Microfundo Brings Crowdfunding to the Music Halls
Samantha Beinhacker
Director of Member Services, Jewish Funders Network
This week, we introduce you to Microfundo. Headquartered in Boston, Microfundo is founded on a simple premise: to change the way the world funds music. Microfundo has extended crowfunding to music, with the goal of turning the hit-driven music industry system on its head and engaging fans to fund artists from around the world. The company’s rich social network of artists and fans also unites people by building greater cultural awareness and international economic development.
Microfundo’s method is to work with an artist who has an upcoming performance and host an exclusive release of their music – available for one day only at the bargain price of $1 – as a way to promote the upcoming show at a local venue. The resulting stampede gives the artist better earnings from a sold-out show, while proceeds from the exclusive one-day music sale go to a local youth music and dance education program.
Local fans can rally to support and promote a favorite artist (and many pay more than the $1 price). Fans get a great deal on an exclusive release and are actively involved in creating their own thriving music scene. The artist gets to play to a large audience. The local venue is able to put on a show with less risk. And a local youth music and dance program gets a boost in visibility and funding.
"Our goal is to use crowdfunding to build a conduit between artists and fans so that anyone can engage in bringing artists to perform from anywhere in the world," says founder and Chief Inspiration Officer, Brad Powell. "Who would’ve thought that we could bring the wisdom of crowds to music? We’re building a social enterprise that’s turning out to be a game changer in the music industry."
Can you think of other possibilities to harness crowdfunding for good?






















































