RIP Robin Williams 1951-2014

In the film Dead Poets Society written by Tom Schulman teacher John Keating (Robin Williams in what I feel was his best role) attempts to save his class of young aspirants from a life of mediocrity by inspiring them to think for themselves. In it he quotes from Walt Whitman; "O me! O life!... of the questions of these recurring; of the endless trains of the faithless... of cities filled with the foolish; what good amid these, O me, O life?" Answer. That you are here - that life exists, and identity; that the powerful play goes on and you may contribute a verse. That the powerful play *goes on* and you may contribute a verse. What will your verse be?" In answer to Keating's question Williams has contributed extraordinary verses to the powerful play lighting up the screen and our lives with his emotionally charged performances as an actor and his boundless frenetic energy as a comedian. His body of work is immense and although some could rightfully be buried in the landfill of awful forgettable movies (Cadillac Man, Hook) Williams' legacy is a plethora of incredible performances all of which deserved a nod from his peers. 

Pubslush Offers Authors Crowdfunding Lifeline

Self publishing and crowdfunding have opened doors for authors all too familiar with the hard hitting and painful rejections from the publishing houses. Whether it was through well known platforms such as Kickstarter and IndieGoGo, or specialist platforms including Unbound and Emphas.is authors have secured funds, established and collaborated with potential readers and even gained access to a publishing arm. Pubslush is the latest crowdfunding platform for books of any type to raise funds and get published but also with an analytics feature to gauge and build a strong readership.

Pubslush was founded by Jesse Potash after learning about how 12 publishers had rejected J.K. Rowling's first Harry Potter novel. After much research Jesse uncovered many instances of multiple rejections of manuscripts considered to be top sellers. The principle problem identified was the lack of significant financial backing to help writers publish their work. With the possibilities of so many potential best sellers looking to grace the top spots of book stores, it was decided that a global crowdfunding platform was needed to bring a democratic quality into a cut throat industry. The platform, Pubslush is exclusively for books, whether they be printed versions or e-books, and can take any form covering all genres. 

Pubslush is 100% committed to our authors. Since Pubslush is a niche crowdfunding site meaning we are ONLY for books, we don't have as many campaigns running at once and can more easily provide our authors and users with one-on-one assistance - Justine Schofield, Pubslush

Whilst funding is a key goal to publishing successes, Pubslush offers its authors many more features to increase prospects for a successful crowdfunding campaign. Unlike most other platforms that still use the all or nothing principle, Pubslush offers a flexible funding scheme which enables project owners to keep the any funds raised at the end of the campaign, provided they reach their minimum fundraising target. The figure is usually set at $500 however project owners can set their own minimum figure. Pubslush only deducts 4% of the total funds raised, making it a competitive service provider offering project owners comprehensive support through resources and educational tools. These cover everything in bringing a book to life from writing and publishing to managing a successful crowdfunding campaign. 

At the end of any campaign project owners benefit from a key feature of Pubslush, the Marketing Analytics tool. A full report is produced with a comprehensive demographic summary providing important information on investors. Such vital data includes location, age brackets, and traffic sources, all of which should enable authors to plan an effective marketing and advertising campaign. Pubslush's support of successful campaigns extends further by helping to promote sales of the authors' books with the addition of a "Buy Book" button on the crowdfunding page. This button links directly to the book's page and any net profits from those sales go straight to the author. Publsush also monitor successful campaigns in search of suitable titles for their publishing arm Pubslush Press, the first of which entitled "A Beautiful Mess" debuted in May this year.  

Pubslush prides itself with a major focus on giving; giving opportunities and resources to authors, potentially exciting titles to readers and most importantly free books to children as part of their "One for One Movement". For every book sold Pubslush will donate one book to a child in need to help combat illiteracy around the world. The platform's first partner is Flying Kites, an orphanage in Kenya, which thanks to Pubslush's efforts received over $10,000 in September 2011. As the platform grows Pubslush hopes to expand its philanthropic literacy operations around  the world. 

[Gazette Profile] FundTheGap Latest Platform to Offer Equity Based Crowdfunding for Small Business

Crowdfunding has always proven to be accessible and effective for one off creative entrepreneurial and altruistic projects. The rise of equity based crowdfunding, especially in the US thanks to the passing of the JOBS act, small businesses and startups can also benefit from crowdfunding. The latest platform to join the ranks of those providing equity based crowdfunding services is FundTheGap, a platform that offers crowdfunding resources and enabling better communication and management between project owners and investors.

FundTheGap was founded by Derek Uittenbroke, Christian Elmes, Martin Sherwood and Ken Ford who have garnered extensive experience in all aspects of finance, technology and fundraising. Between them the founders have amassed over 50 years of experience helping small business and startups secure a total of £500 million in much needed funding. FundTheGap looks to connect businesses with qualified investors and goes beyond conventional crowdfunding by enabling the investors to forge a strong relationship with the project owners and create a community built on collaboration. Amongst the ventures seeking funding are a Babraham-based Cell Guidance System in need of £200,000 for a 12.37% share. Other projects include a local authority initiative to increase the range of broadband internet in rural areas and a pub regeneration project.

Business and individuals to looking secure funding through FundTheGap must be incorporated in the UK and then submit to the the funding committee a detailed business plan for consideration. The business plan should include financial projections and supporting documentation. A meeting ,is then arranged between at least one director and the funding committee, in addition to some company checks being carried out.

Once the screening process is concluded and the committee is satisfied with the outcome, the entrepreneur will then receive help in creating the pitch, which must reach its funding target. Project owners can engage with potential investors directly, who in turn will be vetted by the platform founders to ensure they too are qualified and have the necessary funds to invest. Qualified investors can browse for suitable projects to support based on whatever criteria they choose such as sector interests and local geography.  They can also communicate with the entrepreneur throughout all stages of the funding, receiving updates and even offering feedback. FundTheGap also acts as a nominee service providing administrative support to investors and for the entrepreneurs a single shareholder. 

We have been watching the alternative funding space develop with interest. With other 50 years experience and having secured over £500m for small businesses throughout our careers, we are confident that FundTheGap will provide a complementary source of funds at a critical time for cash-starved UK smaller businesses. - Christian Elmes, Co-founder

Cash starved businesses and ventures could potentially raise £2 million through FundTheGap, which the founding members would co-fund from as little as £500 up to £50,000. Investors benefit as they would qualify for tax relief of up to 78% of their original investment under the UK's Enterprise Investment Scheme, and the Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme.  All in all the founders of FundTheGap have created a collaborative crowdfunding community protecting as well as benefiting entrepreneurs and investors alike, thus alleviating concerns of crowdfunding security. The platform stands apart as its founders clearly do not accept projects they would not be willing to support themselves, a position supported by their co-funding initiative. 

Image Credit; Ganderssen1

Help Write the Next Crowdfunding Book

Crowdfunding is taking hold in the UK rapidly with more organisations using it for commercial and charitable purposes, finding a lifeline where traditional forms of funding and investment are not available. Plans for a new book about crowdfunding have been announced by Modwenna Rees-Mogg, founder and CEO of Angel News, one of Europe's leading news service for the investment market. Research is currently underway and Modwenna is calling on anyone involved in crowdfunding to take part in a survey that will help shape the book.

Angel News was founded by Modwenna in 2003 initially as a hobby project. The idea came about after having identified a gap in the provision of investment news, specifically information about companies involved in funding rounds which left investors with little knowledge on the progress of their investments. Since then it has grown into a leading provider of information on over 1,800 rapidly growing businesses, as well as promoting investment opportunities to its network of angel investors and venture capitalists. Angel News also holds events every two months on hot topics surrounding the investment culture including exit strategies, as well as preparing the perfect pitch. 

The survey is aimed at those who are or have been involved in crowdfunding, specifically project owners, crowdfunding service providers or platforms, and investors who have donated to projects. To take part and help shape a potentially insightful and informative UK publication on crowdfunding, click on the following links;

• Fundraisers
• Crowdfunding platforms
• Investors/Donors

Early participants could be in with a chance of winning a free copy of the book with around 150 to be awarded, that is fifty copies to the first fifty people who take part in the surveys. The book is as yet untitled and currently undergoing research. It is however billed as being a book written by the crowd for the crowd.

Image Credit; Alex E Proimos

UK Charities Step Up For Crowdfunding Challenge

National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO) has launched a crowdfunding challenge inviting charities from across the UK to compete against one another in fundraising efforts. Launched in September, the Crowdfunding Challenge 2012 NCVO has pitted ten UK charities to better engage their communities and supporters as well as learn about how crowdfunding is revolutionising fundraising for the third sector here in the UK.

The challenge is operating in partnership with Buzzbnk, the London based crowdfunding platform that connects potential financiers with project owners for a variety of charitable and social projects. Other supporters of the challenge include; CAN Impact, an organisation that offers business support in social enterprise; Sho-net Systems provider of cloud based computer operations, and Anne Strachan of CrowdfundUK dedicated to providing information, resources and support on the use of crowdfunding within the third sector.  

So many organisations are looking to change how they raise money, especially those who have been reliant on grants. This challenge is a great way to generate learning and resources for charities while having lots of fun and raising money for some great causes. - Ros Jenkins, NCVO

Participating charities use the Buzzbnk platform to raise money through crowdfunding, and have until November to reach their funding targets. The venture is aimed at engaging communities as well learning and experimenting with the crowdfunding process. Projects featured in the challenge include;

• Latch (Leeds) -  using unemployed volunteers the project hopes to raise funds to help refurbish an empty house to create a home for a homeless family.
• Gateshead Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) - one of many organisations hit by austerity measures, the CAB hope to raise funds for a self-help touch screen console enabling full access to information and resources to help people tackle their problems.
• Aston Mansfield (Newham, London) - a sleep over project for children from deprived areas, to help build their social and emotional developments whilst giving parents some respite. 

Throughout the challenge,  NCVO will be monitoring the participants' progress bringing them together to share their knowledge at the organisation's Sustainable Funding conference to be held in November. The charity that displays the most learning and sharing during the challenge will be awarded £1,000 by CAN Impact. Click here for more information and a full list of the participating charities.

Image Credit; liewcf 

Crowdfunding Bristol's Community Bike Cafe

Whether it be as a means of transport or to keep physically fit, cycling is enjoying something of a renaissance in the UK. This revived interest in pedal power has particularly taken hold in Bristol making it the first cycling city, which has inspired an idea for a community cafe for cyclists. The project, Roll For The Soul, aims to provide a cafe and social hub for cyclists, not only serving quality refreshments but acting as a one stop resource centre to promote and support cycling in the city. The project has turned to crowdfunding to help raise some of the necessary funds, through the UK based platform Crowdfunder.

Roll For The Soul (RFTS) is the idea of Rob Wall, a former lecturer in transport psychology (for which  he also has a PhD) and project manager for Sustrans, the UK's leading charity for promoting alternative day to day travel which includes cycling, which due to the rise in fuel costs as well as concerns for the environment is becoming increasingly popular. As well as financial and environmental concerns, the recent surge in cycling has in part been driven by a need to become physically fit inspired by success of British cyclists in pro-racing events such as the Tour de France and the London 2012 Olympics. 

As well as a cafe or resting stop for weary cyclists, serving quality Fair Trade refreshments, RFTS main aim is to support and promote cycling in Bristol, by providing a plethora of resources which include, repairs service, workshop tutorials and skill sharing as well as limited sale of refurbished bicycles and accessories. The hub will also welcome non cyclists in an effort to promote cycling as fun, healthy, and inexpensive, answering questions and offering support where need. It will essentially be a place cyclists can call their own, and completely non-profit orientated with any surplus revenue going towards promoting cycling in the city working with various organisations.

The project needs £90,000 to cover working capital as well as year one operational costs, of which only £12,000 will be sought through crowdfunding to help pay for kitchen equipment, seating, and cash registers. The project features on the platform Crowdfunder, based in Exeter. Those who donate will receive an array of rewards which include an assortment of RFTS merchandise such as postcards, pin buttons, T-shirts and exclusive prints, as well as an invitation to the opening party with food and drink provided.For those who donate £300 or more, a life time membership offering 10% discount along with a promise to be treated like royalty. The campaign has just under 40 days to raise the necessary funds and to date has received £5,500 in donations. 

For more information and to make a donation click here to visit the project's Crowdfunder page.

Image Credit; tejvanphotos

Crowdfunding Helps with Community Affected by Aurora Shootings

After  hearing reports of the shootings at a cinema in Aurora Colorado, two local entrepreneurs set up a crowdfunding campaign for a relief fund. Roger Toennis and Alex Montoya approached chose the platform START.ac to help raise funds to help victims' families and survivors recover from a devastating attack that shocked a nation and the world. 

On Friday 20th July 2012 a gunman walked into Century Cinema in Aurora Colorado, during a screening of The Dark Knight Rises. The gunman opened fire killing 12 people and leaving 50 others seriously injured. Since then police arrested 24 year old James Holmes and has appeared in court accused of the shootings. As the authorities begin to build their case against Holmes and other begin the debate on revising gun control legislation, those affected try to come terms with aftermath. For Toennis and Montoya the crowdfunding campaign is one close to home since they are both residents with Montoya having been raise not far from the cinema where the shootings occurred. 

The Aurora Relief Fund aims to raise $20,000 within 60 days. The funds will be used to help with the cost of medical and travel expenses for survivors, as well as the cost of of building memorials. With the exception of processing fees, all funds raised will go to the community affected and START.ac will not be taking their usual percentage. 

"I am happy to help raise money for such a good cause. I hope that this effort helps the injured, and the families of those who were taken. Our team members were some of the project's first supporters." - Rod Turner, Co-founder and CEO START.ac

START.ac was launched in May 2012 with the goal of changing the face of crowdfunding by blending commercial projects with altruistic campaigns. The Aurora Relief Fund is part of the revolutionary changes START.ac looked to bring about. For more information and make a donation click here to visit the Aurora Relief Fund campaign page.

Image Credits; Beverly & Pack

[Gazette Profile] New Platform Paves Way for Jewish-Centric Crowdfunded Projects

Whilst two platforms already operate to provide crowdfunding services for Jewish projects, a recently launched site, Jewcer has already helped raise significant sums taking over the mantle of helping Jewish projects find a voice and financial support through the power of the crowd.

Jewcer was founded by five friends Ziv Ben Tzour, Moriya Blumenfeld,  Amir Give'on, Naomi Leight, and Shira Shimoni, having identified a gap in Jewish-centric crowdfunding when similar platforms appeared to be dormant. After pooling their own money together to fund the site, Jewcer was launched in March 2012. The idea behind the platform was inspired at an event hosted by BINA, the young professional division of the Israeli Leadership Council aimed to help better connect local Jewish-Americans and Israelis with Israeli focused foster programs. The Jewcer team believe Jewish crowdfunding can take connectivity a step further by enabling Jewish and Israeli communities to get their peers more involved and to make donations to vital projects through crowdfunding.

Any project with a strong Jewish connection can be submitted for consideration to be posted on Jewcer for funding. Although the founders intended to target a US based young cosmopolitan market, Jewcer will accept any Jewish project from around the world with work under way to better facilitate international transactions. The platform operates the traditional all or nothing model which aims to motivate project owners to work harder in convincing the crowd their project is worthy of funding. 

"Our personal mission with Jewcer is to change the way projects get funded in the Jewish community and in Israel — basically connecting people to projects, connecting people to people.”  - Naomi Leight, Co-founder Jewcer

Since launching, Jewcer has already helped various projects reach and even exceed their funding target, raising overall the sum of nearly $40,000 from over 500 donors. Projects that will come to fruition thanks to crowdfunding include a film entitled The Hummus Wars, a comedy tour that will raise money for charity whilst helping to promote a more positive image of Israel, a program that aims to combine biblical readings with Yoga exercises, and a Jewish brew pub and performance venue. One project that is gaining prominence is the Israeli Ambassador Program aimed at helping teenagers to become more knowledgeable about Israel and go on to act as ambassadors in the positive promotion of Israel focusing on US/Israeli relations. The project has already been funded with 22 days remaining. 

For more information click here to visit the Jewcer platform.

Image Credits; Jewcer (Copyright; All Rights Reserved)

FundaGeek Launch Scientific Research & Development Portal

FundaGeek, the crowdfunding platform specialising in helping technological innovations and scientific research obtain funding, has launched a new portal aimed at helping scientific research and development projects. The portal will provide vital guidance and resources for scientific projects looking to crowdfunding as an alternative source to traditional methods. 

Funding for scientific research and development projects is traditionally sought by way of government grants or discretionary grants from wealthy philanthropists. Since there are only limited numbers of grants available at any one time, competition for such funding is fierce and once awarded can betime consuming. FundaGeek's newest portal, Crowdfunding for Scientific Research, provides a means of getting a project off the ground until such time as further funding can be sought. The portal is open to scientists and educators at all levels including undergraduates and graduate students from universities and research institutions.

We are very excited about the launch of our new research portal as one of our early goals for our crowdfunding platform consistently has been to help science and basic research. We are very committed to the global science community. - Daniel D. Gutierrez, CEO FundaGeek

Whether the project focuses on physical & life sciences, engineering, social sciences or health and education, any such project can seek funding through the portal. Project owners are given resources and help to launch and run a successful crowdfunding campaign. These include a special FAQ section with various pointers and tips, a blog for researchers to provide regular updates, and comprehensive submission guidelines. In addition, two projects will be selected from the site's catalogue that will feature on the portal based on their compelling nature and success with the crowdfunding model.

Unlike commercial projects, those submitted through the portal do not follow the all or nothing crowdfunding model therefore the project does not need to reach a funding target. The portal refines the focus of FundaGeek's dedication to helping scientific research projects. Crowdfunding cannot replace the grant system but can supplement the funding needed to get the project started, making crowdfunding ideal for new classes of projects such as outreach programmes that are often subject to delays.

Image Credits; RDECOM

[Gazette Profile] Changing the Crowdfunding Model with START.ac

Crowdfunding continues to grow exponentially with more platforms offering resources and support, as well as governments passing laws to make it more accessible. Both private sector businesses and third sector organisations are benefiting from the support of the crowd. A new platform, START.ac launched on 15th May 2012, aims to change the current crowdfunding model that will  blend commercial projects with altruistic goals. 

START.ac was founded by Rod Turner, a seasoned entrepreneur who played a key role in the formation of highly successful start-ups including software developers Symantec (brainchild of Norton Antivirus software) and the popular search engine AskJeeves. Over the last year or so Rod has called upon his extensive knowledge to develop a new crowdfunding platform aimed at helping start-up businesses and technological ventures. The platform offers an assortment of unique features which include;

• The Inside Track TM enables funders to engage with projects they support
• CrowdAudition TM encourages the START.ac TM community to get involved offering feedback on projects up for submission as well as their selection
• START.ac TM offers a mentoring programme for project owners offering guidance and support from seasoned entrepreneurs and market leaders
• CrowdAccelerator TM benefits funded projects with continued dedicated involvement from the mentors
• STARTBusinessRewards TM offers rewards to project supporters based on company milestones.

The site's biggest addition however is the altruistic model aimed at supporting worthy causes. Project drivers looking for funding are generally charged 5% of their funding target, operating on the all or nothing model, for commercial projects but no charge will be made for non-profit ventures. Users can also opt to pay 6% of the funds raised of which 1% will be placed in the Pay it Forward Fund, with 25% of the total funds being allocated to the Pay it Forward Foundation and 75% to charities as voted by members. In the event of a large scale disaster such as a tsunami or earthquake special projects can be set up free of charge to raise funds for any foundations best suited to helping with relief efforts. 

The VC model is outdated. Investments are highly concentrated in Silicon Valley and similar VC clubs at the expense of 90% of the start-up opportunity across the US and around the world. In addition, current crowdfunding platforms are too narrowly focused in scope and geography. START.ac will democratise the industry in a way that is not yet being addressed. - Rod Turner, Co-founder & CEO START.ac 

START.ac, with its evolutionary model looks set to change the future of crowdfunding. Prior to launch the site's Facebook page had already received over 10,000 followers and word quickly spread over other social media sites including LinkedIn, Google + and Twitter. The future for crowdfunding lies in START.ac's goal to make virtualized funds, advice and resources available to support up and coming entrepreneurs to realise their maximum potential. This goal to aide entrepreneurs at a time when the world's economies are still teetering on the blink is equal to START.ac's altruistic commitment to effectively help those less fortunate. 

New Crowdfunding Platform For Aspiring Authors

For aspiring writers with great ideas but frustrated by the traditional methods of the publishing industry, crowdfunding continues to offer a lifeline to publishing utopia. Joining the ranks of sites like Unbound and Emphas.is is Authrs.com  a new crowdfunding platform dedicated to helping aspiring authors on  the path to publication. The new platform promises to focus purely on crowdfunding the works of authors and writers with features to rival other platforms.

Authr.com was founded in 2011 by Erik Bowman, serial entrepreneur, consultant and author. With over 20 years experience of business startups, Erik brings his knowledge and skills of various aspects of multimedia, finance, and technology to this latest venture. Based in Redondo Beach California, Authr.com was established by Eric to help break the funding barriers that prevent aspiring authors from getting their works published. Whilst many authors have used crowdfunding to take them up to publishing glory, Authr.com differs from other platforms by promising to support the authors beyond fundraising and into pre-order and sales as their books move closer to publication.

"I’ve come across so many clients and friends who have always wanted to achieve their dream of writing a book one day. The biggest obstacle they seem to run into is funding." - Erik Bowman, Founder Authr.com

In addition to pre and post funding support, Authr.com differs from other platforms by refusing to take any percentage of funds raised. Users, instead pay a monthly fee and can test their first use of the service for free. The platform also enables authors to promote their projects through social media to encourage support and generate sales, as well as a QR codes service to add bonus interactive features to the authors' publications. 

Authr.com is all about supporting authors so those with projects in need of funding who have publishers already signed up can still use the service. The platform also features a dedicated publisher's co-branded author's page through which authors can be referred, and invites ghost writers, publishing and marketing professions to become the site's business partners.  

Image Credits; Joe Ross 

Clickworker Announces Significant Steps in Growth and Expansion

One of the leading providers of paid crowdsourcing, Clickworker has announced changes to its management team that looks set to help the company expand as a market leader. Clickworker has also reached a significant milestone in the growth of its community of registered users potentially increasing the speed and quality of paid crowdsourcing services.

Clickworker has appointed Marc Ahr as the new company's Managing Director, effective from the beginning of April. Marc will be working with Christian Rozsenic, and together are responsible for pooling and utilising their expertise in sales, marketing and technology to accelerate the company's growth. Marc will bring his experience as Mobile Messaging Director for Berlin based  technology and media development leader YOC AG to the team, specifically in the areas of sales and product management. 

"The paid crowdsourcing approach fits in the globalised and networked working environment. The clickworkers are neither location nor time-bound, and can schedule work and free time according to their individual needs. For companies the use of crowdsourcing means overcoming the limitations of schedules, space or personnel. I am delighted to be part of a company whose business model not only focuses on the here and now, but is future-oriented instead." Marc Ahr, Managing Director, Clickworker

 In addition to expanding the company's management team, Clickworker has seen its community of registered users rise to 200,000 worldwide. The so-called clickworkers carry out micro-jobs for customers in wide variety of sectors including tagging, categorization, translation and web research. One of the benefits of crowdsourcing projects is the size and skill set of the knowledgeable and able crowd, high volumes of work can be carried out quickly. With a continually increasing community of micro-workers, Clickworker can process large orders speedily, virtually in real time, with high quality results. 

Image Credits; Daily Sunny

Help Durex Crowdsource a Cover for Their Naked Box

A young person's first sexual experience should be memorable, fun but most importantly safe, something that Durex are eager to promote. With the subject of safe sex still considered a little embarrassing for young people Durex's crowdsoucing campaign calls on the crowd to cover their "naked box" with a fun and innovative design.

Recently Durex carried out their Global Sex Survey which revealed that of the estimated 120 million young people per year having sex for the first time, only half of them actually use a condom for protection. Condoms are vital for safer sex, ensuring better protection, not only against unwanted pregnancies, but more importantly to prevent the transmission of STIs and AIDS. The survey also showed that young people still find talking about safe sex and purchasing condoms to be embarrassing. 

The Durex Naked Box Global Design Contest is inviting participants to get involved, by submitting a design that will feature on their latest soon to be launched condom package. The only requirements are for the design to be fun, innovative and exciting. Contestants can compose and upload their designs using their own software or visit the campaign's Facebook page for access to their  "Naked Tools". The closing date for submissions is 17th April 2012. 

From the submission 12 finalists will be selected to have their designs presented to a judging panel who will select the grand prize winner. Sitting on the panel will be MTV executive director Georgia Arnold, urban graffiti artist Smash137, professional snowboarder Silvia Muller and Chinese graphic designer Liu Zhizhi. They will be joined by Sue Daun, Worldwide Head of Brand Experience at the Brand Union, Durex’s Design agency. Each finalist will be awarded an iPad as well as a Durex goodie bag. The Grand Prize Winner will receive £2,000 as well as the opportunity to work the Durex design team, finalise the winning design before it is released.  

Durex hopes that the campaign will break down the barriers of embarrassment and get young people around the world talking about the necessity of using condoms and the practise of safe sex. The campaign also looks to make purchasing Durex products fun and accessible without that shy awkward feeling. So if you think have the winning design then visit the Durex Facebook page for details of the competition, as well as to access the necessary tools, and even vote on other submissions.

Beta Testing for UK Crowdfunding Platform Completed

Only four months since it was launched and already Bloom VC has much to celebrate. Today the Scottish based crowdfunding enterprise announced that beta testing for the platform has concluded, with plans to grow and enhance the platform for project owners and monetary donors alike. 

Bloom VC (venture catalyst) was founded by portfolio entrepreneur Amanda Boyle and Journalist & entrepreneur Michelle Rodger, with a goal to pool their vast knowledge to help budding entrepreneurs, businesses, and third sector groups effectively use crowdfunding to raise the necessary money for their projects or enterprise.The platform was designed and build by the award team at Everyone, and hosted by Bloom VC's technology partners VPS.NET.  

Prior to launching Bloom VC had already established itself as a crowdfunding leader by establishing a crowdfunding clinic at last year's New Start Scotland Exhibition. The clinic was open to business of all sizes and markets, helping them to better understand how crowdfunding could help them grow during these tough economic times. The beta testing has proven invaluable in helping Bloom VC to grow into a workable crowdfunding platform.

“We’ve had great input from our users and it’s helped us to create a platform that’s intuitive to navigate and well-integrated with the social networks essential to help spread the word and ask for support for projects" - Amanda Boyle Co-founder and CEO Bloom VC

Completing the beta testing is a remarkable achievement for the founders of Bloom VC which can be added to other landmark achievements. Recently Bloom VC helped Scottish student Kevin Pickering raise much needed funds for his short crime film Wake Up Call. The campaign was successful as not only did it reach its target within four days but went on to raise 46% more by the 30 day deadline. Bloom VC  currently has over thirty projects in the pipeline which include games, apps, and film projects. Visit the website for more information. 

Image Credits; Steven De Polo

DesignCrowd to Provide Exclusive Crowdsourced Designs to Australian Businesses

Australian based crowdsourced design platform, DesignCrowd have announced the launch of a new service provision exclusively for local businesses and designers. The new website will enable Australian businesses to exclusive court the skills of Australian designers. This is a unique initiative within the community of crowdsourcing service providers which generally offer their services globally. 

Based in Sydney, Australia, DesignCrowd was launched in 2008 and has since become one of the world'd leading providers of crowdsourced designs. Like it's contemporaries such as 99Designs, enables customers to post design projects onto the site. DesignCrowd's community of designers then submit their work and the customer chooses the preferred design. The platform's work spans 159 countries with a community of over 60,000 designers. The international success of DesignCrowd has put Australia on the crowdsourcing map.

Australians have been early adopters and heavy users of crowdsourcing but they also like to support local industry. Our new service will let Aussie businesses combine the benefit of crowdsourcing with the talent of the Australian design community. Clients in Sydney will be able to post a project on DesignCrowd and get 50-plus designs from designers in Melbourne to Mackay. If they want to they can also get designs from designers in places like Mumbai and Miami. - Alec Lynch, CEO DesignCrowd

The new service was launched in response to customer demands from customers for work to be sourced from their favourite local designers. Now Australian businesses will have the opportunity to engage the services of local talent, thus supporting their nation's design industry with purported annual value of over four billion dollars. The company hopes to increase its already 60,000 strong community with more local designers in order to offer more local businesses extensive choice through its new service. 

The last quarter has proved a challenging yet fruitful one for DesignCrowd, at a time when austerity measures and the recession continue to take their toll. In addition to securing three million dollars in capital investment, and acquiring the US owned Brandstack, DesignCrowd have also announced the appointment of Anthony Glenning, pioneer of Google Drawings to the company board.

Image Credits; Chad Magiera

Devon Film Maker Crowdfunding Latest Project

Despite the UK government calling for British filmmakers to produce Hollywood-esque commercial films it seems independent filmmakers are ignoring the call. More and more independent films are hoping crowdfunding will see their stories come to life. The latest is a short film from Devon based film maker Tony Webber, founder of Rockfall Films who is looking to raise funds through the crowdfunding platform IndieGoGo.

Tom is the story of a thirty-something male whose girlfriend is about to meet his family for the first time. The film reflects on how the couple first met leading up to the inevitable meeting but with an unexpected conclusion. It is an emotional drama focussing on loss and loneliness which Tony believes will resonate with the audience.

Funds raised will be used to cover costs for the production and Tony is looking to raise £5,500. These include accomodation and costs, hiring of cast and crew, equipment hire and post production.

I'd also like to engage the services of a casting director and go after a cast of named actors. Raising the money would hekp me do this. - Tony Webber

The project, looking to raise funds through IndieGoGo, has just under a month to reach its funding target. In exchange for a donation investors will be rewarded with acknowledgements and thanks, DVD and Blu Ray copies of the film, limited edition merchandise, and invitations to exclusive screenings. The rewards depend on the amount pledged and for higher value investments Associate/Executive producer credits will be awarded. To support this project click here to visit the IndieGoGo funding page.

Image Credits; Fiverlocker

UK Steampunk Movie Looks For Crowdfunding Support - UPDATE!!!

Since the 19th December 2011 when the Gazette posted this story, the project did not reach it's funding target. However undeterred from this setback the team at Seraphim Pictures have turned to IndieGoGo in the hopes of raising the necessary to funds to see their dream project become a reality. Good luck from the Gazette.

The genre of steampunk science fiction has enjoyed a little resurgence this past year with the 3D reboot of Alexander Dumas' Three Musketeers, and Martin Scorsese's latest feature Hugo, based on the book by Brian Selznick. A new independent film, Nova Initia looks set to help with the steampunk revival set within a dystopia world, whilst challenging the current stable of big budget Hollywood remakes and sequels. The makers of the film are looking to raise part of the budget through the crowdfunding. 

Nova Initia is set in a desolate world of crumbled cities and split factions trying to make sense of their scorched earth. Amidst the desolation, a young woman is on the run but she does not know why or nor have any clue as to her identity, carrying a satchel that cannot be lost nor fall into the hands of her pursuers. Cardiff writer/director Dale Jordan Johnson, along with producers James Morgan and Daniel Lyddon of the Welsh film production company Seraphim Pictures, hope to present steampunk to mainstream audiences with original stories, fresh characters and whole new worlds to explore. To help bring the world of steampunk to life, the services of The Little Steampunk Shop will be employed, developing props for the film, which will also feature as rewards for donations.

The project needs $10,000 to help cover location costs, insurance premiums, set design & construction as well as wardrobe and catering. In exchange for a monetary pledge, donors can expect various rewards including, acknowledgements & credits, various official merchandise, set visits and premier invitations, as well as DVD and BLU-RAY copies of the film. So if you want to support this steampunk adventure then visit the project's funding page. 

Image Credit Used with kind permission of Seraphim Pictures Copyright 2011 
- All Rights Reserved.  

[Interview] Indie Film Makers Share Crowdfunding Success

Recently two independent film makers have enjoyed the benefits of crowdfunding giants Kickstarter and IndieGoGo in a bid to see their projects reach completion. Actor, screenwriter, and director Jayce Bartok raised $20,000 to continue filming his drama Tiny Dancer through IndieGoGo, whilst Andrew Berends, thanks to Kickstarter raised $16,000 to complete his project Delta Boys. 

The two film makers were recently interviewed by New York based creative digital agency Flightpath. Here they share their experiences of how the process empowered them yet presented its fair share of challenges;

Jayce Bartok: It was the hardest thing we’ve ever done. For those 60 days, it was just insane.

Andy Berends: Yeah. It’s awesome in a lot of respects, but I wouldn’t call it fun. For me, the first thing was you have to pretty much put aside your pride. 

For the full interview please click here.

Image Credit; Tahmid Munazâ„¢

Crowdfunding The Occupied Times

As the global Occupy movement continues to grow, encouraging debate, calling for change, as well as angering the establishment, keeping track of relevant news and opinions has daunting. The Occupied Times, a free newspaper that publishes news and information regarding the movement, has taken up the mantle for Occupy London, with the first six issues proving to very popular. The paper is now turning to UK crowdfunding platform 0sponsume, to fund further issues whilst finding a way to make the publication more sustainable.

The Occupied Times, whilst not the official voice of the movement, does provide a platform for those within the movement to relay news and information, as well as offering entertaining and insightful views. The paper's mission is principally to provide individuals involved in the movement and passing members of the public with the latest updates as well as provoke debate over the issues spurring the movement. It was originally funded from donations made to the sustain the Occupy movement, with the first issue costing £200 to produce and subsequent five issues at £350 each. 

In order to become sustainable, the publication needs more funding which is proving to be a drain on the movement's limited purse. The goal is to raise £2,000 to fund a further four issues of the Occupied Times, and work to increase its size and distribution to 16 pages twice monthly. Any remaining funds will be donated to the Occupy movement. In return for supporting the project, investors will receive an assortment of rewards including thank yous & acknowledgements, copies of the paper, and an original copy of the historic first edition (currently on  display at the Museum of London). 

To date the project has secured over 70% of the target, with just over a week remaining. Whilst the project will accept donations from all over the world, it will only be able to post rewards to UK investors. The Occupy movement continues to grow becoming a thorn in the side of both financial giants and political leaders alike. With your help, the Occupied Times could play an integral role of maintain the flow of news and insights on the issues of the movement. To find pledge your support, and generally learn more about the the Occupied Times (even download a copy) visit the project's sponsume funding page.

Image Credit; The Occupied Times

Renowned Photojournalist Looks to Crowdfunding for Continued Investigations of Big Tobacco

If you are smoker have you ever considered the amount of work and resources involved in producing the humble cigarette? This was the question that Italian photojournalist Rocco Rorandelli asked himself prompting a long term investigation into the tobacco industry. To continue with the project, Rorandelli has turned away from traditional sources, and has embraced crowdfunding, via emphas.is, a platform specifically geared to help with funding visual journalism initiatives.

After having lost his father to cancer which was brought on by smoking, Rorandelli (a smoker himself at the time) began to wonder just how much work went into producing cigarettes. In 2008, Rorandelli began his investigation and travelled to Asia where he learned that China and India are the biggest producers and consumers of tobacco. Rorandelli also visited Indonesia which has no restrictive regulations over tobacco advertising. Sporting and music events enjoy sponsorship by tobacco companies targeting young consumers.

Rorandelli's work has attracted international acclaim and featured on many notable publications such as Newsweek, L'Espresso, New York Times, and National Geographic magazine. He was also awarded a grant from the Fund for Investigative Journalism to document the use of child labour in tobacco production. 

In continuing his work, Rorandelli plans on travelling to various countries next year including the US. America's association with tobacco is particularly prevalent as it is linked culturally to the image of the Marlboro Man, and 2012 will mark 400 years since the first American tobacco plantation was established. Rorandelli needs $8,786 to fund his investigation including, manufacturing, sales & marketing, and consumption. Once complete, the findings will be compiled into a book, travelling exhibition, and even an ipad application.

So far $2,517 has been raised and in return for a donation, investors  will be granted an assortment of awards from personal thank you's to a personalised editions of the book, even inclusion of the company logo for large corporate donations. You can view the latest chapters on the project's Picturetank page, and if you believe this a project worthy of support then visit Rorandelli's funding page.

Image Credit; Dany13