Information Service: Crowdfunding Campaign Due Diligence & Rating Platform

Opportunity Analysis:

The Reddit user clearly points out a problem and suggests a solution:

• Problem: "Shoddy Kickstarters that are either too ambitious or outright scams." This highlights a lack of trust and the need for better vetting in the crowdfunding space.
• User's Idea: "Should I create a campaign 'rating' website?" This shows a clear desire for a service to tackle the identified issue.

Product Suggestion: Crowdfunding Campaign Review and Risk Assessment Platform

A dedicated platform, likely a website, that provides independent analysis, ratings, and community reviews of crowdfunding campaigns (e.g., on Kickstarter, Indiegogo).

Specific Feasible Product Features:

1. Campaign Database: A searchable and filterable collection of active and past crowdfunding campaigns.
2. Multi-faceted Rating System: Campaigns rated on criteria such as:
   • Feasibility: Technical viability, realistic goals, and production plan.
   • Creator Track Record: Past project success, experience, and transparency.
   • Risk Assessment: Identification of red flags (e.g., anonymous creators, unrealistic promises, lack of prototype, poor communication).
   • Transparency: Clarity of information provided and responsiveness to questions.
3. Community Reviews and Discussion: Users can submit their own reviews, comments, share evidence, and discuss campaign legitimacy.
4. Expert Analysis (Optional Tier): Curated reviews or insights from experts in relevant fields (e.g., tech, design, manufacturing) for high-profile or complex projects.
5. Scam Alerts/Watchlist: A section highlighting campaigns with significant red flags or confirmed issues.
6. Educational Content: Resources for backers on how to evaluate campaigns, spot potential scams, and understand crowdfunding risks.
7. Progress Tracking (Post-Funding): For successful campaigns, track fulfillment progress and report on delays or issues.

Expected Benefits:

• For Backers:

  • Reduced Financial Risk: Helps backers avoid losing money on fraudulent or poorly managed campaigns.
  • Informed Decision-Making: Provides a centralized, independent source of information and analysis beyond the campaign's own marketing.
  • Time Savings: Reduces the effort required for individual due diligence.
  • Increased Confidence: Empowers backers to support legitimate projects with greater peace of mind.

• For the Crowdfunding Ecosystem:

  • Deters Scammers: The presence of such a platform can discourage overtly fraudulent campaigns.
  • Promotes Accountability: Encourages campaign creators to be more transparent, realistic, and communicative.
  • Improves Campaign Quality: Over time, may lead to higher quality projects as creators strive for positive reviews.
  • Builds Trust: Can contribute to a healthier and more trustworthy crowdfunding environment.

• For the Platform Creator (Potential Monetization):

  • Advertising revenue (if ethically implemented).
  • Premium features (e.g., advanced analytics, detailed expert reports, early access to reviews).
  • Affiliate marketing (e.g., for tools or services that help creators, or successful projects if disclosed transparently).
  • Donations or a subscription model for dedicated users.