Crowdfunding Platforms for Individuals

Hospital bills don’t wait. Neither do school fees or rent payments. When unexpected expenses come up, finding financial help can feel impossible. This is why crowdfunding platforms have become a lifeline for businesses and individuals. With just a few clicks, people raise money for medical emergencies, education, creative projects, or new businesses.

Unlike bank loans, crowdfunding doesn’t require collateral or good credit. Instead, it connects people to a global network of donors willing to help. From covering urgent expenses to funding big dreams, the right platform can make all the difference.

But which one should you choose? In this guide, we’ll take a look at the best crowdfunding platforms for individuals, how they work, and what to consider before starting a campaign.

See also: List of the Best Crowdfunding Platforms in the World

What is Crowdfunding and How Does It Work?

Banks say no. Investors want too much. Friends and family can only do so much. Yet, when people face medical emergencies, tuition deadlines, or business funding gaps, they need money fast. This is where crowdfunding platforms for come in, offering individuals simple ways to raise money without debt or endless paperwork.

Crowdfunding allows you to tell your story, set a fundraising goal, and receive contributions from people who believe in your cause. Whether it’s a few thousand for rent or millions for a life-saving surgery, these platforms connect fundraisers with donors in a way that traditional finance never could.

Types of Crowdfunding for Individuals

• Donation-Based Crowdfunding – People give money without expecting anything in return. Best for medical bills, emergencies, and charity causes.
• Rewards-Based Crowdfunding – Donors receive perks, such as early access to a product or exclusive content. Ideal for creative projects, books, films, and tech innovations.
• Equity Crowdfunding – Investors contribute funds in exchange for shares in a business. Suitable for entrepreneurs and startups.
• Debt Crowdfunding (Peer-to-Peer Lending) – Borrowers receive money and repay with interest. A great alternative to bank loans for personal or business needs.

Crowdfunding removes financial barriers and puts the power back in the hands of individuals. The right platform can turn a financial crisis into a success story.

10 Best Crowdfunding Platforms for Individuals

Not all crowdfunding platforms work the same way. Some focus on personal causes, while others are designed for businesses, creative projects, or peer-to-peer lending. The right platform depends on your specific needs, how quickly you need funds, and whether you’re offering rewards, equity, or just seeking donations.

Below, we break down the best crowdfunding platforms for individuals, explaining how they work, their key features, and their drawbacks. This detailed guide will help you choose the right platform to maximize your fundraising success.

1. GoFundMe

GoFundMe is the most popular crowdfunding platform for individuals who need to raise money for personal causes. It is best known for helping people cover medical expenses, funeral costs, education, emergencies, and other financial hardships. Unlike other platforms that focus on business or creative projects, GoFundMe is built for personal fundraising.

One of its biggest advantages is that you get to keep all the money raised, even if you don’t reach your goal. This makes it an excellent choice for urgent needs, as funds can be withdrawn at any time. The platform is easy to use, with a straightforward campaign setup process and built-in social media sharing tools.

GoFundMe also offers a donor protection guarantee, meaning contributors can request refunds if a campaign is found to be fraudulent. This adds an extra layer of trust for donors, increasing the chances of a successful campaign.

However, since GoFundMe is widely used, competition is high. Campaigns that go viral tend to perform best, while those without strong social sharing may struggle to attract donations.

How It Works

• Sign up and create a campaign page, detailing your story and fundraising goal.
• Upload images and videos to make your campaign more engaging.
• Share the campaign link through social media, email, and other platforms.
• Donors contribute directly, and funds can be withdrawn at any time.

Disadvantages

• No built-in marketing support; success depends on how well you promote your campaign.
• High competition, making it difficult to get noticed without a compelling story.
• Transaction fees apply though there’s no platform fee for personal campaigns.

2. Kickstarter

Kickstarter is one of the best crowdfunding platforms for individuals launching creative projects. It is designed for artists, filmmakers, writers, musicians, and product developers looking to fund their ideas through a large audience. Unlike GoFundMe, Kickstarter operates on an all-or-nothing model, meaning you only receive the money if you meet your funding goal.

This platform works best for those who can offer rewards to their backers, such as early product access, exclusive merchandise, or signed copies of books and films. It is a top choice for inventors and entrepreneurs who want to test demand before officially launching a product.

Kickstarter has a strong community of backers who regularly fund innovative projects. However, the approval process is strict, and not all campaigns get accepted. Additionally, if you fail to meet your target, you receive nothing, which can be risky for fundraisers.

How It Works

• Submit your project for approval, including a detailed description and funding goal.
• Offer tiered rewards to backers to encourage larger contributions.
• Promote your campaign through social media, email, and Kickstarter’s community.
• If the goal is met, Kickstarter processes payments and transfers funds.

Disadvantages

• All-or-nothing funding means you get nothing if you don’t reach your goal.
• High competition, requiring strong marketing and a well-crafted campaign.
• Kickstarter takes a 5% fee from the total funds raised.

3. Indiegogo

Indiegogo is a flexible crowdfunding platform for individuals looking to raise funds for personal projects, businesses, and creative ideas. Unlike Kickstarter, it offers both fixed and flexible funding options, allowing users to keep whatever they raise, even if they don’t hit their goal.

This platform is popular for tech products, innovative business ideas, and social causes. It also has a marketplace where successful campaigns can continue selling their products even after fundraising ends. Indiegogo provides helpful resources, including marketing tools and campaign strategy guides, to help fundraisers succeed.

However, because Indiegogo allows flexible funding, some backers may be hesitant to contribute, fearing that projects won’t be completed as promised. Additionally, it charges higher fees compared to some other platforms.

How It Works

• Choose between fixed funding (all-or-nothing) or flexible funding (keep what you raise).
• Set up a campaign page with a description, images, and videos.
• Promote the campaign to attract donors and backers.
• Withdraw funds as they come in for flexible funding or once the goal is met for fixed funding.

Disadvantages

• Higher fees compared to some competitors.
• Success depends heavily on self-promotion.
• Some donors are hesitant due to the flexible funding model.

4. Patreon

Patreon is a unique crowdfunding platform for individuals who create regular content. It is ideal for YouTubers, podcasters, musicians, writers, and digital artists who want to generate steady income from their work. Instead of one-time donations, Patreon works on a subscription model, where supporters (patrons) contribute a set amount every month in exchange for exclusive content or perks.

Many content creators use Patreon to provide behind-the-scenes content, early access to videos, exclusive podcasts, and merchandise to their subscribers. The platform provides an excellent way to build a community while securing reliable income.

However, Patreon requires constant content creation to keep patrons engaged. If supporters feel they aren’t getting enough value, they may cancel their subscriptions. Also, Patreon takes a percentage of every pledge, which can add up over time.

How It Works

• Set up a Patreon page and define membership tiers with different perks.
• Supporters subscribe and contribute monthly to access exclusive content.
• Engage with patrons by providing regular updates, Q&A sessions, or special content.
• Receive payouts every month based on the number of active patrons.

Disadvantages

• Requires continuous content creation to maintain subscriptions.
• Patreon takes a cut of monthly earnings.
• Competition with other creators can make it hard to stand out.

5. Fundly

Fundly is a donation-based crowdfunding platform for individuals raising money for personal, social, or nonprofit causes. It is one of the easiest platforms to use, with no funding goal requirements and no penalties for incomplete campaigns. Fundly is best suited for medical expenses, community projects, disaster relief, and personal hardships.

The platform offers great social media integration, making it easy to share campaigns and attract donors. Fundly also provides built-in email tools to help fundraisers reach more people.

However, Fundly is less well-known than GoFundMe, which means campaigns may require extra marketing effort. It also charges a platform fee, unlike some competitors that only take transaction fees.

How It Works

• Create a campaign page and set a fundraising goal.
• Share the campaign through social media and email.
• Receive funds directly, even if the goal is not met.

Disadvantages

• Not as widely recognized as GoFundMe.
• Platform fees apply.
• Requires strong self-promotion for success.

6. SeedInvest

SeedInvest is a leading crowdfunding platform for individuals looking to raise money for startups and early-stage businesses. Unlike donation-based platforms, SeedInvest operates as an equity crowdfunding platform, meaning backers invest in exchange for ownership shares in the company.

This platform is ideal for entrepreneurs and small business owners with scalable business ideas. SeedInvest has a strict vetting process to ensure only high-potential businesses get listed. Investors on the platform are serious about funding innovative companies, making it a great choice for startups needing substantial capital.

However, the platform’s eligibility criteria are tough. Only a small percentage of applicants get approved. Additionally, since it’s an equity-based model, fundraisers must give up a portion of their company in exchange for funding.

How It Works

• Apply and submit business details for SeedInvest’s review.
• If approved, create an investment campaign and offer equity to investors.
• Investors fund your business in exchange for shares.
• Once the goal is met, funds are transferred to the company.

Disadvantages

• Strict approval process; not all startups qualify.
• Fundraisers must give up company shares.
• Lengthy due diligence process before approval.

7. Crowdcube

Crowdcube is a an equity crowdfunding platform for individuals who want to raise money for their startups. It works similarly to SeedInvest but is focused on European entrepreneurs. Investors contribute money in exchange for shares, making it a popular option for high-growth businesses.

Crowdcube allows both everyday investors and professional venture capitalists to participate, increasing the chances of securing funding. It has successfully funded thousands of businesses, helping them grow and scale.

However, like SeedInvest, Crowdcube requires companies to pass a screening process before launching a campaign. The platform also charges fees on successful fundraises, reducing the total amount received.

How It Works

• Apply and submit business details for approval.
• If accepted, create a campaign offering equity to investors.
• Market the campaign to attract investors.
• If the goal is met, the funds are transferred to the business.

Disadvantages

• Limited to UK and European businesses.
• Requires due diligence and legal paperwork.
• High competition among startups.

8. LendingClub

LendingClub is a peer-to-peer lending platform that connects borrowers with individual lenders. Unlike traditional crowdfunding, LendingClub operates as a loan-based platform where fundraisers receive funds and repay them over time with interest.

This platform is best for individuals who need personal loans, business loans, or debt consolidation but don’t qualify for traditional bank loans. It offers fixed interest rates and a simple application process, making it easier for borrowers to access funds.

However, LendingClub requires a credit check, and interest rates vary based on the borrower’s creditworthiness. While it provides an alternative to banks, users must ensure they can meet repayment terms to avoid penalties.

How It Works

• Apply for a loan and provide financial details.
• LendingClub matches borrowers with individual investors.
• If approved, funds are disbursed to the borrower.
• Monthly repayments are made until the loan is fully paid.

Disadvantages

• Requires credit check and financial history review.
• Interest rates may be high for low-credit borrowers.
• Repayment obligations can be a burden if income is unstable.

9. Kiva

Kiva is a microloan crowdfunding platform that offers interest-free loans to individuals and small businesses in developing countries. Unlike traditional lending platforms, Kiva allows people to receive small loans from a network of individual lenders who want to support entrepreneurs and social causes.

This platform is ideal for small business owners, farmers, students, and social entrepreneurs who need capital but lack access to traditional financing. The repayment terms are flexible, and borrowers have access to a global network of lenders who believe in their vision.

However, Kiva’s loan approval process can take time, as applications go through verification before being listed. Also, since it’s a loan-based model, the funds must be repaid, which may not be suitable for those looking for grants or donations.

How It Works

• Submit a loan request and explain how the funds will be used.
• Kiva reviews and verifies the application.
• If approved, the loan is listed for funding by individual lenders.
• Once fully funded, the borrower receives the loan and repays it over time.

Disadvantages

• Approval process can be slow.
• Limited to social impact and small business projects.
• Funds must be repaid, unlike donation-based crowdfunding.

10. GiveSendGo

GiveSendGo is a faith-based crowdfunding platform designed for individuals raising money for Christian missions, charitable causes, and personal financial needs. It allows users to create fundraising campaigns while also offering prayer and community support for donors and recipients.

This platform is popular among churches, missionaries, and individuals who need financial help while staying connected to their faith community. Unlike mainstream platforms, GiveSendGo integrates spiritual encouragement with fundraising efforts.

However, because it is a niche platform, it may not attract as many donors as more well-known crowdfunding sites. Additionally, it primarily caters to faith-based projects, so it may not be the best choice for business or creative funding.

How It Works

• Create a campaign and share your faith-based story.
• Promote the campaign to churches, friends, and online supporters.
• Receive donations and access community prayers.
• Funds can be withdrawn as they come in.

Disadvantages

• Niche audience; may not attract as many donors as larger platforms.
• Best suited for faith-based causes, limiting its versatility.
• Fewer built-in promotional tools compared to bigger platforms.

Key Takeaways from Crowdfunding Platforms for Individuals

• Crowdfunding has become a lifeline for individuals in need of financial support: Whether it’s for medical expenses, tuition fees, emergencies, creative projects, or business startups, crowdfunding platforms provide a fast and accessible way to raise funds for individuals without relying on banks or loans.
• Different platforms serve different purposes: Donation-based platforms like GoFundMe and Fundly are best for personal emergencies, while Kickstarter and Indiegogo work well for creative projects. SeedInvest and Crowdcube focus on startup funding, while LendingClub and Kiva offer loan-based crowdfunding. Choosing the right platform is key to a successful campaign.
• Success depends on more than just choosing a platform: A compelling story, a clear fundraising goal, and a strong promotion strategy are essential. Social media, email outreach, and personal networks play a crucial role in attracting donors and keeping them engaged.
• Crowdfunding is not just about raising money—it’s about building trust: Transparency, regular updates, and engaging with supporters increase the chances of meeting your goal. The right strategy can turn a financial challenge into a success story.

Conclusion

Crowdfunding has changed the way individuals raise money, making financial support more accessible for personal emergencies, creative projects, business ventures, and social causes. Whether you need funds for medical treatment, tuition fees, a startup, or a passion project, the right crowdfunding platform can connect you with donors and investors who believe in your cause.

However, simply launching a campaign isn’t enough to guarantee success. To raise the money you need, you must tell a compelling story, promote your campaign effectively, and engage with supporters throughout the process. Choosing the right platform is just the first step, how you run your campaign determines the results.

With so many options available, there is a crowdfunding platform for every type of fundraiser.

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FAQs on Crowdfunding Platforms for Individuals

What is the best crowdfunding platform for individuals raising money for medical bills?

GoFundMe is the best platform for medical crowdfunding. It allows individuals to raise money for treatment, surgery, and emergencies without any platform fees.

Do crowdfunding platforms take a percentage of the money raised?

Yes, most platforms charge a transaction fee (typically around 2.9% + processing fees). Some platforms, like Kickstarter and Indiegogo, also take a platform fee (usually 5%) from successful campaigns.

Can I keep the money I raise even if I don’t meet my goal?

It depends on the platform. GoFundMe, Indiegogo (flexible funding), and Fundly allow fundraisers to keep whatever they raise. Kickstarter and Indiegogo (fixed funding) require campaigns to meet their goal before receiving any money.

Which crowdfunding platform is best for starting a business?

For startups, SeedInvest and Crowdcube are the best options. They allow businesses to raise capital by offering investors a stake in the company.

Can I crowdfund a personal loan?

Yes, LendingClub and Kiva provide loan-based crowdfunding, where individuals can borrow money and repay it over time with or without interest.

Is crowdfunding legal?

Yes, crowdfunding is legal in most countries. However, equity crowdfunding is regulated, and platforms like SeedInvest and Crowdcube require businesses to follow financial compliance rules.