Reward Ideas

It's time to put a key question on the table: what makes a reward in a crowdfunding campaign enticing? The answer lies in the balance between creativity and perceived value. It's not rocket science, but it requires ingenuity.

The first step in designing attractive rewards is identifying what motivates your potential investor. Ask yourself, what kind of offer would make them raise an eyebrow or even take a second look? Here are some clues.

• Exclusive offers: Exclusivity always has its charm. Offering limited products or early access to services can be a powerful magnet. Imagine the sparkle in a customer's eyes when they become the first in their neighborhood to have the latest gadget.

• Public recognition: Public adoration is the new gold. A special shoutout on your website or during the product launch can work as an enchanting siren call for investors seeking visibility.

• Personalized experiences: Offering a unique experience related to your product can skyrocket your success rates. It could be factory visits, a dinner with the founder, or an exclusive webinar. The sky is the limit.

• Future discounts: Few can resist a good discount. Providing savings on future purchases is proven to attract investors.

The goal is clear: make the investor feel like they're getting a piece of the pie that no other store offers. Research what's already on the market and think about how you can improve it. Keep in mind that what works for one project might not apply to another, so adaptability is crucial here. And always remember: shiny things bind people just like golden straws attract crows.

In summary, rewards should resonate deeply with the investor's interests beyond mere superficial appeal. Now then, once you're clear on what to offer, it's crucial to address how to communicate it.

How to Communicate Them

It's no use having a clever reward if you don't know how to promote it. Effective communication is like selling apples to New Yorkers; it must be concise, direct, and preferably adorned with a touch of humor. You might even want to bring out your 'meme' side.

Understanding Your Audience

The first step is understanding who you're addressing. Is it a group driven by tech trends or one that seeks to support social causes? Once you understand your audience, you can tailor the tone and content of your message.

Defining Key Messages

Define clear and precise messages that convey the essence of your offer. These should highlight the unique benefits of the rewards and how they enhance the investor's life. For example, "Be the first to have what your friends will want" or "Enjoy an exclusive journey with every investment."

Choosing the Channels

Don't put all your eggs in one basket; it's better to distribute your messages through multiple channels. Social media, email marketing, and even a classic infomercial can work. You might even consider investing in influencers to amplify your message with their followers.

Using Storytelling Techniques

Create a story that captures your audience's attention. A compelling narrative can engage your target audience, ensuring they're not only interested in your rewards but also in your project as a whole. After all, who doesn't love a good story of overcoming and success?

Practical Examples

You’ve made it this far, congratulations. Now, it's time to see how all these winning strategies can come to life. Below are some practical examples of crowdfunding campaigns that have intelligently capitalized on their rewards.

Pebble and Its Smartwatch

Pebble was one of the pioneers in using crowdfunding to launch a tech product. They offered the watch to early backers at a lower price, which turned out to be a big hit. The exclusivity of being a 'first adopter' was the golden apple.

Exploding Kittens and the Power of Play

This fun and original card game offered personalized cards and unique events for its main backers. The combination of whimsical graphics and the chance to have something custom-made charmed the contributors.

The Peculiar Case of Potato Salad

Zack Brown started a Kickstarter campaign as a joke to make potato salad, promising absurd things. However, the campaign succeeded by offering simple thanks and mentions. Yes, sometimes the simplest rewards can surprise.

As Steve Jobs mentioned: “Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.” In crowdfunding and effective rewards, innovation can make the difference between meteoric success and oblivion. Try varying your offerings, communicate them smartly, and watch as the funds start pouring in.