Can I use social media to promote my Fundable profile once it’s launched? Can I promote my Fundable profile after it's live? Am I allowed to market my Fundable listing once it's active?
Yes, it is not only acceptable but highly encouraged to market your Fundable profile once it's launched. Effective marketing is crucial to the success of your crowdfunding campaign, as it helps attract potential investors and supporters to your profile.
Social Media Promotion
Utilizing social media platforms like Facebook, X, LinkedIn, Reddit, and Pinterest can significantly increase visibility for your campaign. Each platform has its unique audience and best practices:
-
Facebook: With over 1 billion active users, sharing visual content such as photos and videos can drive engagement.
-
Twitter / X: Ideal for quick updates and sharing links, quotes, or sound bites to keep your audience informed.
-
LinkedIn: A professional network where sharing articles and business updates can attract industry-specific attention.
-
Reddit: Engage in relevant subreddits by participating in discussions and sharing informative content related to your campaign.
-
Pinterest: Share infographics, product images, and other visually appealing content to capture interest.
Developing a strategic social media marketing plan in advance is essential to effectively utilize these platforms and direct traffic to your Fundable profile.
Media and Public Relations
Launching a crowdfunding campaign also presents an opportunity to execute a successful public relations strategy. By coupling your launch with a strong PR push, you can gain benefits like top-tier press mentions and improved brand recognition. To capture media attention:
-
Craft a compelling subject line: Keep it concise (less than 80 characters) to grab attention.
-
Write a concise email pitch: Use bullet points to convey your message effectively.
-
Target appropriate media contacts: Research journalists and outlets that align with your industry and audience.
Remember, journalists receive numerous pitches daily, so making yours stand out is crucial.
General Solicitation Considerations
With the SEC's changes effective from September 23, 2013, companies can now publicly discuss their fundraising efforts, attracting a broader audience of potential investors. However, if you engage in general solicitation—promoting your fundraising beyond personal networks—you are required to take "reasonable steps" to verify that your investors are accredited. This includes reviewing financial documents or obtaining written confirmations from qualified professionals.
When publicly promoting your campaign, ensure that all statements are factual and avoid hyperbole or forward-looking predictions. For example, instead of saying, "This is going to be the next Facebook," you should state, "We have acquired 60,000 users in the past month."
Final Thoughts
Marketing your Fundable profile through social media and PR is acceptable and essential for maximizing your campaign's reach and effectiveness. Just be mindful of regulatory requirements if you choose to engage in general solicitation.