In the past, writers relied on traditional publishing deals or freelance gigs to make a living. But today, crowdfunding platforms like Patreon, Kickstarter, and Substack offer a new way for authors to earn money while maintaining creative control.
Whether you’re a novelist, blogger, journalist, or poet, these platforms allow you to monetize your work, connect with readers, and build a sustainable income. Here we look at how each platform works, what types of writers benefit the most, and how to successfully launch your crowdfunding campaign.
Contents
Why Crowdfunding Works for Writers
Crowdfunding provides an alternative income stream by allowing your readers and fans to financially support your writing. Instead of relying solely on book sales or freelance assignments, you can create a system where your audience contributes directly to your work.
Benefits of Crowdfunding for Writers:
- Financial Stability: Create a recurring income stream outside of book sales.
- Creative Freedom: Work on the projects you love without publisher constraints.
- Direct Reader Engagement: Build a loyal community around your writing.
- Scalability: Increase income as your audience grows.
Now, let’s explore three of the most popular crowdfunding platforms for writers.
Using Patreon: Monthly Subscriptions for Exclusive Content
Patreon is a membership platform where fans can subscribe to support their favorite creators in exchange for exclusive content.
How Patreon Works:
- Writers set up a Patreon page offering different membership tiers.
- Subscribers (patrons) pay a monthly fee to access exclusive content.
- Writers can offer perks like early access to stories, behind-the-scenes updates, or personalized feedback.
Best for Writers Who:
- Publish serialized fiction, poetry, or essays.
- Want to offer writing tips, workshops, or tutorials.
- Have an engaged audience willing to support their work.
How to Succeed on Patreon:
- Offer Valuable Rewards: Provide exclusive stories, writing advice, or signed bookplates.
- Promote Consistently: Share your Patreon link on social media, newsletters, and your website.
- Engage Your Patrons: Respond to comments, take feedback, and make your patrons feel special.
Example: A fantasy author could offer $5/month patrons early access to new chapters, while $15/month patrons receive personalized writing critiques.
Using Kickstarter: Funding Big Writing Projects
Kickstarter is a crowdfunding platform that allows writers to raise funds for specific projects, such as book launches or special editions.
How Kickstarter Works:
- Writers create a project with a funding goal and set a deadline.
- Backers pledge money in exchange for rewards (e.g., signed books, exclusive content).
- If the funding goal is met, the writer receives the funds; if not, no money is collected.
Best for Writers Who:
- Want to fund self-publishing, printing, or audiobook production.
- Have a fanbase interested in premium editions or collectibles.
- Need upfront funding for a large creative project.
How to Succeed on Kickstarter:
- Set Realistic Goals: Research production costs and plan accordingly.
- Offer Exciting Rewards: Provide limited-edition books, signed copies, or exclusive artwork.
- Build Hype Before Launch: Promote your campaign on social media and email lists.
Example: A sci-fi author could run a Kickstarter campaign to fund a collector’s edition hardcover with custom illustrations.
Using Substack: Monetizing Newsletters and Serialized Writing
Substack allows writers to earn money through paid email newsletters, making it an excellent platform for journalists, bloggers, and authors of serialized fiction.
How Substack Works:
- Writers create a free or paid newsletter.
- Subscribers receive regular emails with exclusive content.
- Paid subscribers contribute a monthly or annual fee.
Best for Writers Who:
- Enjoy writing essays, commentary, or serialized fiction.
- Want to build a direct relationship with readers.
- Prefer a low-maintenance way to generate income.
How to Succeed on Substack:
- Be Consistent: Publish new content on a set schedule.
- Offer Free & Paid Content: Give free subscribers a taste, then offer premium content.
- Promote Your Newsletter: Share links on social media and in your author bio.
Example: A non-fiction writer could publish weekly essays on creativity and offer deep-dive premium posts for paid subscribers.
Choosing the Right Crowdfunding Platform for You
Not sure which platform to use? Here’s a quick comparison:
| Platform | Best For | Income Type |
|---|---|---|
| Patreon | Writers with an engaged audience who want ongoing support. | Recurring monthly subscriptions. |
| Kickstarter | Authors funding a big project like a book launch. | One-time fundraising campaigns. |
| Substack | Writers who want to monetize newsletters or serialized content. | Monthly or annual paid subscriptions. |
Crowdfunding platforms offer writers a powerful way to earn money, engage with readers, and fund creative projects. Whether you want monthly support on Patreon, a one-time campaign on Kickstarter, or a paid newsletter on Substack, these platforms can help you build a sustainable writing career.
Ready to start? Choose one platform, create an engaging offer, and start promoting your campaign. The sooner you build a community of supporters, the faster you’ll turn your writing into a profitable venture!
