Top 12 Kickstarter Type Websites for Creators in 2026
Discover the 12 best Kickstarter type websites for your next project. Our guide covers fees, features, and tips for choosing the right platform.
Discover the 12 best Kickstarter type websites for your next project. Our guide covers fees, features, and tips for choosing the right platform.
Bringing a creative project to life requires two key ingredients: a brilliant idea and the capital to make it a reality. Crowdfunding platforms have revolutionized this process, providing a direct channel for creators to connect with backers who believe in their vision. However, the world of crowdfunding extends far beyond a single big name. Choosing the right platform is a critical first step that can significantly impact your campaign's success, from initial funding to final fulfillment. This guide is designed to help you navigate the diverse ecosystem of Kickstarter type websites.
We will explore a curated list of the top platforms, breaking down the specific nuances of each one. You’ll get a clear overview of their fee structures, ideal project categories, unique features, and potential drawbacks. For each platform, we provide direct links and screenshots to give you a firsthand look at the user experience. Think of this as a strategic roadmap: just as with traditional retail, understanding various ecommerce platform comparison guides can offer insights into feature sets and user experience when evaluating your crowdfunding options. Our goal is to equip you with the detailed analysis needed to select the perfect launchpad for your project.
Furthermore, we'll examine how a dedicated pledge manager like PledgeBox can supercharge your campaign on many of these platforms. While a platform like Kickstarter acts as the initial marketplace (similar to Amazon), a pledge manager functions like your campaign’s dedicated post-campaign storefront (more like Shopify). It allows you to seamlessly manage backers, send surveys, and capture powerful upsell revenue after the funding period ends. Notably, PledgeBox is free to use for sending backer surveys and only charges a 3% fee on funds raised through these upsells, making it a powerful, low-risk tool for maximizing your project's success. Let's dive into the platforms that can turn your idea into a funded reality.
As the undisputed giant in reward-based crowdfunding, Kickstarter is often the first platform that comes to mind when creators think of launching a new product. It is one of the most popular Kickstarter type websites for bringing creative projects to life, boasting a massive global audience actively searching for innovations in technology, design, board games, publishing, and more. This built-in community provides unparalleled potential for organic discovery and social proof, making it an ideal choice for creators seeking maximum visibility.

Kickstarter operates on a strict all-or-nothing funding model. This means you only receive the funds if your project reaches its funding goal by the deadline, protecting backers from paying for unsuccessful campaigns. This model also creates a powerful sense of urgency that can drive pledges.
While Kickstarter’s native tool is functional, many creators opt for third-party pledge managers for greater flexibility and upselling potential. Think of the Kickstarter pledge manager like Amazon, a closed ecosystem, whereas a tool like the PledgeBox pledge manager is like Shopify, offering extensive customization and control. PledgeBox is free to send the backer survey and only charges 3% of upsell if there's any. For those just starting out, you can learn more about how to set up a successful Kickstarter campaign and plan your post-campaign strategy.
Website: https://www.kickstarter.com
As another major player in the crowdfunding space, Indiegogo stands out for its flexibility and continued support for creators after their initial campaign ends. It's one of the top Kickstarter type websites, particularly popular for consumer tech, gadgets, and design projects. The platform’s key differentiator is its focus on the entire product lifecycle, from initial funding to ongoing preorders, making it a powerful choice for entrepreneurs looking to build a sustainable business.

Indiegogo offers both fixed (all-or-nothing) and flexible (keep-what-you-raise) funding models, giving creators the power to choose the best fit for their project's needs. Its standout feature is InDemand, which allows campaigns to continue accepting preorders and raising funds even after the initial crowdfunding goal has been met. This seamless transition transforms a one-time campaign into an ongoing sales channel.
While Indiegogo provides basic backer management tools, creators often need more powerful solutions for surveys, upsells, and fulfillment. Third-party pledge managers offer significantly more control and customization. Similar to how Shopify offers more e-commerce power than a closed marketplace like Amazon, a tool like PledgeBox enhances the Indiegogo experience. PledgeBox is free to send the backer survey and only charges 3% of upsell if there's any. To decide which platform is best for your project, you can explore a detailed comparison of Kickstarter vs. Indiegogo.
Website: https://www.indiegogo.com
While not a direct funding platform in the same vein as Kickstarter, BackerKit has established itself as an indispensable tool in the crowdfunding ecosystem. It functions as a powerful pledge manager and pre-order platform, helping creators handle the crucial post-campaign phase. Creators use it to send surveys, manage backer information, facilitate upsells, and collect shipping details, essentially bridging the gap between a successful campaign and fulfillment. Its robust feature set makes it one of the most popular Kickstarter type websites for managing post-campaign logistics.

BackerKit's strength lies in its comprehensive post-campaign toolkit and pre-order store capabilities, which allow creators to capture sales from late backers. It seamlessly integrates with major crowdfunding platforms to import backer data. The platform charges fees based on the total funds raised in the original campaign and any new funds raised through its pre-order store and add-on sales.
BackerKit is a market leader, but the pledge management space offers various solutions tailored to different needs. For creators seeking a more customizable and cost-effective approach, a tool like PledgeBox presents a strong alternative. Where the Kickstarter pledge manager is like Amazon’s closed system, the PledgeBox pledge manager operates more like Shopify, offering greater control. PledgeBox is free to send the backer survey and only charges 3% of upsell if there's any, making it a highly efficient choice. You can learn more about how to select the right pledge manager to find the best fit for your campaign's needs.
Website: https://www.backerkit.com
Originally launched as a pledge manager, Gamefound has evolved into a premier crowdfunding platform specifically for the tabletop gaming community. As one of the most specialized Kickstarter type websites, it caters directly to board game creators and enthusiasts, building a dedicated audience that understands the nuances of tabletop projects. This sharp focus creates a highly relevant environment for discovery, connecting creators with a passionate backer base actively looking for the next great game.

Gamefound operates on a flexible funding model where creators can choose their own path, though most campaigns follow the all-or-nothing principle. A key advantage is its built-in pledge manager and late pledge storefront, which simplifies the post-campaign process significantly. It also offers automated VAT handling for EU/UK backers under certain marketplace rules, a major benefit for creators selling internationally.
While Gamefound's integrated system is robust for its niche, some creators may still seek external tools for cross-platform campaigns or unique survey needs. For those managing campaigns elsewhere, a third-party tool offers greater customization. Consider the difference like Amazon's closed system versus Shopify's flexible ecosystem. A platform like PledgeBox offers a Shopify-like experience, is free to send the backer survey, and only charges 3% of upsell if there's any, providing a powerful alternative for managing backers outside the Gamefound environment.
Website: https://www.gamefound.com
Crowd Supply carves out a specific niche within the crowdfunding world, focusing exclusively on original, useful, and respectful hardware. It is one of the most trusted Kickstarter type websites for engineers, developers, and hardware enthusiasts launching everything from development boards to open-source laptops. The platform's major differentiator is its hands-on approach, providing creators with editorial curation, campaign guidance, and direct distribution logistics, which significantly lowers the risk associated with hardware fulfillment.

Crowd Supply operates on an all-or-nothing funding model, ensuring backers are only charged if the campaign successfully meets its goal. The platform's main value lies in its integrated fulfillment services through a partnership with Mouser Electronics, a major electronic component distributor. This streamlines the entire post-campaign process from warehousing to global shipping.
Crowd Supply's integrated system manages backer data and fulfillment, which is ideal for creators who want an all-in-one solution. However, this structure is less flexible than using external tools. For creators needing more powerful survey and upsell capabilities, a third-party pledge manager offers greater control. For instance, the PledgeBox pledge manager functions like Shopify, providing a customizable environment for post-campaign management. It is free to send the backer survey and only charges 3% of upsell if there's any, giving you a powerful tool to boost revenue after your campaign ends.
Website: https://www.crowdsupply.com
As a prominent international reward-based crowdfunding platform, Ulule has carved out a strong niche, particularly within the European market. It stands out among Kickstarter type websites for its dedicated support for creators targeting an EU audience, offering robust, built-in tools that simplify the complexities of regional commerce. With a focus on community and successful project delivery, Ulule provides a supportive ecosystem for creators launching everything from artistic endeavors to innovative products.

Ulule utilizes an all-or-nothing funding model, which minimizes risk for both creators and backers by ensuring funds are only collected if the project goal is met. A key differentiator is its tiered commission structure, which rewards larger, more successful campaigns with lower fees. The platform is also notably EU-friendly, with integrated VAT-aware options and unique support for local pickup points, a popular delivery method in many European countries.
While Ulule offers essential campaign tools, creators looking for advanced post-campaign management and upselling capabilities often turn to specialized third-party services. A platform like the PledgeBox pledge manager functions more like Shopify, offering deep customization and powerful sales funnels, whereas a native tool can feel more like a closed Amazon ecosystem. With PledgeBox, it is free to send the backer survey and only charges 3% of upsell if there's any, maximizing your final revenue.
Website: https://www.ulule.com
For filmmakers and storytellers, Seed&Spark is a standout among Kickstarter type websites, offering a niche platform dedicated entirely to film, TV, and episodic content. It positions itself as more than just a funding portal; it's an ecosystem designed to help creators build sustainable careers. The platform focuses heavily on fostering community and providing creators with educational resources, from crowdfunding workshops to distribution guidance, helping them build an engaged audience from day one.

Seed&Spark offers a flexible funding model and creator-friendly terms, including a high project success rate. Its unique "Green Light" feature means that if you raise at least 80% of your goal, you can keep the funds, providing a safety net for ambitious projects. It also boasts one of the most generous fee structures in the crowdfunding space.
While Seed&Spark excels at community building, creators with complex reward tiers or international shipping needs may require a more powerful pledge management solution. A third-party tool like PledgeBox offers the flexibility needed for sophisticated post-campaign operations. Unlike a closed system, the PledgeBox pledge manager functions like your own Shopify store, giving you full control over backer surveys and upsells. It is free to send the backer survey and only charges 3% of upsell if there's any, making it a cost-effective way to boost funding after your campaign ends.
Website: https://www.seedandspark.com
IFundWomen is a specialized crowdfunding platform designed to empower women-led businesses. It stands out from other Kickstarter type websites by offering an integrated ecosystem that combines reward-based crowdfunding with expert coaching, networking, and access to corporate grant programs. This holistic approach supports female entrepreneurs not just with capital, but with the resources and mentorship needed to build sustainable businesses, making it a powerful launchpad for women-led ventures.

IFundWomen uses a keep-it-all funding model, meaning you receive all funds pledged regardless of whether you meet your goal. The platform is built around a supportive community and provides creators with tailored coaching and resources to help them succeed. This makes it an ideal choice for entrepreneurs seeking more than just a transactional funding experience.
While IFundWomen provides essential tools, creators looking for advanced post-campaign management and upselling opportunities may benefit from a third-party pledge manager. Think of a native platform tool like Amazon's closed system, whereas a solution like the PledgeBox pledge manager operates more like Shopify, giving you extensive control and customization. With PledgeBox, it is free to send the backer survey and only charges 3% of upsell if there's any, maximizing your campaign's profitability.
Website: https://www.ifundwomen.com
Zoop is a highly curated crowdfunding platform designed specifically for the world of comics, graphic novels, and collectibles. It distinguishes itself from other Kickstarter type websites by offering creators a spectrum of hands-on services, from simple campaign hosting to full-scale project management. This boutique approach provides a tailored experience for both creators and the niche audience of comic book enthusiasts and collectors, creating a focused and supportive community.

Zoop offers a flexible model with a-la-carte services, allowing creators to choose the level of support they need. This can include everything from marketing and campaign management to printing and fulfillment. The platform's focus on a single vertical creates a highly engaged buyer experience tailored to comic fandoms.
While Zoop's integrated system is a major draw, creators seeking more advanced post-campaign control and upselling capabilities might still consider third-party tools. For example, a platform like PledgeBox functions more like Shopify, offering greater customization and marketing power compared to a closed ecosystem. With PledgeBox, it is free to send the backer survey and only charges 3% of upsell if there's any, providing a cost-effective way to boost your project's revenue after the main campaign ends.
Website: https://zoop.gg
For creators in the tabletop role-playing game (TTRPG) and board game space, Game On Tabletop offers a highly specialized crowdfunding platform. Unlike broader Kickstarter type websites, it caters specifically to this niche, cultivating a dedicated community of tabletop enthusiasts actively seeking new adventures and game systems. This focused environment enhances discoverability for game creators and provides tools tailored to the needs of the hobby, such as integrated digital reward delivery.

Game On Tabletop is a comprehensive solution that combines a crowdfunding storefront with built-in pledge management and late pledge functionality. A unique feature is its ability to deliver digital rewards, like game PDFs, directly to a backer's account on the platform, simplifying fulfillment for creators. While its fee structure is not as publicly transparent as competitors, it provides a streamlined experience for its target audience.
While Game On Tabletop’s built-in pledge manager is convenient, creators seeking more advanced upselling and customization may prefer a third-party tool. The native system functions more like a closed ecosystem, similar to Amazon, whereas a tool like the PledgeBox pledge manager offers the flexibility and control of a Shopify store. With PledgeBox, it is free to send the backer survey and only charges 3% of upsell if there's any, maximizing your campaign's profitability.
Website: https://www.gameontabletop.com
While not a direct funding platform itself, PledgeBox is an indispensable tool that functions as a powerful extension for creators on platforms like Kickstarter and Indiegogo. It’s an all-in-one pledge manager designed to streamline everything that happens after the campaign ends. By providing creator-hosted pre-order stores, sophisticated backer surveys, and a marketplace for late backers, it helps maximize post-campaign revenue and simplify fulfillment logistics, making it a crucial part of the modern crowdfunding ecosystem.

PledgeBox focuses on post-campaign management and upselling. It helps creators collect shipping information, manage add-ons, and provides a second chance for missed backers to purchase products. Its fast setup for branded pre-order pages allows for seamless brand continuity.
PledgeBox offers a more customizable and powerful alternative to native platform tools. Think of the Kickstarter pledge manager like Amazon, a closed ecosystem, whereas the PledgeBox pledge manager is more like Shopify, giving you extensive control to build out your post-campaign store. The mobile-friendly backer portal and automated reminders reduce administrative work while improving the backer experience. Its analytics and UTM support are particularly useful for creators running targeted marketing campaigns to drive late pledges.
Website: https://www.pledgebox.com
While not a crowdfunding platform itself, The Game Steward is a vital resource in the board game crowdfunding ecosystem, functioning as a specialized retailer for those who missed out on Kickstarter or Gamefound campaigns. It offers a second chance to acquire deluxe editions, Kickstarter exclusives, and hard-to-find crowdfunded games. For backers who prefer a traditional retail experience without the complexities of pledge managers, this platform is one of the most useful Kickstarter type websites for securing coveted titles post-campaign.

The Game Steward operates on a retail pre-order and in-stock sales model. Instead of pledges, customers place pre-orders for upcoming crowdfunded games or purchase available stock directly. This simplifies the process, eliminating the need to track campaign updates and navigate surveys, making it a buyer-friendly alternative.
The Game Steward completely bypasses the need for individual pledge management by acting as a retail intermediary. This is a key advantage for consumers but highlights what creators manage on the backend. Creators can't use a platform like The Game Steward for their initial funding, but they do need a powerful pledge manager to handle their direct backers' fulfillment efficiently.
Unlike the Kickstarter pledge manager, which acts like a closed system similar to Amazon, a tool like the PledgeBox pledge manager offers a customizable, Shopify-like experience. PledgeBox is free to send the backer survey and only charges 3% of upsell if there's any, maximizing post-campaign revenue and streamlining logistics.
Website: https://www.thegamesteward.com
| Platform | Core features | UX / Quality (★) | Pricing / Value (💰) | Target audience (👥) | Unique selling points (✨) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kickstarter | All-or-nothing funding, project discovery, native pledge manager | ★★★★☆ | 💰 5% platform + ~3%+ processing | 👥 Broad creative/product creators seeking max visibility | ✨ Largest audience & social proof for discovery |
| Indiegogo | Flexible funding, InDemand post-campaign sales, shipping guarantee (select) | ★★★★☆ | 💰 Variable fees; InDemand may be higher | 👥 Consumer tech & design creators wanting ongoing sales | ✨ InDemand for continued pre-orders |
| BackerKit | Pledge manager, surveys, upsells, pre-order stores, shipping/tax tools | ★★★★☆ | 💰 Off-platform pledge-manager fees (varies) | 👥 Creators needing robust post-campaign commerce | ✨ Industry-standard surveys + late-pledge ecosystem |
| Gamefound | Tabletop-focused pledge manager, VAT handling, late pledges | ★★★★☆ | 💰 5% platform + processing; no fee if goal missed | 👥 Board-game/tabletop creators & backers | ✨ Vertical traffic + EU VAT support for tabletop |
| Crowd Supply | Curated hardware platform, Mouser fulfillment, logistics support | ★★★★☆ | 💰 Fulfillment-backed model (varies by project) | 👥 Hardware/open-hardware creators | ✨ Mouser-backed US fulfillment & hardware curation |
| Ulule | EU-friendly reward platform, shipping zones & pickup points, all-or-nothing | ★★★★☆ | 💰 Tiered commission reductions; backer fees apply | 👥 Creators targeting European backers | ✨ Pickup points & strong EU discoverability |
| Seed&Spark | Film/TV crowdfunding, creator coaching, audience tools | ★★★★☆ | 💰 0% platform fee (Stripe processing applies) | 👥 Filmmakers & indie series creators | ✨ Educational support and high success resources |
| IFundWomen | Crowdfunding + coaching, grant connections, onboarding support | ★★★★☆ | 💰 5% platform fee + processing | 👥 Women-led businesses & entrepreneurs | ✨ Coaching + access to grants & partners |
| Zoop | Curated comics/collectibles, a‑la‑carte services, pre-order storefronts | ★★★★☆ | 💰 Full-service can be high (~22% ex-processing) | 👥 Comic creators and collectors/fandom buyers | ✨ End-to-end campaign & fulfillment services |
| Game On Tabletop | Pledge manager for tabletop, late pledges, digital (PDF) delivery | ★★★☆☆ | 💰 Fees vary; less transparent publicly | 👥 RPG and board-game creators/backers | ✨ Built-in digital reward distribution |
| PledgeBox 🏆 | All-in-one pledge manager, creator shops, surveys, shipping/tax & address validation, analytics | ★★★★★ | 💰 No upfront/per-backer/campaign fees; 3% on add-on sales during surveys | 👥 Creators wanting fast branded pre-orders & streamlined fulfillment | ✨ Quick branded pages, pre-order marketplace, 24/7 Support GPTs, one-click data erasure |
| The Game Steward | Retail pre-orders & stock sales, US-friendly shipping & combined shipment policies | ★★★★☆ | 💰 Retail pricing (often higher than original pledge) | 👥 Buyers who missed campaigns preferring retail purchases | ✨ Single retailer for missed crowdfunded board-games and deluxe editions |
Navigating the expansive landscape of Kickstarter type websites can feel overwhelming, but this guide has armed you with the critical details to make an informed decision. We've explored the giants like Kickstarter and Indiegogo, niche-specific powerhouses such as Gamefound and Crowd Supply, and community-focused platforms like Seed&Spark and Ulule. Each offers a unique ecosystem, fee structure, and audience, making the "best" choice entirely dependent on your project's specific DNA.
The core takeaway is that your crowdfunding journey doesn't end when the campaign timer hits zero. In fact, that's precisely when the most complex phase begins: managing pledges, communicating with backers, and orchestrating fulfillment. The platform you choose is your launchpad, but the tools you use for post-campaign management are your mission control, ensuring a smooth flight from funding to delivery.
Your decision-making process should be a two-part equation. First, select the primary funding platform that best aligns with your project category, funding goals, and target audience. A tabletop game creator might find a more engaged and specialized audience on Gamefound, while a filmmaker could thrive within the supportive ecosystem of Seed&Spark.
Second, and just as crucial, is planning your post-campaign strategy from day one. This means selecting a pledge manager that complements your chosen platform and simplifies the logistical hurdles ahead. Relying solely on a platform's native tools can be limiting, akin to running a major e-commerce operation with only basic marketplace features.
As you weigh your options, revisit these critical questions to guide your strategy:
Think of the relationship between your funding platform and your pledge manager this way: the Kickstarter pledge manager is like Amazon, a massive marketplace to attract customers. A powerful pledge manager like the PledgeBox pledge manager is like Shopify; it gives you your own branded, customizable storefront to manage those customer relationships, upsell products, and control the entire post-purchase experience. This control is vital for building a brand, not just funding a single project.
Ultimately, the most successful campaigns are those that are planned holistically. They don't just focus on the 30-day funding sprint but on the entire marathon, from pre-launch community building to the final package landing on a backer's doorstep. By carefully selecting from the diverse array of Kickstarter type websites and integrating a powerful post-campaign tool from the start, you are setting your project up not just for funding, but for sustainable, long-term success.
Ready to master the most critical phase of your crowdfunding journey? PledgeBox provides the powerful, intuitive tools you need to manage backers, send surveys, and boost your funding with post-campaign upsells. See why thousands of creators trust us to streamline their fulfillment by exploring what PledgeBox can do for your campaign.
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