Show Me the Money

If you're exploring self-publishing, you've probably already noticed that it's not cheap, especially if you've decided pay for professional editing, cover design and book design. The good news is that now there is a way to reach out to friends and strangers for support. Kickstarter provides a platform for artists of all kinds, including writers, to raise funds through the magic of crowdfunding.

By offering a small benefit and sense of participation in the project, artists are able to raise thousands in small amounts, often asking for contributions as small as a dollar. Benefits can be an advance copy of a book, a special edition just for contributors, or some kind of experience tailored to the book's theme. One of the most successfully funded projects right now is a YA series, Wollenstonecraft.

This is the made up story about two very real girls – Ada, the world's first computer programmer, and Mary, the world's first science fiction author – caught up in a steampunk world of hot-air balloons and steam engines, jewel thieves and mechanical contraptions.  For readers 8-12. (Wollenstonecraft on Kickstarter)

In fact, this is a book I would support. If you have a story (or magazine or website) that you think others would like to see become a reality, check out Kickstarter.

Update 6 June: I've just learned that Kickstarter is restricted to those with a US address, US bank account and credit card, and a US driver's license. But there are also European crowdfunding sites: Indiegogo and Ulule. In Australia, check out Pozible. Find even more info on crowdfunding in this post.