Photo: Funcoo

“A crowdfunding campaign never runs perfectly” – Crowdfunding tips from Funcoo

Bicycles and beverage crates haven't really been a good match. Until now. Funcoo founders Stefan Roglmeier and Johann Feckl were able to convince not only their immediate fellow drinkers, but also a larger crowd on Kickstarter of their bike-mounted crate carrier. They share their crowdfunding experiences here.

Munich Startup: In many crowdfunding campaigns, market testing or marketing are the primary focus, in addition to funding. How was that for you?

Hans Feckl from Funcoo: For us, in addition to financing, the market test was also important. We already knew that friends and family Funcoo We found it very practical, but with the Kickstarter campaign we wanted to test whether strangers out there would see it the same way without bias. Fortunately, that was the case.

Munich Startup: How did you prepare for the campaign and where did you find good support?

Hans Feckl: The most beneficial thing was the exchange with other founders. They have already tried out a lot of things, and this helps you find your focus among the many things you could do. Crowdfunding advice from the City of Munich helped us a lot to become part of this network. 

Activate all contacts

Munich Startup: What was the most helpful tip you received while preparing the campaign?

Hans Feckl: Be sure to message all of your contacts as soon as your campaign goes live. While this can be awkward, especially at the crucial beginning of a campaign, it's incredibly beneficial, and you might even get back in touch with some people after years.

Munich Startup: What advice would you give to other founders who are considering launching a crowdfunding campaign?

Hans Feckl: Just get started! The hardest part is the first step. Once you get going, you'll find yourself struggling from one challenge to the next. A crowdfunding campaign never runs perfectly, but it's worth giving it a try, if only for the experience.

The crowd is everywhere

Munich Startup: What surprised you positively – or negatively – about the campaign?

Hans Feckl: We were surprised by the diversity of the crowd. Even people from the US, Singapore, and Indonesia supported us. While it was a logistical challenge, it was also really fun.

Munich Startup: What lasting effects did the campaign have? And what's next for you?

Hans Feckl: It gives you the confidence that you're on the right track. And the energy within the team is incredible afterward. The most lasting effect is the visibility and social proof. A year later, we're still regularly asked about our Kickstarter campaign. 

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