Have a creative project that needs funds from supporters to get things going? Not sure where to start or how to get the word out? Look no further than Kickstarter.

I can’t do a better job than Kickstarter themselves did explaining their service:

“Kickstarter is a funding platform for creative projects. We’re a great way for artists, filmmakers, musicians, designers, writers, illustrators, explorers, curators, promoters, performers, and others to bring their projects and ambitions to life. Project creators inspire people to open their wallets by offering products, benefits, and fun experiences.”

Kickstarter is not an investing platform – creators retain 100% ownership of the completed project. Kickstarter does take a 5% cut of the funds generated however.

Projects are hand-curated, although they say that projects aren’t chosen by taste, but rather by being appropriate to the service. In particular they are looking for “projects that offer rewards rather than begging for help. Projects with a history of effort or a path to completion. Projects that fit our focus on creativity. And don’t worry whether your project is “important” enough. Small, fun projects that a few friends knock out on a Saturday are some of our favorites.”

Some of the projects Kickstarter does not support are: “charity projects, raising funds for business expenses (rent, payroll, etc), soliciting donations to causes (medical bills, etc), or having people fund your life (travel, living expenses, etc). Additionally, Kickstarter can not be used to solicit investment or loans; projects may not offer financial returns under any circumstances.”

This sounds like a killer setup for creative types. Just a quick browse of the featured projects page and you can see how useful this service has the potential to be. I love the aspect where similar to a “pledge drive”, contributors are offered exclusives from the project as a thank you for larger contributions.

Kickstarter is currently in beta, but you can sign up to have your project considered.