Kickstarter launched in 2009 and quickly changed the way people fund creative projects. Instead of relying on traditional investors, creators pitch their ideas directly to the public. If enough people back the project, the campaign gets funded. Over the years, the platform has supported everything from smartwatches to board games, documentaries to food trucks.
What makes Kickstarter so appealing is its all-or-nothing model. If a campaign doesn’t reach its goal, no money changes hands. This encourages creators to build momentum and offer compelling rewards. Backers enjoy the satisfaction of helping bring a new idea to life.
Some of the most successful products in tech started as Kickstarter projects. Pebble smartwatch raised over $10 million and sparked the wearables trend. Oculus Rift began as a Kickstarter before being acquired for billions. Even the card game Exploding Kittens raised nearly $9 million, proving that humor has commercial value.
But Kickstarter isn’t just about gadgets. Artists, musicians, and filmmakers use the platform to fund projects that might not find traditional backing. From indie comics to experimental documentaries, Kickstarter is a hub of creativity.
Here are five Kickstarter campaigns that went viral:
- The Potato Salad Campaign – A simple joke that raised over $55,000.
- Exploding Kittens – A card game from The Oatmeal that broke crowdfunding records.
- Pebble Smartwatch – The device that proved smartwatches had a future.
- Fidget Cube – A desk toy for restless hands that raised millions.
- Oculus Rift – The virtual reality headset that changed gaming.
Whether you’re looking for the next big innovation or just a good laugh, Kickstarter has it all. Browse related categories below to find more viral stories.