Need Advice About Crowdfunding

[Clod Stomper]

I've only read about this concept, I've never used it.  

 

Basically, I need some new equipment but have little funds, so I thought I could raise the funds to buy it through one of the crowdfunding sites.  In return, I would provide a service to the donors using the equipment.  I might even try to start a small side-business, but not sure about that.

 

I've found four sites so far.  Kickstarter, GoFundMe, FundAnything, and RocketHub.  It seems like Kickstarter is the largest, but also seems to focus on "creative" projects.  There is no category for business start-ups

 

Can the donors be kept local?  I couldn't very well pay back someone if they're hundreds of miles away.

 

And lastly, if my goal isn't reached, is there a way to return the funds to the donors?  I see with at least one of the sites that you can only collect when the goal is reached, so the donor would get his money back, correct?  

 

Thanks for any help,

 

Will

[Capbyrd]

Kickstarter doesn't charge the supporter until the end of the campaign.  And then only if the goal is reached. 

[Clod Stomper]

That's good to know. Thanks.