• The Inside Track TM enables funders to engage with projects they support
• CrowdAudition TM encourages the START.ac TM community to get involved offering feedback on projects up for submission as well as their selection
• START.ac TM offers a mentoring programme for project owners offering guidance and support from seasoned entrepreneurs and market leaders
• CrowdAccelerator TM benefits funded projects with continued dedicated involvement from the mentors
• STARTBusinessRewards TM offers rewards to project supporters based on company milestones.

The site's biggest addition however is the altruistic model aimed at supporting worthy causes. Project drivers looking for funding are generally charged 5% of their funding target, operating on the all or nothing model, for commercial projects but no charge will be made for non-profit ventures. Users can also opt to pay 6% of the funds raised of which 1% will be placed in the Pay it Forward Fund, with 25% of the total funds being allocated to the Pay it Forward Foundation and 75% to charities as voted by members. In the event of a large scale disaster such as a tsunami or earthquake special projects can be set up free of charge to raise funds for any foundations best suited to helping with relief efforts. 

The VC model is outdated. Investments are highly concentrated in Silicon Valley and similar VC clubs at the expense of 90% of the start-up opportunity across the US and around the world. In addition, current crowdfunding platforms are too narrowly focused in scope and geography. START.ac will democratise the industry in a way that is not yet being addressed. - Rod Turner, Co-founder & CEO START.ac 

START.ac, with its evolutionary model looks set to change the future of crowdfunding. Prior to launch the site's Facebook page had already received over 10,000 followers and word quickly spread over other social media sites including LinkedIn, Google + and Twitter. The future for crowdfunding lies in START.ac's goal to make virtualized funds, advice and resources available to support up and coming entrepreneurs to realise their maximum potential. This goal to aide entrepreneurs at a time when the world's economies are still teetering on the blink is equal to START.ac's altruistic commitment to effectively help those less fortunate. 

New Crowdfunding Platform For Aspiring Authors

For aspiring writers with great ideas but frustrated by the traditional methods of the publishing industry, crowdfunding continues to offer a lifeline to publishing utopia. Joining the ranks of sites like Unbound and Emphas.is is Authrs.com  a new crowdfunding platform dedicated to helping aspiring authors on  the path to publication. The new platform promises to focus purely on crowdfunding the works of authors and writers with features to rival other platforms.

Authr.com was founded in 2011 by Erik Bowman, serial entrepreneur, consultant and author. With over 20 years experience of business startups, Erik brings his knowledge and skills of various aspects of multimedia, finance, and technology to this latest venture. Based in Redondo Beach California, Authr.com was established by Eric to help break the funding barriers that prevent aspiring authors from getting their works published. Whilst many authors have used crowdfunding to take them up to publishing glory, Authr.com differs from other platforms by promising to support the authors beyond fundraising and into pre-order and sales as their books move closer to publication.

"I’ve come across so many clients and friends who have always wanted to achieve their dream of writing a book one day. The biggest obstacle they seem to run into is funding." - Erik Bowman, Founder Authr.com

In addition to pre and post funding support, Authr.com differs from other platforms by refusing to take any percentage of funds raised. Users, instead pay a monthly fee and can test their first use of the service for free. The platform also enables authors to promote their projects through social media to encourage support and generate sales, as well as a QR codes service to add bonus interactive features to the authors' publications. 

Authr.com is all about supporting authors so those with projects in need of funding who have publishers already signed up can still use the service. The platform also features a dedicated publisher's co-branded author's page through which authors can be referred, and invites ghost writers, publishing and marketing professions to become the site's business partners.  

Image Credits; Joe Ross 

Crowdfunding Initiative for Developing World Entrepreneurs

The ability of crowdfunding to help fund commercial and charitable projects is benefiting many organisations and individuals throughout the UK, US as well as Europe and Asia. Now entrepreneurs in the developing world looking to trade their way out of poverty have been tapping  into the power of crowdfunding thanks to Lendwithcare.org, a UK based microfinance initiative. Along with the introduction of a new group lending feature, Lendwithcare is looking to revolutionise the face of digital charitable philanthropy and donations in the UK.

Lendwithcare.org is the first microfinance platform to be launched by a development agency, one of the leading aid agencies CARE international. With support from the Co-operative as part of its Global Poverty Project programme, the platform has attracted 5000 active lenders supporting projects mainly in food production, farming, clothing, retail and even photography in countries such as Benin, Togo, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Cambodia, the Philippines and more recently Ecuador. Lendwithcare operates like any other crowdfunding or microfinance initiative, with visitors to the site searching from the lists of projects in need of funding and selecting one they would like to support. Once a project is chosen the investor can loan from as little as £15 or up to the full specified limit. 

"I believe in helping others to help themselves. A small amount to me makes a huge difference to someone else. Better still, the money you invest, once returned can be recycled into new funding for other projects" - Nicol Caplin, Lender

Lenders can track the progress of the entrepreneurs they have supported to see how their money is helping the fledgling enterprise. The loan is then repaid in accordance with an agreed schedule, and credited to the lenders' account who can then do any one of the following; withdraw the money, donate it to support the efforts of CARE international, or support another enterprise. Thousands of loans have been made to entrepreneurs through the platform helping people like Yeurn Ouerm. Rice grower and mother of five Yeurn lost her paddy fields in the devastating floods that hit Cambodia last year. Lendwithcare highlighted her plight through Facebook and Twitter and within a few minutes nearly £200 was loaned helping her purchase fresh seeds to replenish and sustain her crops through the year.

Already Lendwithcare helps individuals make a difference to the lives of those in need. Now the initiative has launched a "group lending feature" enabling lenders to team up and invest in projects as a group. The loans can be attributed to the group collective helping to make an even bigger impact. Groups currently supporting developing world entrepreneurs include co-operatives, retailers,  families, churches and even whole countries. Since launching eighteen months ago Lendwithcare.org has raised £700,000 in loan capital and is hoping to leverage £1.5 million of loans by the end of the year. 

Beta Testing for UK Crowdfunding Platform Completed

Only four months since it was launched and already Bloom VC has much to celebrate. Today the Scottish based crowdfunding enterprise announced that beta testing for the platform has concluded, with plans to grow and enhance the platform for project owners and monetary donors alike. 

Bloom VC (venture catalyst) was founded by portfolio entrepreneur Amanda Boyle and Journalist & entrepreneur Michelle Rodger, with a goal to pool their vast knowledge to help budding entrepreneurs, businesses, and third sector groups effectively use crowdfunding to raise the necessary money for their projects or enterprise.The platform was designed and build by the award team at Everyone, and hosted by Bloom VC's technology partners VPS.NET.  

Prior to launching Bloom VC had already established itself as a crowdfunding leader by establishing a crowdfunding clinic at last year's New Start Scotland Exhibition. The clinic was open to business of all sizes and markets, helping them to better understand how crowdfunding could help them grow during these tough economic times. The beta testing has proven invaluable in helping Bloom VC to grow into a workable crowdfunding platform.

“We’ve had great input from our users and it’s helped us to create a platform that’s intuitive to navigate and well-integrated with the social networks essential to help spread the word and ask for support for projects" - Amanda Boyle Co-founder and CEO Bloom VC

Completing the beta testing is a remarkable achievement for the founders of Bloom VC which can be added to other landmark achievements. Recently Bloom VC helped Scottish student Kevin Pickering raise much needed funds for his short crime film Wake Up Call. The campaign was successful as not only did it reach its target within four days but went on to raise 46% more by the 30 day deadline. Bloom VC  currently has over thirty projects in the pipeline which include games, apps, and film projects. Visit the website for more information. 

Image Credits; Steven De Polo

Crowdfunding to Help Women Build Confidence After Cancer

Women who have suffered from breast cancer know all too well the damage it inflicts on the heart and mind as well as the body. Alarming statistics indicate that 37% of women recovering from cancer are more likely to commit suicide, due to the onset of anxiety and depression following treatment. Former cancer patient, Gabby Mottershead wants to offer women who are fighting cancer to help rebuild their lives, with her program Confidence After Cancer. Through the UK platform Crowdfunder, Gabby is looking to raise funds to offer free Reiki healing and confidence building course for women in Manchester recovering from cancer.

Mother of two from Manchester Gabby, was diagnosed in 2008 with a rare and aggressive form of breast cancer. After a series of treatments including a mastectomy, and chemotherapy, Gabby's self esteem took a plunge feeling low, almost as if she had lost the person she used to be. Soon after her treatment Gabby's name was nominated for a campaign organised by PR executive, columnist, and cancer survivor Caroline Monk for a makeover that not only transformed her look but gave her confidence a huge boost. Inspired by her experience, which was featured in The Daily Mail, Gabby researched various treatments designed to aide relaxation and encourage greater confidence, including Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) and Reiki, qualifying as a practitioner in both fields.

Confidence After Cancer has only one goal; to help women suffering from cancer rebuild their lives and restore their confidence to look forward to the prospect of a brighter future. Gabby's Crowdfunder campaign looks to provide coaching and support to achieve this goal, through various confidence building courses as well as Reiki healing. The sum of £500 is needed to pay for rental of therapy rooms as well as printed and digital material only, as the support being provided is free. To date the project has secured 10% of the funding target with 35 days left till the campaign deadline. In return for a monetary pledge investors will receive an assortment of rewards should the project reach its funding target, including;

• free e-books on confidence building
• distance healing and prayers
• Vouchers for Forever Living products with a value from £20 to £50
• For those investing £100 or more, links to their website to be featured on the new Confidence After Cancer website (currently under construction).

For more information about Confidence After Cancer and how to invest visit the project's Crowdfunder campaign page.

Image Credit; SuperStar

Devon Film Maker Crowdfunding Latest Project

Despite the UK government calling for British filmmakers to produce Hollywood-esque commercial films it seems independent filmmakers are ignoring the call. More and more independent films are hoping crowdfunding will see their stories come to life. The latest is a short film from Devon based film maker Tony Webber, founder of Rockfall Films who is looking to raise funds through the crowdfunding platform IndieGoGo.

Tom is the story of a thirty-something male whose girlfriend is about to meet his family for the first time. The film reflects on how the couple first met leading up to the inevitable meeting but with an unexpected conclusion. It is an emotional drama focussing on loss and loneliness which Tony believes will resonate with the audience.

Funds raised will be used to cover costs for the production and Tony is looking to raise £5,500. These include accomodation and costs, hiring of cast and crew, equipment hire and post production.

I'd also like to engage the services of a casting director and go after a cast of named actors. Raising the money would hekp me do this. - Tony Webber

The project, looking to raise funds through IndieGoGo, has just under a month to reach its funding target. In exchange for a donation investors will be rewarded with acknowledgements and thanks, DVD and Blu Ray copies of the film, limited edition merchandise, and invitations to exclusive screenings. The rewards depend on the amount pledged and for higher value investments Associate/Executive producer credits will be awarded. To support this project click here to visit the IndieGoGo funding page.

Image Credits; Fiverlocker

UK Steampunk Movie Looks For Crowdfunding Support - UPDATE!!!

Since the 19th December 2011 when the Gazette posted this story, the project did not reach it's funding target. However undeterred from this setback the team at Seraphim Pictures have turned to IndieGoGo in the hopes of raising the necessary to funds to see their dream project become a reality. Good luck from the Gazette.

The genre of steampunk science fiction has enjoyed a little resurgence this past year with the 3D reboot of Alexander Dumas' Three Musketeers, and Martin Scorsese's latest feature Hugo, based on the book by Brian Selznick. A new independent film, Nova Initia looks set to help with the steampunk revival set within a dystopia world, whilst challenging the current stable of big budget Hollywood remakes and sequels. The makers of the film are looking to raise part of the budget through the crowdfunding. 

Nova Initia is set in a desolate world of crumbled cities and split factions trying to make sense of their scorched earth. Amidst the desolation, a young woman is on the run but she does not know why or nor have any clue as to her identity, carrying a satchel that cannot be lost nor fall into the hands of her pursuers. Cardiff writer/director Dale Jordan Johnson, along with producers James Morgan and Daniel Lyddon of the Welsh film production company Seraphim Pictures, hope to present steampunk to mainstream audiences with original stories, fresh characters and whole new worlds to explore. To help bring the world of steampunk to life, the services of The Little Steampunk Shop will be employed, developing props for the film, which will also feature as rewards for donations.

The project needs $10,000 to help cover location costs, insurance premiums, set design & construction as well as wardrobe and catering. In exchange for a monetary pledge, donors can expect various rewards including, acknowledgements & credits, various official merchandise, set visits and premier invitations, as well as DVD and BLU-RAY copies of the film. So if you want to support this steampunk adventure then visit the project's funding page. 

Image Credit Used with kind permission of Seraphim Pictures Copyright 2011 
- All Rights Reserved.  

Crowdfunding The Occupied Times

As the global Occupy movement continues to grow, encouraging debate, calling for change, as well as angering the establishment, keeping track of relevant news and opinions has daunting. The Occupied Times, a free newspaper that publishes news and information regarding the movement, has taken up the mantle for Occupy London, with the first six issues proving to very popular. The paper is now turning to UK crowdfunding platform 0sponsume, to fund further issues whilst finding a way to make the publication more sustainable.

The Occupied Times, whilst not the official voice of the movement, does provide a platform for those within the movement to relay news and information, as well as offering entertaining and insightful views. The paper's mission is principally to provide individuals involved in the movement and passing members of the public with the latest updates as well as provoke debate over the issues spurring the movement. It was originally funded from donations made to the sustain the Occupy movement, with the first issue costing £200 to produce and subsequent five issues at £350 each. 

In order to become sustainable, the publication needs more funding which is proving to be a drain on the movement's limited purse. The goal is to raise £2,000 to fund a further four issues of the Occupied Times, and work to increase its size and distribution to 16 pages twice monthly. Any remaining funds will be donated to the Occupy movement. In return for supporting the project, investors will receive an assortment of rewards including thank yous & acknowledgements, copies of the paper, and an original copy of the historic first edition (currently on  display at the Museum of London). 

To date the project has secured over 70% of the target, with just over a week remaining. Whilst the project will accept donations from all over the world, it will only be able to post rewards to UK investors. The Occupy movement continues to grow becoming a thorn in the side of both financial giants and political leaders alike. With your help, the Occupied Times could play an integral role of maintain the flow of news and insights on the issues of the movement. To find pledge your support, and generally learn more about the the Occupied Times (even download a copy) visit the project's sponsume funding page.

Image Credit; The Occupied Times

UK Crowdfunding Workshop to be Held February 2012

There is no denying that crowdsourcing in general, in particular crowdfunding, is becoming widespread in the UK. At a time when, to quote Simply Red, money is too tight to mention, crowdfunding provides access to funding that might previously been sought from more wealthy investors. Yet for many there are still questions and uncertainties surround crowdfunding, question which will be addressed at an upcoming crowdfunding workshop.

The event "Crowdfunding for building community, raising finance or market testing ideas" has been organised by Anne Strachan to provide extensive insight and information about crowdfunding. Anne has over 20 years experience working in the third sector, as well as extensive knowledge and success as a fundraiser. Through her blog Crowdfund UK, Anne provides an easy to follow guide to finding the right crowdfunding platform and shares her thoughts on fundraising in the digital age. 

Whether you're interest is academic or you are looking to raise funds for commercial enterprise, charitable causes, or need money for education, Anne's crowdfunding workshop is definitely for you. The event will be held at Bridge 5 Mill in Manchester, on Thursday 2nd February 2012, and tickets are now available. Lunch will be provided and there will be opportunities for one to one support and networking. If you are interested in taking part then you can click here to book tickets as an early bird participant, brief details of the agenda, and directions to the venue. 

You can also follow Anne on Twitter @crowdfunduk

Image Credit; Kennisland