Kickstarter Expands Features to Enhance Backer Experience and Creator Opportunities

Kickstarter recently introduced several new tools designed to improve the experience for both backers and creators. The most notable innovation is the "Pledge Over Time" feature, which allows backers to split their pledge into four payments, distributed every two weeks. This functionality is comparable to services like Affirm or Klarna and should encourage more backers to invest in campaigns.

Pledge Over Time: A New Payment Pilot

Pledge Over Time is currently available for select campaigns but is scheduled to roll out to all campaigns by spring. This feature benefits both backers and creators, as it provides an alternative payment option and may attract more backers to support projects. Building on this success, Kickstarter previously introduced a related tool that allows backers to pledge to campaigns after they have ended.

Enhancing Search and Discovery

Kickstarter is also refining its search and discovery features to help backers find projects that align with their interests. New search filters and sorting options will be introduced on both the web and mobile platforms this spring. Additionally, the mobile app will receive a significant update by the end of 2025, allowing backers to view all their funded, live, and unsuccessful projects in one place.

Project Security and Transparency

To address concerns about project funding, Kickstarter will display a notice on the main page for projects that experience significant fulfillment failures. Backers of these projects will receive notifications outlining the issues and steps taken by the platform. Project pages will also feature more detailed information about a creator’s overall track record, similar to Indiegogo’s Trust-Proven badge.

Creator Opportunities

Kickstarter is introducing add-ons as a new way for creators to offer exclusive perks to backers after a campaign has been successfully funded. This allows backers to spend their money more flexibly and receive unique rewards. The platform is also streamlining shipping management and tax collection systems, making it easier for creators to manage their campaigns.

Conclusion

Kickstarter’s recent updates demonstrate a commitment to enhancing the experience for both backers and creators. With features like Pledge Over Time, improved search and discovery tools, and increased transparency, the platform aims to build trust and confidence among users.