Whether it’s an illustration project showcasing the intricacies of growing up as an Asian-American woman, films that depict lives and experiences not often covered in mainstream media, or other artistic endeavors, these women are using their creative talents to tell stories — and encouraging other women to do so as well.
Check out these 5 women-led crowdfunding campaigns:
1. A Female-Friendly Creative Studio (via Kickstarter)
The Business: Broadspace is a Portland, Ore.-based women’s art and work collective. Launched this past July by area resident Amy Nieto, the space boasts multiple studios that can be rented at low rates by local female creators. Nieto says she wanted to forge a “safe, inclusive, and vibrant space for women to take the next steps in their lives, in both business, and the arts.” Now she wants to secure it for years to come. Rent increases have made finding affordable work environments difficult, which is why Nieto says it’s “necessary to take action now before artists are priced out of the city.”
The Money: The primary aim of this campaign — which seeks to raise $5,500 by or before Dec. 14 — is to get the lease on a prime piece of real estate. The remaining funds will go toward lighting, painting supplies, shelving and more.
2. A Day in Their Lives (via Indiegogo)
The Business: Director Aimiende Negbenebor Sela says her short film, “A Day In the Life of Who,” is “a story about hoping against hope.” Based on a feature-length movie bearing the same name, her film chronicles the experiences of a North Korean refugee who comes to the United States, only to have to travel back home in search of her brother after a death in the family. Thus, Sela — along with a diverse, mostly female production team — shine a spotlight on the universal nature of the human desire for connection.
The Money: Through this campaign, Sela hopes to pay for transportation for cast and crew members, catering costs, location rentals and more. In all, she hopes to raise $5,000, and has eight more days to do so. Because of Indiegogo’s Flexible Funding option, she will receive money whether or not she reaches her goal amount.
3. Illustrations About Growing Up Asian-American (via Kickstarter)
The Business: An Asian-American woman living in New York City, Felicia Lang is working to spread cultural awareness with her campaign, #100DayAsians. Using illustrations and stories, she gives followers insight into what it’s like to grow up as an Asian-American. Lang now hopes to turn her online work into a book including new written anecdotes. Her ultimate aim is to foster new understanding of people who have immigrant parents and who grew up in culturally diverse households.
The Money: Though her campaign ends Dec. 16, Lang has already exceeded her $2,500 goal. The creative work for the project is complete, so the funds will be used to print and ship the books — just in time for the holidays.
4. A Feature Film About ‘Otherness’ (via Kickstarter)
The Business: Over the last 3 years, director Catherine Eaton and her production team have been working to bring a film about “otherness” to life. The movie, “The Sounding,” was co-written by a woman, directed by a woman, designed by women and produced by a team of women. It tells the tale of a woman “who dares to live her own authentic life.” The team is seeking money for final touches, including post-production work, preparations for festival premiers and to hire a publicist.
The Money: The team is looking to raise $35,000 by Dec. 20. Backers of the project can choose from perks including custom items signed by the cast — some of whom are Tony-nominated.
5. Super Powers For Every Girl (via Kickstarter)
The Business: Minneapolis-based entrepreneur Lisa Van Ahn created a book and card set for girls, in an effort to help them think, feel and act in positive ways. “Self-protection is a daily practice and must be a part of every girl’s life as she grows into becoming a powerful force for positive change,” she wrote in the campaign. Following a rocky start in life, Van Ahn found stability and inner harmony through a lengthy journey of introspection and hard work. Now, she hopes to inspire girls to love themselves and live well.
The Money: Van Ahn has already exceeded her $7,000 goal, and has until Dec. 22 to raise more money. The funds will allow her finish last-minute details on the book and card designs. It will also allow her to lower the cost of bulk orders, which would benefit all, but in particular girls in financial need.
[box_light]
Want to be featured in The Story Exchange’s Crowdfunding column? Drop us a line and tell us about your campaign at [email protected].
[/box_light]