Best crowdfunding sites in Australia

What to look for in an Australian crowdfunding site

Crowdfunding has become one of the most viable options for those seeking financial support for various personal causes through fundraising platforms. A fundraising platform gives communities, individuals and organisations, the opportunity to interact and support a worthy cause - Providing an avenue for individuals to raise funds whilst seeking the support of the wider community.

Here is a quick snapshot of what you should look for in a crowdfunding site in Australia.

The crowdfunding website should provide:

• Fundraising options for a wide range of personal causes such as medical, in memorial and community support causes.

• Offer a 24/7 email or phone support system.

• Free PR and media support.

• No upfront fees or set-up costs.

• Transactions through PayPal and all credit/debit card payment options.

• Pledge important dates such as birthdays or anniversaries.

Personal cause crowdfunding sites: What to look for

Funding industries:

Whilst there are many crowdfunding platforms available to the public, various services are industry specific, and therefore cater to a particular audience or cause. Choosing a service that will not limit funding capabilities is therefore highly necessary. Whilst some services may be welcoming of any personal cause (be it raising funds for medical bills or recording an album), others may be solely focused on supporting non-for-profit foundations and charities.

Most importantly, it is crucial that campaigners understand and consider the difference between rewards based (fixed) and donation based (flexible) crowdfunding. Flexible crowdfunding allows those campaigning to keep all funds raised, regardless of whether or not they reached their goal. Fixed fundraising services however, only allow campaigners to receive funds raised if they meet the fundraising goal. Should the goal not be met by the deadline, pledges will not be charged to a donors’ credit/debit card or PayPal account.

Costs associated

When selecting which crowdfunding platform to utilize, it is imperative that individuals consider if there are any costs associated in creating a campaign. Ideally, setting up a campaign should be achieved at a minimal cost, to allow for a stress-free and easy process. Typically, a fee of approximately 5% of money raised will be charged across the board. Payment processing fees are also normally charged at the conclusion of the campaign, and it is therefore important that campaigners are aware of such fees before commencement.

Support

Campaigners should also consider whether the platform has a highly accessible support system that allows for email and phone communication, as well as PR and media support. The process of campaigning may be challenging and stressful for some, and it is therefore crucial that campaigners can find the necessary support when needed. Platforms that are responsive on all devices and are mobile friendly, should also be sought after when considering platforms to use.

So what is the best crowdfunding site in Australia?

Answer: mycause

mycause present themselves as an Australian crowdfunding company who are committed to providing Australians with a platform to support a worthy cause. They give communities, individuals and organisations the opportunity to interact by supporting charities, projects or simply people that are in need of funds for personal reasons such as medical costs, surgery or bereavement. mycause understand the importance of being able to provide such a service at a minimal cost and hence, charge no set-up fee. They have also ensured that they are mobile friendly, allowing for easy access.

In addition to this, campaigners are given the option of running both a fixed or flexible campaign. This ensures that campaigners are still able to receive the money raised throughout the duration of the campaign, regardless of whether or not campaign goals have been met. By providing such a flexible approach to campaigning, mycause are ensuring that both campaigners and donors are aware that each campaign is valued, and each donation has the ability to make an impact. Mycause also welcome Paypal donations, allowing donors flexibility when donating.  

PR and media support is offered for free at mycause, which allows personal cause campaigns to reach an audience outside of your immediate network.

mycause understand that crowdfunding can be stressful and challenging at times, and as a result, offer their full support to those donating, those campaigning, or anyone who may have a general enquiry. This is demonstrated by their 24/7 email and phone system, that ensures enquiries can be made at any time.

In addition to this, mycause give the general public the unique opportunity to pledge their birthday and other special dates. This is particularly reflective of mycause values, as it demonstrates their heart for supporting people in need, at every opportunity possible. Given many people may not feel the need to start a campaign, the ability to pledge your birthday means people can support a charity of their choice, allowing another means of positive impact to be made amongst the community.

Best of all, mycause is 100% Australian owned and operated.