1/14/2025

How to Set Up a Crowdfunding Storefront on Shopify

Crowdfunding has revolutionized the way creators and entrepreneurs fund their projects. From innovative gadgets to artistic endeavors, the possibilities are endless. If you've got an idea you want to bring to life, setting up a crowdfunding storefront on Shopify could be your golden ticket. In this guide, we'll walk you through every step of the process with all the juiciest details!

What is Crowdfunding?

Crowdfunding is a method of funding a project or venture by raising small amounts of money from a large number of people, typically via the Internet. Instead of seeking large sums from a few wealthy investors or banks, crowdfunding allows you to tap into the support of your community, fans, or even complete strangers who share your vision.

Platforms like Kickstarter and Indiegogo have made it easier than ever to raise funds for your creative projects. By showcasing what makes your project unique, you can inspire others to contribute to your journey. But how do you set up your own crowdfunding storefront on Shopify? Let’s dive in!

Get Started with a Free Trial

To kick things off, head on over to Shopify and sign up for an account. Shopify offers a free trial, so it's easy to start without a credit card. Select a plan that fits your needs once you’re ready to dive deeper into the eCommerce world. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do:

Visit Shopify’s homepage.
Click on Start Free Trial.
Fill in your email address, password, and your store name. Make it catchy!
Answer a few questions about your business.

Choosing the Right Plan

Once your trial is over, you’ll need to choose a pricing plan. Depending on how many features you need, you can pick between basic plans or more advanced ones. For crowdfunding stores, the Basic Shopify plan is usually sufficient.

Step 2: Design Your Storefront

Select a Theme

A visually APPEALING storefront is crucial for attracting backers. Shopify offers numerous trendy themes that you can choose from. Look for ones that highlight your products and suit the vibe of your campaign. Here are a few tips:

Choose a theme that allows for flexibility in design. You might want to showcase your campaign video prominently.
Ensure that the theme is mobile-friendly, as many users will browse on mobile devices.

Customize the Look & Feel

Once you’ve selected a theme, it’s time to customize it:

Logo: Upload a unique logo that represents your project or brand.
Colors & Fonts: Adjust the colors & fonts to match your brand identity. This helps create a cohesive look.
Navigation: Set up easy navigation menus to help visitors find their way around your store without getting lost.

Step 3: Create Your Crowdfunding Campaign

Adding Products

In crowdfunding, your products often include the items people can pre-order once they support your efforts. Here’s how to add products to your Shopify store:

Go to your Shopify admin dashboard.
Click on Products and then Add Product.
Fill in all product details: name, description, price, images, etc.
Mention in your description how contributions support the funding goals.
Utilize the inventory management option to track your product stocks.

Crafting a Compelling Campaign Story

People want to support ideas, but they also need a STORY that motivates them. Write a captivating story about your project:

What inspired it?
What problem does it solve?
Share your passion and mission behind the project!

Step 4: Set Funding Goals

Determine Your Financial Goal

Calculate how much you need to raise for your project, including costs like production, shipping, and marketing. This will be your funding goal. Don’t forget to consider:

Fees: Crowdfunding platforms often take a percentage of the funds raised.
Unexpected Costs: Always add a buffer for any potential hiccups down the road.

Choose a Funding Model

Different platforms have different funding models. Decide whether you want to use an all-or-nothing model (like Kickstarter where you only get the funds if you meet your goal) or a flexible model (like Indiegogo where you keep whatever you raise). This will influence how you present your funding goals.

Step 5: Promote Your Campaign

Promotion is key in crowdfunding. Utilize social media platforms to share your campaign. Create a content calendar for regular updates leading to your launch day, teasing your backers with sneak peeks.

Instagram Stories: Share behind-the-scenes updates and progress.
Facebook Events: Create an event for your launch day!

Build an Email List

Create an email list prior to your launch. Use services like Mailchimp to send updates, funnel people to your store, and create a sense of urgency as the launch day approaches!

Engage with Your Audience

Show that you value your backers’ support by communicating regularly throughout your campaign. Address their questions, give progress updates, and share your journey.

Step 6: Engage, Fundraise, & Follow Up

Running Your Campaign

Now the exhilarating part – running your crowdfunding campaign! Stay engaged with your audience, respond to feedback, & let them in on your journey.

Keep track of funds raised and make sure to update your backers about milestones reached.

Post-Campaign Follow Up

Once the campaign is complete, regardless of the outcome, thank your backers! This maintains goodwill for any future endeavors you pursue. Share your next steps & keep them informed about product releases or project timelines.

Why Use Arsturn for Your Crowdfunding Store?

As you embark on this exciting journey, consider enhancing your outreach with Arsturn. Arsturn helps you create custom chatbots for your Shopify store. Here’s why that’s crucial for your crowdfunding project:

Instant Engagement: Boost engagement & conversions by having a chatbot ready to answer questions immediately.
Customization: Tailor the chatbot to match your brand’s voice & messaging.
Streamlined Operations: Use the chatbot to handle FAQs and manage your customer interactions effortlessly.

The Arsturn platform is user-friendly, offering insights on audience behavior to refine your strategies. Best of all, there's no coding needed! Head over to Arsturn.com and start your free trial today – no credit card required!

Conclusion

Setting up a crowdfunding storefront on Shopify can be a thrilling ride, filled with both challenges and rewards. With the right strategies, compelling storytelling, and effective promotion, you can not only meet your funding goal but skyrocket your chances of SUCCESS. So, roll up your sleeves, get your creativity flowing, and let’s fund that dream of yours!

Happy crowdfunding!