US crowdfunding hub NextGen Crowdfunding has launched a new platform to track crowdfunding opportunities on IndieGogo, in the wake of May’s legislation allowing even inexperienced investors to put money into start-ups.
IndieGogo, traditionally a rewards-based crowdfunding site, entered the equity crowdfunding market in November after securing a partnership with MicroVentures. Anyone can now invest capital in start-ups on Indiegogo in exchange for financial stakes in the companies. All four of Indiegogo’s initial equity crowdfunding campaigns have already met their funding goals and raised cumulatively over $445,000.
“Our mission has always been to make it easier for individuals to raise money for projects they are passionate about and this is the latest way we’re helping entrepreneurs access the financing they need while also giving backers the chance to invest in new companies,” said Indiegogo CEO David Mandelbrot.
“Since Indiegogo first launched we’ve wanted to offer these sort of investments, and we’re very excited to be officially giving the millions of people who visit our platform every month the chance to get involved with equity crowdfunding opportunities.”
To help potential investors keep track of investor commitments on IndieGogo, NextGen Crowdfunding launched Crowdfunding Watch. Dr. Richard Swart, Chief Strategy Officer at NextGen Crowdfunding, said of the launch:
“Indiegogo’s entrance into equity crowdfunding benefits the industry. Indiegogo has a built in base of millions of fans and investors when it comes to rewards-based crowdfunding who now have the chance to explore new equity crowdfunding opportunities on the platform.”
Aubrey Chernick, NextGen Crowdfunding’s CEO and Founder, commented:
“Because of Indiegogo’s entrance into equity crowdfunding, the public’s awareness and interest in equity crowdfunding could potentially increase.”
NextGen Crowdfunding has set itself up as the go-to place for those interested in equity crowdfunding activities and new crowdfunding directions, aiming to “support emerging businesses that are chasing the American Dream”.