Some crowdfunding quick tips from Docs In Progress Treasurer Kiley Kraskouskas of Thinking Forward Media and Docs In Progress Executive Director Erica Ginsberg.

#1

Launch a crowdfunding campaign when you have time to focus on it.  You need to devote a lot of time and effort to the campaign.

#2

Test your campaign with a few trusted friends before launching. Trust their honest reaction.

#3

Don't bite off more than you can chew financially or timewise with perks.

#4

Be democratic by offering perks at all price levels: $5 to $1,000. Most folks give $25-50, but don't rule out small or big backers.

#5

Match your perks to the themes in your film.

#6

Line up early-in funders to help build momentum. As soon as you get to 10% of campaign goal, you are 5 times more likely to reach goal.

#7

This is not just about fundraising, but about building your audience, so engage as many people as possible.

#8

Update your campaign regularly.  Use a video pitch if possible.

#9

Don't hide behind buzz words. Just be yourself. Ultimately backers are supporting you and want to know you. Authenticity goes a long way.

#10

E-mail. E-mail. E-mail. Best way to reach friends and family is via direct and personal emails.

# 11

Thank backers in a timely manner. Tweet shout-outs. Send a personal e-mail. Go old school with a memorable handwritten thank you note.

#12

Crowdfundraise at different stages of your project.  Be specific about how backers funds will help move the project forward.