Introducing the Pre-Launch Editor: A New Feature for Storytelling

Earlier this year, we announced that we’re focused on a suite of new product developments to enhance the overall crowdfunding experience at every stage of the creators' and backers' journey from project draft to fulfillment. Today, we are unveiling our first new advancement to the pre-launch crowdfunding experience on Kickstarter. 

You never have a second chance to make a first impression, and the first impression of your crowdfunding campaign starts at your pre-launch page. 

In this guide, we’ll show you how to create a pre-launch page that will help you attract backers and reveal the suite of new features available to new campaigns hosted on Kickstarter. So, let’s get started and take your Kickstarter campaign to the next level.

The Value of a Pre-Launch Page 

Being able to share your project before launching is a vital step when planning your promotion strategy. As a creator, you can set up a pre-launch page for your project to share the essential information necessary to start building hype for your campaign and present a direct call-to-action (CTA) for potential backers to be notified when your project has launched. 

If you wait until your crowdfunding campaign is live to begin promotion, it’s most likely too late. Driving pre-launch traffic and having backers sign up to be notified allows you to push the launch button more confidently.

After submitting your project for review and approval, you can set up your pre-launch page by heading to the Promotion tab of your project editor. After you’ve confirmed your project URL, you'll be prompted to activate it. Your project URL will be your pre-launch page URL until you’ve launched your campaign. 

When browsing our Discover pages, pre-launch pages will be searchable alongside all other projects. You can also view all pre-launch pages under the “Upcoming Projects” section. We recommend setting up and sharing your pre-launch page at least one week before your intended launch date.

How to Craft a Pre-Launch Page

Learn how to leverage your pre-launch page effectively, transforming anticipation into success. With the right strategy, your project can achieve and even surpass its goals, turning your creative dreams into tangible realities.

Kickstarter Project Updates BlogKickstarter Staff

New Features Coming to Pre-Launch Page

Today, we’re announcing a few new pre-launch tools, including the Pre-Launch Editor, which are both designed to give you a significant head start in rallying support for your project. These tools are specifically created to help creators like you set up your campaign for success well before the official launch date.

NEW: Pre-Launch Editor

The Pre-Launch Editor is a powerful tool that allows you to customize your pre-launch page with compelling content. This feature enables you to create a visually appealing and informative page that teases your project and attracts potential backers. By sharing details about your upcoming campaign, you can spark interest and build a community of engaged followers. Using this editor, you can now add text, images, and even links to your pre-launch page to clearly convey the mission of your crowdfunding campaign.

Check out the Pre-Launch Editor in action today on BaristaMaker Milk Frother by DREO and The PNW Outdoor Cup Set by North Drinkware.

Here are some key features of the Pre-Launch Editor:

Customizable Content: Tailor your pre-launch page to reflect your project's unique aspects by using captivating images, engaging videos, and persuasive text to draw in potential backers with beloved features from our beloved revamped text editor.

Follower Engagement: Encourage visitors to follow your project. Followers who engage with your pre-launch page are more likely to convert into backers once your campaign goes live.

Community Building: Start building a community of interested supporters who are excited about your project. These early followers are crucial as they are 66% more likely to back your project compared to those who discover it during the live campaign.

New Redesigned Page Layout: Pre-launch pages now sport a refreshed, intuitive design that enhances your ability to present your project. This update ensures you can create a visually appealing page that engages and excites potential backers.

Leverage Kickstarter Automated Emails

One of the standout features of Kickstarter’s pre-launch tools is the integration of automated emails. These emails play a vital role in keeping your would-be backers engaged throughout your campaign. Here’s how they work:

Launch Update: Kickstarter’s automated emails start with a “Just Launched” notification to all your followers, creating a buzz and generating early support for your campaign. 

Support Reminders: As your campaign progresses, Kickstarter's automated reminder emails play a crucial role in driving conversions. Followers receive two reminders—48 hours and 8 hours before your campaign concludes—encouraging them to back your project before it’s too late. Additionally, if you enable Late Pledges, followers who haven’t yet converted will receive a notification, letting them know they still have an opportunity to support your project.

Launch with Confidence 

By utilizing the Pre-Launch Editor, you can build anticipation, gather a dedicated following, and refine your campaign strategy. The integration of automated emails ensures continuous engagement, increasing the likelihood of converting your followers into backers and provide a valuable opportunity for creators to set their campaigns up for success before the official launch. 

Embrace these tools to maximize your campaign’s potential and achieve your funding goals. With careful planning and strategic use our pre-launch features, here on Kickstarter, you can create a buzzworthy campaign that captures the attention and support of backers worldwide.