How to Create a Crowdfunding Video

So, you've got a brilliant idea that's ready to take the world by storm, and you're all set to launch a crowdfunding campaign. Crowdfunding videos are a powerful tool for attracting attention, conveying your project's message, and inspiring potential backers to support your campaign. Before you hit that launch button, let's talk about how to create your very own crowdfunding video. A well-crafted video can significantly increase your chances of success.

Check out some of the videos from our crowdfunding favorites:

The Story Engine: Lore Master's Deck

The Magnus Archives Roleplaying Game

Gloomhaven

Lackadaisy

Mini Museum 5: The Fifth Edition

Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Write your script

Before you even think about pressing record, dive deep into the heart of your project and ask yourself some questions:

What's the why behind it all?
How does your project benefit your backer community?
What problem are you trying to solve for?

After answering those questions, now you can:

Outline the purpose of your project, its benefits, and why it matters.
Clarify the key points you want to convey in your video.
Then write a script or a list of talking points to ensure you cover all the essentials.

2. Know Your Audience

Tailor your message to resonate with your community. Speak their language, address their desires, and tap into their emotions. Your video should feel like a conversation, not a monologue.

Is your project a tabletop game with dark magic and monsters? Create a thrilling reenactment of the dungeons of old, full of surprises and brooding music.

Or are you an Enamel Pin Artist? Create a colorful and upbeat charming video showcasing your art process and designs.

3. Paint a Vivid Story

People connect with stories, so consider structuring your video like a narrative. Introduce a relatable protagonist (which could be you or someone benefiting from the project). Outline the challenge or problem, present your solution, and show the transformation or success that your project can achieve.

4. Keep it Concise

Attention spans are short, so keep your video concise. Aim for a duration of around 2 to 3 minutes. Grab your viewers' attention within the first few seconds, and maintain their interest throughout the video.

5. Radiate Passion

Your enthusiasm for the project is contagious. Let your passion shine through in your tone, facial expressions, and body language. When you're genuinely excited about your project, viewers are more likely to share in your enthusiasm.

6. Visuals and Production Quality

Invest in good visual and audio quality. Use high-resolution cameras, stable shots, and proper lighting. Clean audio is crucial, so consider using an external microphone. Visuals should be clear, engaging, and relevant to your project.

Check out platforms such as Canva, InVideo or Pixabay (free) for stock images, sound fx, music and videos that you can incorporate into your own crowdfunding video.

7. Music and Sound

Select background music that complements the mood of your video. Make sure it doesn't overpower the dialogue. The right music can tug at heartstrings and elevate your narrative to new heights.

8. Call to Action

Clearly state what you want viewers to do after watching the video. Whether it's visiting your landing page pre-live, pledging to a specific pledge level, sharing the video, or subscribing to updates, provide a direct call-to-action.

9. Highlight Rewards

Showcase your main rewards, briefly explain them in the video. Show the rewards visually, if possible. This can incentivize potential backers to pledge support.

10. Add Personal Touches

Behind every project, there's a creator with dreams, struggles, and triumphs. Share your personal journey – the late nights, the "aha" moments, the victories. This helps build trust and a sense of authenticity.

11. Editing

Edit your video to create a polished final product. Trim any unnecessary parts, add text overlays if needed, and ensure smooth transitions between scenes. Use editing software to enhance visuals and audio quality.

Check out free video editing software with no watermarks such as iMovie for Mac and OpenShot for Windows/Mac/Linux.

If it is within your budget, outsource the video editing to another creative through outlets such as Fiverr or UpWork.

If you have endorsements or testimonials from individuals who believe in your project, include them in your video. Social proof can boost your campaign's credibility.

13. Optimize for Mobile

Many viewers will watch your video on mobile devices. Ensure your video is easily viewable on smaller screens and that text is legible. Optimize for mobile, so your brilliance shines whether it's on a big screen or a smartphone.

14. Title and Thumbnail

Give your video an attention-grabbing title and create an enticing thumbnail. These elements significantly impact click-through rates. Content creators are known to spend hours on just one thumbnail, that's how important this is, like the cherry on top.

15. Promotion and Distribution

Once your video is ready, share it on your crowdfunding campaign page and across social media platforms. Engage with viewers in the comments section, answer their questions, and express gratitude for their support.