Q&A: Crowdfunding
What is crowdfunding?
One of the dramatic changes that the internet has created on commerce is the ability to make it much easier and cheaper to connect those with something to sell with those with money. Crowdfunding applies this matchmaking process to people with a need for cash and donors or investors.
Is crowdfunding the same thing as peer-to-peer lending?
Not according to those who call themselves this, such as Zopa, Thincats and Funding Circle. Like crowdfunders, these peer-to-peer lenders use the vast reach of the internet to bring together people with money and those that need it. Unlike crowdfunding companies such as Kickstarter and Seedrs, the peer-to-peer lenders are focused on enabling people to lend money, as opposed to investing or donating cash.