The Pivothead Wearable Imaging campaign on Indiegogo has raised $127,718 at the time of writing and is still accepting pledges for a remaining 20 days. Not only have they managed to raise over 20% of their initial fundraising goal, but they have an innovative campaign marketing strategy, using referrals and contest-like perks to engage backers.
Despite competing with other well-known wearable smartphone integrated technology products like Google Glass and GoPro Hero3 Black, the Pivothead SMART has managed to attract a sizable following. The team behind this campaign was nice enough to put together a few tips for other aspiring crowdfunders interested in raising funds via Indiegogo. Be sure to leave a comment and check out their campaign!
1) Simplify Your Message
Know your product well – perhaps even a little too well. Make sure your product overview, competitive advantages, and potential uses are easily grasped at first glance.
2) Anticipate International Interest
Anticipate international interest and plan accordingly. We received a surprising number of questions from non-native English speakers. Sometimes we understood the questions, but sometimes it wasn’t all that clear. In order to avoid confusion, consider translating your page into multiple languages targeting key demographics.
3) Engage With Indiegogo
Engage with Indiegogo marketing and public relations staff before and during your campaign. Don’t assume that they’re aware of your project; make sure they know who you are and what you’re doing, so your project will be top-of-mind when publicity opportunities become available.
4) Listen To Your Customers – and Adapt
Backers and potential backers are your customers. Listen to their comments and have serious discussions about implementing their suggestions and ideas. From perks to product features we made changes based on backer feedback.
5) Line Up Early Pledges
You’ve heard it before, but we’ll say it again: line up pledges before the campaign starts so you come out fast out of the gate. Current customers, friends, family and industry partners – make sure they’re all aware of the campaign and are on-board. They’ll help provide the momentum to get your campaign going.
6) Seek Out Media Coverage
Getting national media coverage of your campaign can be tough, especially if you’re far from hitting your funding goal. Pitch them anyway, but don’t overlook pitching the campaign to your hometown media outlets. Highlight the local angle with these writers and you’ll probably get a bite or two.
