What is RocketHub and why would I use it?

We're an online crowdfunding platform that offers:

How does it work?

Here are five easy steps:

1. Post the project (no upfront cost to launch):

• Describe the project in words and visuals (art, science, business, and social good projects - all welcome)
• Set the funding goal and fundraising timeframe
• Explain what you will give or do (goods or services) in exchange for funds
• Use RocketHub's Crowdfunding Success School to support you along the way

2. Tell everyone you know, and keep up the communication to create buzz and momentum

3. Raise your funds

• Raise money from anywhere around the world
• Keep the funds you raise (not an 'all or nothing' model)
• Reach your goal: 4% commission fee + 4% credit card handling fee
• Don't reach your goal: 8% commission fee + 4% credit card handling fee
• Get paid out fast

4. Do your project and communicate with your funders on how it is going

5. Get those goods/services back to your funders as promised

What is crowdfunding?

The act of many people contributing money to a project in exchange for a good or service, esp. to expand and democratize opportunity.

How do people use crowdfunding to help them?

People use crowdfunding in different ways. Some people use it for straight fundraising for their project. Others use it for raising money, but focus more on getting people excited about their idea, spreading awareness, and marketing.

Why does crowdfunding exist?

It is a new take on an old idea. In ages past, art, research, and inventions were often funded by patrons. The difference with crowdfunding is that you get smaller amounts from many patrons (not one wealthy aristocrat). And, of course, it is via the Internet.

Why crowdfunding and why now?

We are more connected than ever before. Modern social networking makes reaching out simple and virtually free. And more people are working for themselves and taking up projects independently. A new revolution is emerging on the grassroots level of independent creativity and entrepreneurship. Crowdfunding is the foundation of this new economy.

How do I know if it is for me?

You have a project that excites you, and you think it will excite others, especially those in your network.

How can I be successful at crowdfunding?

After years of experience and observation, we have narrowed down the formula:

Project + Network + Goods =

These factors determine which projects achieve their goals. Your network is the center of any successful project. Those who press the funding button will make an emotional connection with how you talk about your project. Funders may be moved by your passion, the project itself, or both, but somehow you made them feel they had to support you.

Who can use RocketHub?

Anyone, everyone. There are no barriers. And as long as your idea is legal and in good taste, you are good to go.

How can I figure out how much I could potentially raise?

First, look at your network (social media and beyond), and come up with a number of how many people are in it. Then, multiply that by the amount you think you could raise from each person or you can use the RocketHub average per person contribution, which is $75. Then you'll have the figure of how much your total network is potentially worth. This is a good place to start, but base your funding goal on how much you need. Go to Phase 1 - Master the Basics of RocketHub's Success School for more information.

Can I keep what I raise?

Yes.

How much does it cost?

Reach your goals: 4% commission fee + 4% credit card handling fee. Don't reach your goals: 8% commission fee + 4% credit card handling fee.

Can projects raise more money than their financial goal?

Yes.

Do I have to live in the US to launch a project?

No. You can live (nearly) anywhere in the world.

What can be offered as a good or service?

We call those the Goods. Anything that has value to your network, that you are capable of delivering on, and, of course, is legal and ethical, can be a Good. For more information go to Phase 2 - Prepare to Launch of RocketHub's Success School.

What can NOT be offered as a good or service at this time?

These Goods are not allowed:
Equity (ownership of your project)
Revenue share
Investment opportunities (including loans)
Entrance into lotteries, raffles, or sweepstakes

When do I get the funds that I raise through my RocketHub project?

Fast. RocketHub's payments team processes payments on the first Friday following the completion of your project timeframe. Generally, it will take 5 to 10 business days after that for you to receive your funds.

How do I receive my funds?

Generally, you will receive your funds by secure check or digital payment. Reach out to support@rockethub.com to check on the process for your country.

Where are the funds kept?

The funds are kept in a secure, separate US bank holdings account.

How do I reach the RocketHub team?

Contact support@rockethub.com — you'll hear from a real person out of our New York offices.

Does RocketHub own a % of products or ideas developed through RocketHub?

No.

Is RocketHub an investment vehicle?

The Goods model of crowdfunding is not an investment model. But stay tuned for RocketHub's new crowdfunding options.

Can I run more than one project at the same time?

Yes. But we advise doing one at a time for the best results.

Can I split one large project into a few smaller projects?

Yes. That can be a very good idea for projects that require a sum of money that you think will be difficult to raise from your network all at one time. If that is the case, split up the projects and fund them one by one.

What is the A&E-RocketHub partnership?

A&E and RocketHub have partnered to bring you an unprecedented opportunity to make your innovative idea a reality. A&E is the first major television network to fund and feature select crowdfunding projects. The A&E PROJECT STARTUP team roams RocketHub.com looking to feature entrepreneurial ideas like yours…on TV and more. A&E has committed significant funds to support RocketHub projects.

What are the details?

Here are just some of the possibilities that A&E PROJECT STARTUP could offer select RocketHub project leaders.

• Funding from A&E
• On-air exposure on A&E
• Featured placement on A&E's PROJECT STARTUP website at www.projectstartup.com
• Story in A&E's bi-annual magazine, The Idea Book for Educators

What does A&E PROJECT STARTUP look for?

A&E looks for exceptional stories, passionate project leaders and crowd validation (i.e., funding momentum). They are also looking for a general fit with the interests of their audience.

What can we do to be selected?

Be yourself and share your passion. See above question for what PROJECT STARTUP looks for.

Tell us more about A&E

A&E is "Real Life. Drama."  Now reaching more than 100 million homes, A&E is television that you can't turn away from; where unscripted shows are dramatic and scripted dramas are authentic.  A&E offers a diverse mix of high quality entertainment ranging from the network's original scripted series, including "The Glades," "Longmire" and "Bates Motel," to signature non-fiction franchises, including the Emmy-winning "Intervention," "Duck Dynasty," "Beyond Scared Straight" and "Storage Wars," and the most successful justice shows on cable, including "The First 48."

Does RocketHub have a say in A&E Project Startup selections?

No.

Why do people fund projects?

Typically, it is because of an emotional connection to the project and/or project leader. And the Goods help.

I don't use social media. Can I raise funds?

Yes. The most important communication vehicles are simply the ones that are important to your network. This can be email, phone calls, etc.

Does doing crowdfunding imply that I don't have the money to do the project myself?

No. Crowdfunding is new way to engage fans and pre-sell your work.

My network doesn't understand crowdfunding. What do I do?

Always explain RocketHub and crowdfunding on your project page. You can also provide links here to the FAQ and to Phase 1 - Master the Basics of RocketHub's Success School.

What are the pros and cons of different crowdfunding models?

The basic crowdfunding models that are available are 'keep what you raise' and 'all or nothing'. The former is just what it says. The latter is a model in which you set a goal and can only keep the money if you reach the full goal, otherwise you get nothing. At RocketHub, you keep what you raise. It is a better way to manage your network, and some money is better than none.

What if I can't do my project on the amount I raise?

Scale back the scope of your project and communicate that to your network.

Why is RocketHub testifying before Congress?

RocketHub was asked to provide our perspective and thought leadership on the design and implementation of the JOBS Act.

What is the JOBS Act?

Its full name, Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act, pretty much says it all. The JOBS Act was designed to help small businesses get funding by softening securities regulations, and it became law in 2012.

What does the JOBS Act have to do with crowdfunding?

The JOBS Act will allow you to do more with crowdfunding, i.e., raise investment capital from 'Main Street' investors.

What does this mean for me?

Today, you can offer goods and services in exchange for funds via crowdfunding. Soon, through the JOBS Act you will be able to also offer equity for funds. It's a whole new chapter for you and the crowdfunding movement.

How can I find out more about The JOBS Act?

Click here for more information and the latest news.

Why should I contribute?

To support a project or person that you believe in.

How much should I contribute?

Based on how much the person needs, what you can afford, and how much the good or service that you want costs.

Is my contribution tax deductible?

It depends. Some RocketHub projects offer tax deductible contributions. Be sure to read the project details.

Do I have to live in the US to fund a project?

No. You can live (nearly) anywhere in the world.

How can I contribute funds?

RocketHub accepts all major credit and debit cards through a secure international merchant.

When does the transaction occur?

Immediately after you contribute to a project.

How do I launch my first project?

Here are five easy steps:

• Post the project (no upfront cost to launch):
  • Describe the project in words and visuals (art, science, business, and social good projects - all welcome)
  • Set the funding goal and fundraising timeframe
  • Explain what you will give or do (goods or services) in exchange for funds
  • Use RocketHub's Crowdfunding Success School to support you along the way
• Tell everyone you know, and keep up the communication to create buzz and momentum
• Raise your funds
  • Raise money from anywhere around the world
  • Keep the funds you raise (not an 'all or nothing' model)
  • Reach your goal: 4% commission fee + 4% credit card handling fee
  • Don't reach your goal: 8% commission fee + 4% credit card handling fee
  • Get paid out fast
• Do your project and communicate with your funders on how it is going
• Get those goods⁄services back to your funders as promised

How do I know what is a realistic amount to raise?

Figure how much your project will cost, factoring in all people, materials, etc.

Next, look at your network (social media and beyond), and come up with a number of how many people are in it. Then, multiply that by the amount you think you could raise from each person or you can use the RocketHub average per person contribution, which is $75. Then you'll have the figure of how much your total network is potentially worth. This is a good place to start, but base your funding goal on how much you need to do the project you want to crowdfund.

Compare how much you need to raise, against how much you can raise, against how much effort it will take to raise your ideal amount. If what you need is more than what you think is realistic, then you may want to adjust the size of your project (i.e., break it into phases or pieces and fund one of those).
Go to Phase 1 - Master the Basics of RocketHub's Success School for more information.

What is the most important way to ensure I reach my funding goal?

Spread the word about your project to as many people as possible. Most of your initial funding will come from your network. And that is for one basic reason: Trust. It is the catalyst that gets the funding ball rolling. As you prepare to launch, view your network as having three tiers.

• Tier 1 – Friends, Family, and Dedicated Fans – Contribute first because trust and relationship is already established
• Tier 2 – Friends-of-Friends and Acquaintances – Contribute after 'trust signals' are sent (i.e., see other people contribute or see other people buzzing about your project via online discussions or press)
• Tier 3 – Broader Connections and the Crowd – Contribute last because it takes more work to gain their attention and win trust

Projects that raise the most are ones that start with Tiers 1 and 2, and build momentum into the Tier 3.

How do I know how long my campaign should be?

The length of your campaign depends on the amount you want to raise and how many people you need to reach your goal. Here's a good rule of thumb:

Shorter timeframes (than 30 to 75 days) require more time dedication and planning than many Project Leader(s) can handle amidst other priorities. Longer timeframes can become more difficult to manage as they lose a sense of urgency.

How much time should I plan to spend during my campaign?

The amount of time you spend will depend on how much you want to raise, and how much your network knows your work is ready to fund it. Here's a good rule of thumb:

How should I plan my campaign?

Your campaign will be a mix of communication methods - email, social media, blogs, press, live events, etc. Here's a good rule of thumb on how to start a campaign plan:

Should I do the project myself or should I have a team?

Generally, we have seen that projects driven by a team tend to raise more funds because they are able to tap into more networks of supporters

Posting the Project: Index

• How can I be sure my project gets attention?
• How do I write a good project title?
• How do I write a good project description?
• How do I offer goods and services that people want?
• What kinds of goods and services have other project leaders offered?
• Should I include video?
• What kind of videos should I include?
• Should I include imagery?
• Should I include audio?

How can I be sure my project gets attention?

Convey your passion about your project through your posting (title, description, Goods, video/images/audio).

How do I write a good project title?

Here are a few tips:

• Write a title that differentiates your project – use words like "support", "fund" and avoid words like "help", "donate"
• Make it relevant and catchy via intrigue, humor, and authenticity
• Include your name and/or the name of your organization

How do I write a good project description?

Here are a few tips:

• Introduce yourself
• Keep it to 3 to 5 paragraphs
• Have a tone that is reflective of who you are
• Tell the back-story of your project and your journey until this point
• Touch on "why this project matters"
• Include high-level details on where the money is going and what your are trying to accomplish
• Explain how RocketHub works to liberate ideas
• Make your call to action (i.e., what you want people to do [fund] and why) clear and compelling, convey "I need you to make this happen"
• Be authentic, be confident, show passion for your project and passion for adding value to others
• Talk about the unique Goods each funder will get in return for their contribution

How do I offer goods and services that people want?

We call those the Goods. Here are some tips on designing good Goods:

• Be thoughtful about the Goods your offer - they are a core part of determining success.
• Have a wide range of price-points: small ($5-$100), medium ($150-$500), large ($600-$1,000), and extra-large ($1,000+)
• Ensure the Goods have meaning and value to your network and beyond
• Have the small level be easy to distribute (e.g., MP3's, digital still pictures, acknowledgments on a website); medium level is often physical goods, large and extra large levels are often live/custom/special goods, services, or experiences
• Make the Goods special, unique, in short supply (e.g., custom, handwritten, signed, numbered, limited)
• Create a Goods menu that reveals your character and project brand
• Allow funders to be part of your project (e.g., their name featured, access to a live event, join in on production)
• Use Goods to help funders feel like they know you (e.g., if you paint, do photography, love cats, work that into your Goods)
• Offer experiences that get you to meet funders face to face (e.g., invite them to live shows, workshops, consulting sessions, tours, dinners), and provide these at various price points

What kinds of goods and services have other project leaders offered?

Here are some examples of good Goods.

• Acknowledgments:
  • Thank you on your website, on your product, in the CD liner notes, in the film credits, in your research report
  • Announcement at your event
  • Product named after funder
• Tickets:
  • Free ticket(s) to the show, event, launch party
  • VIP tickets/access at the show, event, launch party
• Versions of the finished RocketHub product:
  • Free or discounted goods or services (the ones your business or organization will produce once the project is done)
  • Digital, physical, "Deluxe version," or autographed version of album, book, app, product,, art, report, etc.
  • Fun souvenirs
• Experiences
  • A role in your project
  • Mentoring or consultation
  • An internship
  • Presence in the creative process, e.g., character names, product naming, song titles, walk-on acting role, etc.
  • Direct collaboration in your project, e.g., design, development, co-writing, producing, singing, performing, etc.
• Keepsakes
  • Sticker, pin, magnet, mug, poster, t-shirt, etc.
  • Copies of your previous work or products
• Personal services
  • Lesson in something you know, e.g., audio production, business planning, welding, writing, coding, surfing, cooking, film, etc.
  • Customized work, e.g., artwork, code, writing, music, etc.
  • Personal performance or demonstration
• Direct interaction
  • Post card, email, phone call, web-video, etc.
  • Invitation to launch party, ceremony, backstage, etc.

Should I include video?

Video should be considered mandatory. Projects with videos have a much higher likelihood of funding. Videos show you are a real person who is credible and trustworthy. Videos engage supporters in a more dynamic way than your project description. Plus, a good video gives viewers a reason to stay on your project page. And, most importantly, with a video, your project has a higher probability of "going viral." Don't forget to address the RocketHub community in your video - and thank them for taking a look at your project.

What kind of videos should I include?

Here are some tips:

• Be creative. You don't have to have a traditional video with the "talking head." You can use finger puppets, product demos, voice-over techniques, stop animations, etc.
• Yet, keep it simple. Videos that work best are often shot with a smartphone or webcam
• Make your call to action (i.e., what you want people to do [fund] and why) clear and compelling, convey "I need you to make this happen"
• Where appropriate, include a video of a demo
• Update your videos. You can make new videos to keep your audience coming back for fresh and dynamic material during your campaign

Should I include imagery?

Yes. Images give you an additional way to communicate your message. Pick images that reflect who you are and what you are doing with your RocketHub project for the main page. And also select strong images to showcase your Goods.

Should I include audio?

If your project lends to it, definitely. Audio can build additional credibility and foster further engagement. Certainly, a music project is a ripe candidate for audio, for example. You can upload an audio file to your project page.

Does my project need to meet a criteria or be accepted?

Your project must be legal and in good taste.

Does RocketHub review projects before they launch?

Yes.

Can I change my financial goal after I launch?

No.

Can I change my time limit after I launch?

No.

Can I change my Goods after I launch?

We encourage you add to your Goods after launch as a way to keep people checking back. But you cannot change Goods once you post them.

What if I have a typo or mistake in my Goods description?

Reach out to us at support@rockethub.com and we'll help you fix it.

Can a project be edited after launching?

Yes. We recommend keeping your project fresh and up to date. Listen to the feedback from your fans and supporters, and adjust accordingly.

Can I use RocketHub logo for promotion?

Yes.

How should I approach my campaign?

Here's your step-by-step path to successful RocketHub project promotion:

Step 1 – Commit to the dynamic campaign.
Uploading your project to RocketHub is just the first step. Take full ownership of your crowdfunding campaign. Commit to a plan built on what you learn here at the Success School, but allow for flexibility. Each crowdfunding project is different. Trial and error is a natural part of the process. Embrace it.

Step 2 – Reach out to your first funders.
If you haven't already, handpick 15 to 50 people in your network that love what you do, know what you are all about, and trust you. It is very important to have your first followers primed and ready to contribute right after you launch. This provides the public social proof of your credibility, and other funders will follow their lead.

Step 3 – Thank your first funders publicly and establish a dialog.
Thank your funders publicly on your project page and via social media. Facebook is great place to say "Thanks for the contribution Ricky - can't wait to deliver your Goods!" This builds credibility for your project to spiral out to a wider network. Keep this up throughout your entire campaign and establish a consistent communication with your supporters.

Step 4 – Spiral out to your social network.
Announce your project on your email list, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn, and any other social media you use. The message should reflect your character or brand, and should offer value to your network. Don't make it too salesy or make your project feel like a donation, charity, or begging. You are simply offering your network a fun journey and real value. Test your messages and be prepared to adapt your tone.

Step 5 – Let the story unfold.
Update your project page on a daily basis by adding blog posts and comments - RocketHub allows you to change your current video or add new videos. This is a great way to keep your followers aware of how your project is doing. Your campaign is a virtual event that must be nourished. Publicize and celebrate accomplished and upcoming milestones - e.g. quantitative goals (percentage of funding, number of contributors, etc.) and qualitative (blog mentions, press, etc.).

Step 6 – Keep them talking.
Find fun ways to stay relevant and keep your followers coming back by adding new layers to the journey. This could come through new Goods, live events and fundraisers, or other imaginative short-term initiatives. The goal is to keep your network talking and coming back to the project page - remember, "Conversation is King!" Your network will see and reward your hard work.

Step 7 – Meet the press.
Once your project has momentum, reach out to press and bloggers.
Repeat step 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 until you get to the final few days of your campaign.

Step 8 – Bring it home and finish strong.
Messages during the last few days should be updated faster and delivered with more frequency. Build on your success and add a sense of urgency combined with gratitude. Be sure to thank everybody for coming along for the ride.

How can I build momentum in my campaign?

If trust is the catalyst that gets the funding ball rolling (see Phase 2), then passion for your project is what builds momentum.

You convey your passion and create emotional connection through how you set up your project (i.e., description, videos, audio, images) and how you communicate throughout your campaign (i.e., emails, blogs, social media, live events).

How can I go viral?

Those who have viral campaigns are often surprised at the level of emotional resonance they evoke. Viral campaigns are hard to plan. Yet, there are some consistent elements of projects that go viral:

• Compelling video – Viral videos are tough to manufacture and predict. If you have an emotionally charged video, you have a better shot of the project breaking out of your primary network and into the Tier 3 crowd
• Tapped Tier 3 network and beyond – Project Leaders who have a viral project are able to access new people by tapping into their networks networks (i.e., their contacts become promoters and mine their own networks, etc.). Whether you do this by having a great video, leveraging people with social capital, or doing fantastic campaigning, it is a proved way to go viral
• Evangelizers – Gaining momentum gets easier when someone who is well connected vouches for your project. We call them people with social capital. This person can be a celebrity or an established connector. If you find him/her, there is nothing like it. Two or more is even better
• Complete quality – Viral projects rarely have an aspect of the project that isn't up to par. The project has strong value to the network. The Goods are great. The Project Leaders are giving their all, and have mobilized their network behind them. So, if you want to go viral, be thoughtful about every step and give yourself the best chance possible

• TV Viral: Through A&E PROJECT STARTUP, our partner A&E quietly roams RocketHub.com looking to feature entrepreneurial ideas. They look for exceptional stories, passionate leaders, and crowd validation. Some RocketHub project leaders will be supported by A&E PROJECT STARTUP – which means they'll receive funding from A&E and may be featured on TV, online at aetv.com or in A&E's magazine, The Idea Book for Educators.

  Learn more about this opportunity.

What is the most effective way to communicate with my network?

It's important to use as many methods as possible, but email consistently proves to be the most effective.

What's the most important thing for me to do above all during my campaign?

First, it is sticking to your plan to promote and putting in the time every day. Second, it is making it through the dip. In terms of funding activity, most crowdfunding campaigns are shaped like a U – spike, dip, spike.

What's the dip?

Most crowdfunding campaigns are shaped like a U – spike, dip, spike. Even the best ones. Why? Human nature. People start off excited. Then, for some, attention fades. Others take longer to decide. Then, the deadline gets close. And funding spikes again.

The Funding U

Not only can you experience a dip in activity mid-project, but many also experience an emotional dip.

Some project leaders think they have the one project that shouldn't have a dip. Or they get just one email from someone who isn't super excited about their project.

The project leaders continued passion is the key driver to success. So the most important thing you can do is: Keep the faith. Here's what you can do.

How do I approach the dip?

Think of this time as the period in which many people in your network are deciding whether to fund you (chances are, they will wait until the deadline). Re-energize yourself and your network. And, finally, remind yourself that not everyone in your network will get behind your project.

What should I do during the dip?

Here are some ideas that have worked for others:

• Hold a live event
• Update video and pictures
• Watch the story unfold
• Reach out to bloggers and press interested in your niche
• Add new Goods
• Create milestones (e.g., ´let´s reach 50% today´)

When do I get the funds that I raise through my RocketHub project?

Fast. RocketHub's payments team processes payments on the first Friday following the completion of your project timeframe. Generally, it will take 5 to 10 business days after that for you to receive your funds.

How do I receive my funds?

Generally, you will receive your funds by secure check or digital payment. Reach out to support@rockethub.com to check on the process for your country.

Where are the funds kept?

The funds are kept in a secure, separate US bank holdings account.

What needs to be done once funds are raised?

Deliver the goods. Keep your network engaged.

Why do I need to keep my networked engaged?

First, to keep your word on delivering the Goods. Second, most project leaders will crowdfund again, so keep your options open by keeping the energy alive.

How do I keep my networked engaged?

Communicate, engage and over-deliver. More specifically:

• Acknowledge and publicize that you reached your goal
• Announce and celebrate as you begin your project
• Do ´thank you´ shout-outs now and again

• Keep funders updated
• Use multimedia to document your progress
• Ask for input on your project

• Set expectations for timing and delivery (give yourself room to over-deliver)
• Follow through and deliver
• Ask funders to post their reactions to the Goods (helps broaden your network)

Who is responsible for making sure goods are delivered?

The project leaders.

Any tips on how to debrief my project by myself or with my team?

Yes. Here are some questions to ask yourself to learn for next time.

• How did this project go (including how you worked together as a team, if applicable)?
• Rate yourself on the elements of the formula (1 to 5, with 5 = outstanding):
  • Was my project resonant with my network (i.e., they felt my passion, my project was something they cared about)?
    • Rating: — — —
    • What would I do the same: — — —
    • What would I do differently: — — —
  • Did I engage my network throughout the project (i.e, I communicated with them throughout the project with the quantity and quality of message that got them engaged)?
    • Rating: — — —
    • What would I do the same: — — —
    • What would I do differently: — — —
  • Did my Goods have value (i.e., people in my network were enticed by what I offered)?
    • Rating: — — —
    • What would I do the same: — — —
    • What would I do differently: — — —
• Overall, what will I do in the same way for my next project?
• Overall, what will I do differently for my next project?
• What are my ideas for my next project?

How can I change my profile name and details?

Via your account dashboard.

How do I change my login ⁄ password?

Via your account dashboard.

How can i change my email address?

Via your account dashboard.

How do I delete my account or project?

Reach out to support@rockethub.com.

How can I become a RocketHub affiliate?

Reach out to us at partner@rockethub.com and describe what you have in mind.

What kind of affiliates do you look for?

Those who contribute to RocketHub's crowdfunding ecosystem and help project leaders succeed.