Monday, August 25, 2014

Could the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge Reveal the Secret to a Successful Crowdfunding Campaign?


At least once a year, a video; song; meme; etc. seemingly comes from nowhere to reach elite Internet virality—remember Tebowing or Gangnam Style? It's nice to see the ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) Ice Bucket Challenge has successfully combined a phenomenon with increased awareness and donations for the ALS Association. If your crowdfunding campaign is collecting dust somewhere in the cobwebbed portion of the Internet, try using these Ice Bucket Challenge takeways to revive your fundraiser.

Attract Attention

Be original. Be funny. Tell a story. A potential supporter or backer needs to feel personally invested in order to donate to a crowdfunding campaign. Think about the reasons you watch a video or read an article and emulate the same qualities in your own campaign. Make sure the information you provide is purposeful. Every word, picture, or video should work to answer the question "Why should I donate?"

Awareness Precedes Donations

The odds are against your campaign being unearthed if it's currently dormant, and donations won't roll in if it isn't getting any hits. You're job isn't done when you create a profile—it's just starting. The Ice Bucket Challenge's success is perpetuated by its presence on every social media platform and news source. Devise a plan to get your campaign in front of as many eyes as possible. Use every social media profile and communication tool you have to promote your campaign.

Trends Are Fueled (and Sustained) Through Sharing

Sharing is caring, especially online. Think about the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge—the nomination component of the challenge is its lifeblood. You can similarly enlist your friends to spread your crowdfunding campaign's reach. Also think about ways you can make your campaign "share worthy" through the creativity of others. The simple premise of the Ice Bucket Challenge invites participants to create their own spin. The challenge wouldn't be as enthralling if all videos were cookie-cutter.

No comments:

Post a Comment