Pick the Right Month of the Year to Launch Your Crowdfunding Campaign

Timing can make or break your crowdfunding success.

Cosma Zhang

December 25, 2023

Launching a Kickstarter project is an exhilarating endeavor, but every creator wonders if timing plays a role in its success. Timing can be a subtle art, capable of influencing the fate of crowdfunding campaigns. In this blog post, we will explore the relationship between launch and end months and the success rates of Kickstarter projects. As we explore the data, remember that while these trends exist, individual project characteristics and marketing strategies must also be considered. 

Exploring Launch Months

When it comes to the month of launch, the data showcases some interesting patterns. Projects launched in January, February, or April have achieved significantly higher success rates. Meanwhile, July and August have proven to be more challenging months for Kickstarter campaigns, with lower success rates. Keep in mind, though, that holiday months like November and December may exhibit a slight drop in success rates, possibly due to the distractions of Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Deciphering End Months

Turning our attention to the end months, we discover another layer of timing dynamics. Campaigns that conclude in February, March, or May have experienced remarkable success, surpassing expectations. Conversely, the months of August, September, and December pose more challenges in achieving desired outcomes. Understanding the potential implications of holiday seasons on success rates warrants further investigation.

The Fascinating Anomalies

Examining the data closely, intriguing anomalies emerge. By eliminating specific months from the analysis, we discovered that beyond these significant months, other months showed little variation in success rates. This suggests that success rates across those months may not differ significantly, implying a potential chance factor at play. Although variations persist to a certain extent, they may not be statistically considerable.

Unraveling the Context

Considering the interplay between Kickstarter success rates and external factors lends further context to the findings. Notably, success rates correlate with the U.S. academic calendar and popular holidays. The summer months seem to provide a conducive environment for project launches, as individuals, including students and teachers, have more time to dedicate to Kickstarter endeavors. As the academic year resumes, launch activity tapers off.

Moreover, observing the inverse correlation between the number of projects launched in a given month and success rates yields interesting insights. In crowded months, projects may compete for a limited pool of potential backers, impacting success rates. While this claim remains speculative, examining this correlation is essential for creators aiming to make informed decisions.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of timing can significantly enhance the success of Kickstarter projects. By examining the nuanced relationship between launch and end months, creators can make informed decisions and strategize for optimal outcomes. While these trends offer valuable guidance, remember to consider the unique characteristics of your project, execute effective marketing strategies, and target your audience strategically. Unlock the potential of Kickstarter success through the power of timing!