Guides for creators
Straight answers to the questions creators ask most, with sources and dates so you know the numbers are current.
How Kickstarter works
All-or-nothing funding, fees, payouts and timelines, explained for creators.
ComparePledge managers compared
BackerKit, Gamefound, Kickstarter's own, Hive and PledgeBox: fees, features and who each suits.
PlatformsKickstarter alternatives
Gamefound, BackerKit, Indiegogo and more, and which one fits your project.
CompareKickstarter vs Indiegogo
Fees, funding models and audiences side by side, plus where GoFundMe fits.
CompareBackerKit vs Kickstarter
Launching on BackerKit Crowdfunding versus Kickstarter, honestly compared.
Free tools
Kickstarter fees calculator
See what Kickstarter, card processing and your pledge manager take, and the goal that covers your costs.
Launch checklist
Every step from idea to delivered rewards, in order. Tick things off as you go.
Shipping calculator
Turn postage quotes into fair shipping charges per region, plus a shipping table image for your page.
Prelaunch followers calculator
How many followers and emails you need before launch to hit your goal.
Reward price & tier planner
Price your core reward and check the margin on every tier.
Delivery date estimator
A realistic delivery month for your rewards, phase by phase.
Print run calculator
How many units to order, with spares, late pledges and price breaks.
Backer update templates
Copy-ready updates for launch day, stretch goals, delays and shipping.
Turn your numbers into a finished campaign page
The PledgeBird Page Builder lays out your Kickstarter page the way top campaigns in your category do: headers, reward cards, specs, stretch goals and shipping tables. Free to build.
Pick your category