5 things to consider when selecting a crowdfunding platform
There’s been a relative coming-of-age in the realm of crowdfunding platforms online, but it’s fair to say that the market can only support the successful ones.
In other words, it is a world of survival for the fittest. Here are some tips to help you navigate the turbulent sea of startup stalwarts and find the right crowdfunding platform.
1. Check if the investors are contented
One of the ways of knowing whether or not a particular crowdfunding platform is doing well is to see if its investors are happy. When an investment makes good money, obviously they will be happy and the signs will be written everywhere. Finding out should be very easy. Look at forums, especially online ones, and bulletin boards to see whether or not there are any complaints. If you find that there are several complaints, it will be clear to you that something is wrong somewhere. Use that to compare it with other crowdfunding platforms. It will help you choose one that works just fine for you.
2. Get frequent updates on performance
The best crowdfunding platforms to work with are those that offer regular updates on the performance of the startups. The platform should ensure that all the funded business submit regular reports showing how they are performing. A great way for platforms to keep in touch is to get experts in that niche to advice on how the startups can grow into successful companies. The other way is having an experienced board that will oversee the daily running of the businesses.
3. The platform should be an authorised one
It’s an unwritten rule that if you do a business transaction with a company that is not authorised, you are to blame. Only crowdfunding platforms that are authorized and regulated can protect the investor. Looking for a legit platform before should be top of the list for any investor who wishes to get returns on their hard-earned money. An illegitimate platform will cause you a lot of inconveniences, and you risk losing your money.
4. Choose a platform with experience in crowdfunding
Experience is one of the factors that make many business moguls and companies successful in their ventures. Look for a crowd-funder that has been in the business for some time and knows the dos and don’ts of the business. Experienced crowdfunding platforms have a broad range of knowledge regarding their niche and how to make it succeed within short time. Such a platform usually has a number of loyal investors who will jump at any of the opportunities they offer. This means that before the startups to be funded are introduced to the public, nearly half the amount will have been raised.
5. Do not fall for false claims
When the deal seems too good, always think twice. As you are well aware, there are thousands of crowdfunding platforms out there, and all of them are interested in your money. They will entice you with testimonials on how they have helped hundreds of companies and individuals. A first time investor will definitely be impressed when they see that the platform helped raise millions of pounds for companies. You need to verify this information on the Internet because many of these platforms are known to claim to have done more than what they have really achieved, all in a bid to get more investors.
It is prudent to do your due diligence on the platform and the startups you would like to invest in to avoid any financial losses in future.
The above tips will ensure you engage the best crowdfunding platform that meets your specific needs.
