Kickstarter Projects: Can They Still Succeed After a Slow Start?

A common concern for founders and creators launching a Kickstarter project is whether they will succeed if their initial traction is slow. While a strong start is certainly beneficial, numerous factors can contribute to a project's eventual success, especially with the right strategies in place. Let's explore how a Kickstarter project can still achieve its goals even if it doesn't perform well during the first two days.

Marketing Efforts

Marketing is key to boosting visibility and attracting more backers. While early momentum can influence potential supporters, continuous marketing strategies such as social media promotion, email campaigns, and outreach to influencers can significantly contribute to the campaign's success. Regular updates, which keep backers engaged and attract new ones, are also crucial. These updates can showcase progress, answer questions, and build a sense of community around the project.

Project Updates and Engagement

Regular project updates can help keep existing backers engaged and attract new ones. Showcase the progress being made and respond to any questions or concerns from backers. Engaging with your community on social media and through email can help build a sense of community and excitement. This interaction can also help draw fresh interest from potential backers who are looking to support a well-supported and active project.

Media Coverage

Gaining media attention through blogs, podcasts, or news outlets can significantly increase visibility and drive traffic to your campaign. Positive media coverage can generate additional support and help your project reach a wider audience. When potential backers see that a project is getting media attention, it can boost their confidence and encourage them to support it.

Reaching Out to Communities

Engaging with relevant online communities and forums can help generate more interest and support. Reach out to groups that might be interested in your project or that align with your target audience. By participating in discussions and getting involved in the community, you can build momentum and attract more potential backers.

Stretch Goals and Incentives

Introducing appealing stretch goals or incentives can motivate backers to pledge and share the project with others. Stretch goals are additional rewards that are unlocked when a certain funding threshold is reached. These can include exclusive perks for backers who contribute more or help spread the word. Offering these incentives can encourage people to become more invested in the project.

Timing and Planning

Choosing the right time to launch your Kickstarter project is crucial. Avoiding major holidays or competing campaigns can help you stand out and attract more attention. A well-planned and executed marketing strategy leading up to the launch can help you achieve success even if the initial days aren't strong.

Recovery Strategies

Even if you don't perform well in the first two days, there are several strategies you can use to turn things around:

Personal Donations: Identify key supporters who can make early donations to jumpstart your campaign. By having several trusted backers donate in the first few minutes, you can create a sense of momentum and attract more potential supporters. Engagement: Reach out to your personal and professional networks, as well as any relevant communities, to engage them in the project. Personalized messages can increase the likelihood of getting potential backers to support your campaign. Reevaluation: Assess your rewards and see which ones are working and which ones are not. Replace any rewards with zero donations to streamline your project page. Critique your project page with others and consider a mid-campaign reboot if necessary.

While a strong start is beneficial, it's not the only factor determining a Kickstarter campaign's success. Many projects have turned around after a slow beginning with the right strategies. The key is to stay focused, engage your community, and adapt your strategy as needed to achieve your goals.