Open Calls

The Benefit of Launching an Open Call Campaign

Learn how Kickstarter’s Open Calls boost visibility, build connections, and bring your creative vision to life.

In the world of crowdfunding, standing out can be a challenge. That’s where Open Calls come in—a spotlight opportunity to align your project with a larger, themed movement that’s already capturing attention. Imagine being part of a collective buzz, a shared moment where creators and backers rally around a singular vision.

Whether you’re crafting a tabletop game, penning a gripping novel, or launching your first short film, participating in Open Calls offers benefits that go beyond mere funding. You gain visibility, join a passionate community, and ride the wave of shared excitement.

Let's explore how these campaigns can enhance your creative journey and guide you toward the best Open Call to apply for based on your creative practice.

Aligning Your Project with an Audience

Open Calls are organized around specific themes, each designed to celebrate a unique creative niche. These include everything from Micro May, which champions small-scale tabletop games, to Witchstarter, a bewitching October initiative spotlighting projects centered on magic and divination.

By aligning your project with a theme, you tap into an audience already primed to love what you’re offering. Take Zine Quest, for instance—a February call for indie RPG zines. This annual event draws a crowd of passionate backers eager to support bold, imaginative creators. For your RPG idea, this isn’t just an opportunity; it’s a moment.

Standing Out in the Crowd

When you launch during an Open Call, you’re not just another project. You’re part of a curated program, which often means increased support from our 23M+ backer community. Kickstarter highlights these campaigns in newsletters, social media, and on-site banners. That means more eyes on your project—and more potential backers.

For creators, this spotlight can be the difference between a modest launch and a viral success. Consider Make 100, the January Open Call where creators limit their rewards to exactly 100 rewards. This scarcity not only attracts attention but also encourages quick action from backers who don’t want to miss out.

Building a Community of Creators and Backers

Open Calls aren’t just about funding—they’re about forging connections. As a participant, you’re joining a community of like-minded creators who share your passion. This camaraderie often leads to collaboration, cross-promotion, and mutual support.

And let’s not forget the backers. By tapping into a themed event, you’re engaging an audience that shares your enthusiasm for the project’s focus. During Long Story Short, March’s celebration of short films, your cinematic masterpiece isn’t competing with other campaigns—it’s shining alongside them, creating a collective energy that benefits everyone.

Lowering the Barrier to Entry

For first-time creators, crowdfunding can feel daunting. Open Calls like Micro May are a perfect entry point. With its focus on micro games, this initiative encourages creators to think small but impactful. The lower production costs and manageable scope make it an ideal starting point.

Backers, too, find these campaigns appealing. Lower reward tiers allow them to support multiple projects, fostering a vibrant and diverse community. It’s a win-win: creators gain experience, and backers get to discover and champion fresh ideas.

Final Thoughts:

Launching an Open Call campaign isn’t just about funding—it’s about joining a movement, connecting with a community, and turning your creative vision into a reality. So, what are you waiting for?

Pick the theme that speaks to you, and take the leap. Your audience is out there, waiting to back your brilliance.

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