5 Creative ClickStartMe Project Ideas for Innovators and Inventors
- Gadget Guru & the ClickStart Crew
Crowdfunding began as a way to fund artistic endeavors, but our goal at ClickStartMe is to enable anyone with a viable project idea to get the backing they need to succeed. With traditional funding sources – such as banks loans, venture capital, and government grants – drying up at an alarming rate, crowdfunding offers an imaginative way to fuel innovation using good, old-fashioned people power. It’s also an ideal method to supplement other funding options, which could make the difference between a concept that reaches the finish line, and one that languishes on a back burner. When it comes to the types of projects that can use ClickStartMe to generate funding and support, the possibilities are endless – if you’ve got an idea that doesn’t seem like a traditional project within your category, we’d love to hear it and help you get started! But just to give you a glimpse of the possibilities, here are 5 examples of “unconventional” projects that could use the ClickStartMe platform:
#1Technology Testing. Whether you have a awesome new video game, cutting-edge software or an shiny-new web service, you can launch a project on ClickStartMe and raise funds to beta-test your idea and get it market-ready. To make the most of every dollar donated, you can tie your rewards in with the testing, which gives you a double whammy of funding and feedback on what aspects of your offering need tweaking.
#2Invention Patenting. Putting your invention on public display without a patent is a risky proposition, but the patent process is time consuming and expensive. The good news for any inventor is that crowdfunding offers a way to generate the cash needed to patent their unique idea and take it from concept through to completion. Unlike other crowdfunding platforms, ClickStartMe provides every user with resources to maximize opportunities and success. Your user “Toolbox” has information about the process, but we would be happy to connect you with our partner Allen Black, an experienced patent attorney who can help you file for a provisional patent that protects your invention while you put out an appeal and generate support.
#3Education Innovation. Do you have an originative concept that could potentially improve the learning experience for students or put a new tool or technology in the hands of teachers and professors? Crowdfunding gives you a way to present your idea to millions of parents, students and educators who can jump on your bandwagon and help you realize your dream of making a difference.
#4Production and Promotion. Do you have a great product developed already and you’ve seen success with online sales, but now you want to expand your reach? A ClickStartMe project can help you raise funds to cover the cost of improving or enlarging your production facilities, develop new packaging, cover product certification costs, or help fine-tune or increase the scope of your marketing. Just about any aspect of creating or promoting a product can benefit from the exposure gained through the revolutionary concept of crowdfunding. One of the best things about using ClickStartMe is that, unlike traditional funding sources like venture capital or a bank loan, crowdfunding is a way to generate new customers and promote awareness while you’re getting the funds you need to accomplish your goals.
#5Research Funding. Maybe you’re an astronomer whose research project could change our perception of the universe – think the next “Back in my day there were nine planets!” paradigm shift. Maybe you’re a medical device developer with a new design that could impact how surgeries are performed and whether lives are saved – 3D printers in the operating room may pale in comparison to the revolution your device offers. Or maybe you’re a scientist who’s hot on the heels of a cure for a deadly virus. Whatever your research focus, ClickStartMe gives you the platform to reach a massive audience who can share in your vision, support your efforts, and cheer on your success.
So what are you waiting for? If you’re a renegade, it’s time to start a revolution!
