How does crowdfunding actually work? Startups share their experiences

The Stuttgart-based start-up PROSERVATION develops innovative packaging solutions from grain husks. They ran a successful crowdfunding campaign in 2024 and report on their experiences.

1. Which steps did you take before launching your crowdfunding campaign?

We have taken the following steps to move our project forward successfully:

• Exchange with CF platforms: We talked to all relevant crowdfunding platforms to identify the best options and strategies for our project.
• CF video planning: We started planning our crowdfunding video and looked for a suitable production company to realize our vision professionally.
• Roadmap and campaign plan: A clear roadmap and detailed campaign plan were created to approach each phase in a structured and targeted manner.
• PR and marketing strategy: We developed a comprehensive PR and marketing plan to maximize the reach of our campaign and effectively reach the target audience.
• Multiplier list: A list of multipliers was created to engage targeted supporters who could spread the word about our campaign.

2. Why did you decide on the platform you used and were there any specific criteria you took into account when making your choice?

Econeers proved to be the ideal platform for our project as it specializes in sustainable projects. Our idea was a perfect fit and we were able to benefit from the right investor network.

3. What were the most important factors for the success of your campaign, and how did you keep supporters involved or informed after the funding was completed?

The most important factors for the success of our campaign were our extensive network and the strong support from our circle of friends and acquaintances. Through these personal connections, we were able to create a solid basis that contributed significantly to the distribution and financing of the campaign.

The entire crowdfunding process is handled via the Econeers platform. There, we regularly keep our supporters up to date on our progress, share news and provide insights into the development of our project.

4. What were the biggest learnings from the crowdfunding campaign?

• Do not set the company valuation too low - this is important for follow-up financing
• The network is very important for the success of a campaign
• You need a team as it is a really big project

5. What would you do differently today?

We would choose a higher company valuation.

PROSERVATION's crowdfunding campaign can still be viewed here.

Further information on crowdfunding can be found on the Stadtwerke Stuttgart website or in general at Crowdfunding.de