Supporting Creators, Protecting Backers
Crowdfunding is about bringing creative ideas to life together. We work hard to create a safe, transparent environment where creators and backers can connect with confidence.
Understanding Crowdfunding Risk
When you back a project, you're supporting a creative vision that hasn't been fully realized yet. While we work to verify creators and projects, crowdfunding involves inherent risk. Projects may face delays, changes, or in rare cases, may not deliver as planned. IndieCrowdfund is not responsible for reward fulfillment or refunds.
How We Build Trust
Our multi-layered approach helps ensure a safe and positive experience for everyone.
Project Review
Every project is reviewed by our team before going live. We verify that projects meet our guidelines and that creators have a realistic plan for delivery.
Creator Verification & Due Diligence
New creators must provide a government-issued photo ID and a legitimate business filing from their state's Secretary of State. We verify all linked social media accounts, search other crowdfunding platforms for previous campaigns, and validate fulfillment history by reviewing backer reviews and comments. Creators with three or more unfulfilled campaigns on any platform, or any campaign more than one year past delivery, are automatically disqualified. All findings are documented internally.
Fraud Detection
Our AI-powered systems monitor for suspicious activity, protecting backers from potential scams and bad actors.
Clear Guidelines
Our comprehensive terms of service and creator guidelines establish clear expectations for all parties.
Backer Protections
We've built safeguards to help protect your interests as a backer.
All-or-Nothing Funding
You're only charged if the project reaches its funding goal. If it doesn't succeed, your payment method is never charged.
Pledge Management
You can modify or cancel your pledge at any time before the campaign ends. After funding, you can update your reward selection and shipping address.
Direct Communication
Stay connected with creators through project updates, comments, and direct messaging. Transparency is key to a successful campaign.
Project Updates
Creators are required to post regular updates on their progress. You'll always know where your backed project stands.
Creator Responsibilities
Creators who launch on IndieCrowdfund agree to these commitments.
Honest Representation
Creators must accurately represent their projects, including realistic timelines, budgets, and delivery expectations.
Regular Communication
Creators commit to keeping backers informed with regular updates, especially if there are delays or changes to the project.
Fulfillment Commitment
Creators are obligated to make a good faith effort to deliver rewards as promised. If they can't, they must explain why and work toward resolution.
Transparent Use of Funds
Funds raised must be used for the project as described. Creators should be prepared to account for how funds are spent.
Dispute Resolution
If you have concerns about a project, here's how to seek resolution.
Contact the Creator
Start by reaching out to the creator directly through the project page or messaging system. Most issues can be resolved through direct communication.
Allow Time for Response
Give the creator reasonable time to respond (7-14 days). Remember that creators are often working on fulfillment and may not respond immediately.
Submit a Report
If you can't resolve the issue directly, submit a formal report through our support system. Include all relevant details and documentation.
Platform Investigation
Our trust and safety team will review your report, contact the creator, and work toward a resolution.
Important Limitations
IndieCrowdfund is a platform that connects creators with backers. We are not a store and do not guarantee fulfillment. While we can investigate reports and take action against creators who violate our terms, we cannot force refunds or guarantee delivery. Backing a project is supporting a creative endeavor, not purchasing a guaranteed product.
Prohibited Content
We do not allow projects that include:
Common Questions
What happens if a project doesn't deliver?
Creators are legally obligated to make a good faith effort to deliver rewards. If they can't, they must communicate with backers and either offer alternatives or explain how funds were spent. While we investigate reports and can suspend creators who violate terms, IndieCrowdfund cannot guarantee refunds or delivery.
Can I get a refund?
Before a campaign ends, you can cancel your pledge at any time and won't be charged. After the campaign funds successfully, refunds are at the discretion of the creator. Some creators offer refunds; others don't. Check the project's FAQ or contact the creator directly.
How do you verify creators?
Our verification process is thorough and multi-layered. New creators must provide a government-issued photo ID and a legitimate business filing from their state's Secretary of State office. We log and verify all linked social media accounts. Our team searches other crowdfunding platforms (Kickstarter, Indiegogo, GoFundMe, etc.) to review previous campaign history, including backer reviews, comments, and fulfillment track records. We contact creators directly when concerns arise. Creators with three or more unfulfilled campaigns on any platform, or any campaign more than one year past delivery, are automatically disqualified. All findings are documented internally. Additionally, creators must connect a valid payment account through Stripe Connect (identity, SSN, US bank account) or DivinityCoin. We support two PCI-compliant payment processors — Stripe (Level 1 PCI) and DivinityCoin. All payment data is encrypted and we never store credit card numbers on our servers. Verified creators display a badge on their profile.
What if I suspect fraud?
Report the project immediately using the report button on the project page, or contact our trust and safety team at trust@indiecrowdfund.com. Include specific concerns and any evidence you have. We investigate all reports promptly.