Crafting an Impactful Kickstarter Press Release: A Guide to Boosting Your Project's Visibility

Your story serves as the driving force behind capturing the attention of journalists, bloggers, and reporters.

Echy Wong

January 2, 2024

In the world of crowdfunding, your story serves as the driving force behind capturing the attention of journalists, bloggers, and reporters. It's the narrative thread that, when skillfully woven into a press release, can transform your project's destiny. The press release becomes the vessel that propels your story into the hands of media publications, potentially catapulting your funding to new heights. In this guide, we will unravel the key components of crafting an effective Kickstarter press release.

The Format of a Kickstarter Press Release

A standard Kickstarter press release follows a specific format designed to convey crucial information to the target media. These key elements include:

  • Headline

The title of your announcement, the headline are the first point of contact with your audience. It should evoke curiosity, attract attention, and set the stage for the rest of the release.

  • Sub-headline

Expanding on the main headline, the sub-headline provides additional context, incorporating elements of the who, what, when, where, why, or how of your project.

  • Date, Location

Situated at the beginning of the press release, the date and location convey the timeliness of the news update and specify the region from which it originates.

  • Contact Information

Providing contact information at the top or bottom of the press release ensures easy access for journalists seeking more details about the story.

  • Story Quotes

Incorporating quotes from the founder, customers, or other relevant figures offers ready-to-use segments that writers can seamlessly integrate into their articles.

  • Images and Video

Although high-resolution images are rarely embedded in the press release itself, attaching them to the email sent to reporters provides a visual snapshot of the story. Links to videos may also be included.

  • Campaign Link or Website

The most critical link to include in your press release, it facilitates easy access for journalists to explore your project without unnecessary hassle.

  • Company Section

This section expands on your company's background, elucidating on what your company does and introducing the key players behind the news announcement.

Additional Tips:

Denoting the end of the press release, signals to ignore any information beyond this point.

For Immediate Release: Indicating that the journalist can publish the story immediately, though some may negotiate an embargo option for a specified date.

Press Release Length: Typically ranging from 300 to 500 words, press releases may be pasted into the body of an email or included as an attachment. Some networks also syndicate the text on media publications.

Improving Your Press Release

Social Proof

Social proof acts as a catalyst for capturing a journalist's interest. If your project has garnered praise from backers, received media coverage, and sparked strong emotions among your followers, it minimizes the perceived risk for journalists. Including social proof, such as social media metrics, endorsements, and notable reviews, strengthens your narrative and enhances the likelihood of media coverage.

Crafting a Compelling Story

Incorporating storytelling elements into your pitch elevates your project in the eyes of journalists. Utilize storytelling tips such as:

Conflict: Highlight the challenges your project addresses and the founder's journey in overcoming them.

Breakthroughs and Revelations: Showcase how your project represents a groundbreaking solution that the world has never seen before.

Reactions and Events: Keep the story dynamic by sharing how people are reacting online—whether it's outrage or awe.

Meaning and Beliefs: Go beyond profit motives and delve into the visionary aspects of your project. What kind of world does the founder envision?

By enveloping your message within a compelling story, you engage readers emotionally, surpassing the impact of purely logical information.

Demonstrating Credibility

To ensure your press release stands out, focus on demonstrating credibility early on. Strategies include:

Highlighting Awards: Showcase any accolades or recognition your project has received.

Mentioning Endorsements: Highlight endorsements from credible sources within your industry.

Using Statistics and Figures: Incorporate relevant data to support the legitimacy and impact of your project.

Demonstrating Expertise: Convey your team's expertise and experience in the field.

Getting past the initial credibility filter is crucial, as journalists are more likely to engage with releases that exude professionalism and credibility.