Anthologies are a popular format in the world of comics, allowing creators to come together and showcase their work in a single collection. However, funding ongoing anthologies can be a challenge, as printing costs, artist fees, and other expenses can quickly add up. One solution that many creators have turned to is crowdfunding, using platforms like Kickstarter or Indiegogo to raise the necessary funds to bring their projects to life.
One creator who has had success funding ongoing anthologies through crowdfunding is Will Robson, the co-founder of ComixLaunch. ComixLaunch is a podcast and online resource dedicated to helping comic creators navigate the world of crowdfunding, and Robson has used his expertise to successfully fund multiple anthologies through Kickstarter.
So, how can creators fund ongoing anthologies through crowdfunding? Robson shared some tips and insights on how to make a successful campaign:
1. Build a Strong Team: Robson emphasized the importance of having a strong team in place to help with all aspects of the campaign, from marketing and promotion to fulfillment and distribution. By working with a team of dedicated individuals who are passionate about the project, creators can increase their chances of success.
2. Set Realistic Goals: When planning a crowdfunding campaign, it’s important to set realistic funding goals based on the actual costs of producing the anthology. Robson advised creators to carefully calculate their expenses, including printing costs, artist fees, and shipping fees, and set a funding goal that will cover these expenses while also allowing for some wiggle room.
3. Engage with Your Audience: Building a strong relationship with your audience is key to a successful crowdfunding campaign. Robson recommended engaging with fans through social media, email newsletters, and other channels to build excitement for the project and keep backers informed throughout the campaign.
4. Offer Unique Rewards: To entice backers to support the project, creators should offer unique and enticing rewards. Robson suggested offering exclusive prints, original artwork, or other special incentives to backers at different pledge levels to encourage them to contribute.
5. Plan for Fulfillment: Fulfillment can be one of the most challenging aspects of a crowdfunding campaign, so it’s important to have a solid plan in place for shipping out rewards to backers. Robson advised creators to work with a fulfillment partner or shipping service to ensure that rewards are delivered in a timely manner.
By following these tips and strategies, creators can increase their chances of successfully funding ongoing anthologies through crowdfunding. With the right team, realistic goals, engaging with their audience, offering unique rewards, and planning for fulfillment, creators like Will Robson have shown that it is possible to bring their projects to life with the support of their fans.