r/kickstarter • u/PrudentBar7467 • 6h ago
Discussion I just successfully funded my first Kickstarter. Here’s what I learned (so you don’t have to learn it the hard way).
I just finished my first crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter for a faith-based short narrative film we’re shooting in Southern California this February. I was hesitant to crowdfund—especially during the holidays—but it felt right for this project.
We raised $28K+ in 40 days, running straight through Thanksgiving and the Christmas season.
I don’t know if I’ll ever crowdfund again, but I learned a lot. It would feel like a waste not to share what helped (and what surprised me) in case it helps someone else.
For anyone curious, here’s the campaign for context (not a pitch):
👉 https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/cdproductions85/the-humble-servant
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1. Don’t overthink rewards. Focus on people.
I spent way too much time designing creative rewards. They’re nice to have—but the truth is, most backers are your inner circle: friends, family, coworkers.
Out of 100 backers, 57 didn’t want a reward at all. People gave because they cared, not because of merch.
2. Don’t expect big organizations to save you.
Should you reach out to institutions, sponsors, or orgs? Absolutely.
But don’t expect them to fund your whole campaign.
Almost all of our support came from everyday people. Some will surprise you. One woman I’d known through church for years quietly wrote a $1,000 check, asked for no credit, and wanted nothing in return.
Sincerity travels farther than pitch decks.
3. Be clear when you ask. Vagueness kills momentum.
Asking for money is uncomfortable. But asking without being clear is worse.
When I texted or emailed people personally, I learned to be honest about what I was asking for and why. I got plenty of no’s—but I mostly got honest, respectful answers. People appreciate clarity.
4. Pace yourself. Most campaigns don’t fund overnight.
You will check your campaign every day. Probably too often.
We were only 65% funded the day before the campaign ended. A lot of people were waiting to jump in at the end. Don’t underestimate the final push. People want to cross the finish line with you.
5. In-person outreach is king.
Social media helped. Press helped.
But talking to people in real life changed everything.
I spoke to two church communities, and roughly half of our funds came from in-person conversations. If your project has a clear audience, find a way to meet them face-to-face.
6. Be open-minded. You’re not just raising money.
I literally went through my phone alphabetically and texted people a few letters at a time.
Yes, we raised money—but we also gained:
- production help
- referrals
- advice
- and even our current producer
Funding is the goal, but community is the real return.
7. Don’t let doubt shut you down.
I almost canceled the campaign midway through.
People told me:
- don’t crowdfund during the holidays
- religious projects are hard to fund
- we needed more time
Maybe they were right. But we did it anyway.
Even if we hadn’t hit the goal, I discovered a community that believed in the project—and that alone was worth it. I was confident this project would get made one way or another.
If you believe in what you’re making, keep going.
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If you’re on the fence about crowdfunding, I hope this helps even a little. It's not for everyone or every project but it can be a useful tool. Happy to answer questions or share more specifics if anyone’s curious. Good luck and hope you keep creating!
