Most of us understand what Kickstarter and Indiegogo are by now and what a wonderful opportunity they bring to creative innovators with lack of financial backing. In our opinion its truly one of the best ways internet is being used today. It really takes the DIY approach to a whole another level and it’s certainly a community driven activity where many people get to make a contribution for projects they feel deserve to become a reality. Unless you have investors, you will most likely have to pick up loans to make your dream come true – which more than often yield losses than success. Is their seriously another better business concept (for not so financially blessed innovators)?
Kickstarter not only allows for someone’s business to get the funds, but it also allows them to present their product on a grander scale – and to an audience that cares.
While of course not all Kickstarter ideas are the best ideas ever known to mankind, some are so amazing that we feel everyone should know about their existence. Here are some of our favorite campaigns – some of these are even available!
Solar Roadways
You do not know what you are missing out on if you have not been made aware of this brilliant idea – to replace the awful tar roads with very versatile solar panels. Not only are they better at taking a beating, but they are easier to maintain and replace. They also melt snow, create clean energy, and can also be modified to display road signs – including giving warnings. Of course, this may seem like an impossible task – especially considering the coal industry have lobbied the congress to death – but it surely deserves to be tested on small areas like parking lot and playgrounds. With climate change being humanities (actual) biggest concern, any ideas to get it under control must be tested.
FORM 1: An affordable, professional 3D printer
3D printing is an idea many still think is an idea out of a science-fiction story; luckily the truth is more savory. Not only is 3D printing a reality, it is one that you can get your hands on. Granted, this not exactly a product that may be practical for everyone to own, but it may be worth your investment if you love doing your own engineering, design, art, and research projects – this can really take your creativity to a whole another level and allow you to personalize your projects to the extreme. There are a bunch of other 3D printer campaigns – this one however has received the most backing (although we are sure that other ones are just as amazing and/or feature something unique to this entire concept).
COOLEST COOLER: 21st Century Cooler that’s Actually Cooler
We are all about products that encourage people to get together and hang outside of your living room. COOLEST COOLER may not exactly encourage you to do that, but it may help plant the idea to do so. COOLEST COOLER comes with a blender, outdoor Bluetooth speaker, USB charger, multiple storage units for all kinds of purposes (phones, knifes, etc.), a cutting board, and so much more. The campaign’s goal has been met with overwhelming contribution – raising over 13 million (which is about 26,570% more than what the initial goal) – so the demand for this is more than obvious. The creators are in the process of commercializing their product and we should be seeing this anytime now!
The Artiphon INSTRUMENT 1
Learning an instrument is a commitment not many are able to keep; a lot of factors go into this mindset. Some instruments take up too much space, perhaps the lessons may be too expensive or inconvenient, parents/roommates may find it to be an annoyance, but most of all because many youngsters simply do not find them cool or engaging anymore. Kids these days are raised in front of iPads so it is best to figure out a way to incorporate the best of both worlds.
The Artiphon INSTRUMENT 1 does just that. One can learn how to play guitar, violin, piano, and drums through this device. It connects with a tablet and comes with all the lessons one could need. The size is fairly compact and earphones can be used so there is no noise at all. The best part, it may just encourage the user to pick up a real life instrument to put their skills to test.
Oculus Rift
Virtual gaming that you can enjoy at the comfort of your home; need we say more? It may be something not all gamers currently have their hands on as it is only available for PC gamers. Given the time it maybe something all games (for consoles too) will have to be compatible for; hey, one can dream at least. The Rift deserves a special mention on this list because it went on to be a spectacular success – and all due to the (financial) support it gathered through crowdfunding. Combining this with another Kickstarter item, Omni, a free-roam platform, will take living room gaming to a whole another level of awesome!
We encourage you to mention other noteworthy campaigns others would be interested in – do so with a comment below!
Honorable Mentions:
3Doodler: The World’s First 3D Printing Pen: A pen that allows you to make neat little 3d sculptures; 3Doodler 2.0 can be pre-ordered for $99 – it comes out on May 20th.
LIFX: The Light Bulb Reinvented: A light bulb whose color and other functions can be controlled via an app; now each room of your house can be illuminated to your specifications!
Bookniture: A book that once opened could be turned into a portable seat or table! Pretty decent alternative for those that enjoy going to outdoor shows and despise carrying lawn seats.
Skully: A motorcycle helmet that comes with a rear-view mirror, heads-up display, and GPS without compromising on clarity on the road. This helmet is spectacular considering many motorcyclists rely on stands for the phones to navigate – which is of course very dangerous.