What one person cannot achieve alone, the community can achieve!
The idea of collaborating with a crowd to finance a project is no longer a fringe phenomenon in the startup scene. Rather, crowdfunding is increasingly establishing itself as a key component of startup financing. The Munich-based startup Kurzzug is currently attempting a campaign, and is doing a lot of things right.
Munich isn't just a city; for many, it's also a way of life. And for those who want to carry a piece of this lifestyle with them at all times, the fashion label Kurzzug has just the thing: sturdy city bags and weekenders made from recycled leather from Munich's subway seats.
The design is complete, leather stock is available, and now the Munich-based startup, founded by Jörg Schleburg and Wolfgang Bischoff, has to focus on financing their idea and launching their products. And they're getting the crowd on board. On the crowdfunding platform Startnext Introduce yourself and your subway bags and thus recruit supporters for your idea:
The two Munich-based entrepreneurs are doing a lot right with their approach to the crowdfunding campaign. They present not only the products but also the story behind Kurzzug and address their target audience with their presentation – Munich residents who value individuality and stability – specifically. Furthermore, Schleburg and Bischoff reveal what they will use the stated funding goal of €30,000 for:
"If the financing is successful, we will invest fully in the production of the current collection and the further development of new short-stretch products. That is our focus.
We want to make Kurzzug THE brand for urban clothing and city bags, from Munich, with Munich, for everyone. The subway is the nucleus from which everything will spring."
Transparency and the associated trust are key elements of a successful campaign: In order to reach the predetermined funding goal, it is important to motivate as many individuals as possible to participate. Crowdfunding works according to the principle “All or nothing”If the target amount is not reached within the specified period, the money already collected will not be distributed to the initiators. A successful campaign therefore begins with the setting of the funding goal. Startnext, one of Germany's most well-known crowdfunding platforms, states in a Blog post about do's and don'ts of crowdfunding:
"Particularly high target amounts can seem daunting at first glance—especially if you've only achieved a small portion of them at the beginning. If you have a high target amount, it's helpful to get initial commitments before you actually start, so you can take a significant step forward on the very first day."
In addition to the financial aspect, it's the intensive development of a loyal fan base that makes crowdfunding so attractive for many startups. Ideally, the community—and thus potential customers—should persist beyond the campaign period. Crowdfunding tip “Nurture and care for your crowd” Startups should therefore always make this their mission, regardless of ongoing campaigns.
The crowdfunding campaign of the Munich-based startup Kurzzug is still in full swing. Anyone who would like to support the two creators and secure a city bag or weekender can can do this here.
Further helpful tips on crowdfunding:
