What happens if a Kickstarter project doesn't reach its funding goal?

Asked 2 years ago
If a Kickstarter project does not reach its funding goal by the end of the campaign, the project is considered unsuccessful. In this case, the important aspect of Kickstarter’s all-or-nothing funding model comes into play. This means that no funds are collected from backers, and the project creator does not receive any money. This approach helps ensure that project creators have sufficient resources to deliver on their promises, as they only receive funding if they meet or exceed their specified goal. Backers can feel reassured that they will not be charged for projects that do not reach their funding targets. Moreover, it is a good practice for project creators to communicate with their backers throughout the campaign, updating them about progress and any challenges faced. For creators, if a project fails to meet its goal, it may still provide valuable insights into what worked and what did not, which can be useful for future efforts. Those interested can explore the current webpage for more detailed information related to project funding and strategies for success.
Adam Goldkamp is the editor / author responsible for this content.
Answered Jul 14, 2025

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