Kickstarter has announced the launch of the Kickstarter Culture Fund, a $1 million initiative marking the platform’s first direct investment in creative projects. The fund will support independent creators across arts, photography, dance, theater, film, fashion and music through direct contributions to their Kickstarter campaigns.
Selected recipients will receive a direct pledge to their live Kickstarter campaign, with pledge amounts varying based on the project and level of support needed. Recipients may also receive promotional support across Kickstarter’s owned and operated channels, with particularly boundary-pushing projects eligible for additional campaign guidance and promotional support.
To be eligible, projects must fall within one of the qualifying categories and must have a Kickstarter campaign that is either live or in draft with at least a main image and description. Projects must launch by December 31, 2026, and applicants must meet Kickstarter’s standard location requirements.
Applying is straightforward. Creators prepare their Kickstarter project, confirm eligibility, submit a Culture Fund application and, if selected, launch their campaign to receive a contribution from the fund.
Kickstarter is also expanding the fund’s reach through partnerships with organizations that share its commitment to independent creators. The first funding partner is Creative Scotland, whose Creative Scotland Forward Fund will support eligible Scotland-based creators with funding and resources to bring their projects to life on Kickstarter.
Applications are open now — CLICK HERE TO APPLY. Creators can apply and find additional resources including the Creator Resources Hub, Kickstarter Partners directory and Kickstarter Learning Lab at kickstarter.com.