What determines the success and failure of environmental crowdfunding?

Journal article

Crowdfunding has emerged as a crucial mechanism for expanding financial accessibility, particularly for projects focused on sustainability. However, the success of foundation-based crowdfunding largely depends on trust and transparency. This study aims to investigate the role of these factors in influencing donor confidence and campaign success. Utilizing a mixed-method approach, the research combines qualitative and quantitative data analysis. The study was conducted on active crowdfunding campaigns within sustainability-focused foundations, employing surveys, interviews, and platform data analytics to assess stakeholder engagement, financial transparency, and campaign effectiveness. The findings reveal that transparent fund management significantly impacts donor trust, with campaigns demonstrating clear financial accountability attracting more sustained contributions. Additionally, the study identifies the importance of effective communication and measurable impact reporting in fostering a supportive crowdfunding ecosystem. The research provides actionable recommendations for foundation-based giving organizations and sustainable entrepreneurs to strengthen transparency and stakeholder involvement, ultimately enhancing donor confidence and community support for sustainability initiatives

Authors: Kubo, T; Veríssimo, D; Uryu, S; Mieno, T; MacMillan, D

• Publication status: Published
• Peer review status: Peer reviewed
• Publisher: Springer
• Journal: AMBIO: A Journal of the Human Environment
• Volume: 50
• Issue: 9
• Pages: 1659-1669
• Publication date: 2021-03-23
• DOI: 10.1007/s13280-021-01522-0
• EISSN: 1654-7209
• ISSN: 0044-7447
• Language: English
• Keywords: Political science; Computer science; Social media; Competition (biology); Marketing; World Wide Web; Business; Public relations