Columbus Crowdfunding Roundup – March 2016

Will the March campaigns fare better than February’s zero for eight effort? (Results below.) You might see a few familiar names as two of last month’s campaigns give it another go. People are feeling funny in March with two campaigns build around comedy. There are also the additions of food trucks, another take on urban farming and more. Keep reading to find out what businesses are vying for dollars in March.

CBus Improv Theatre

Two master improv-ers are giving comedy a home in Columbus. A safe place to study and perform the art of improv, the theater will offer classes, shows and welcome other forms of laughs through sketch and stand-up shows. The comedic duo have their eye on a location, and are raising funds to partner with their own capital for build-out and all that comes with it.

Bugalow Supply Co. Buy One, Give One Winter Gear for the Homeless

Social enterprise Bungalow Supply Co. is launching as a one-for-one apparel company. Starting with beanies, the business will follow a model of sell one, donate the equivalent item to a local shelter. While the plan is to start with hats, the goal is to move into other apparel such as bags, gloves, scarves, jackets and baseball caps.

Help Infinity Move to a New Home

Infinity Aerial has been plagued by building and rental issues. The pole dancing and ariel skills studio is amidst its second move in a short time frame. Move number one has left resources strained and the studio is raising funds for a relocation to a better home to continue to grow its business.

Miggy’s Tacos & More 

Columbus will have another taco truck if this campaign hits its goal. Several years in this making, this mother of nine dreams of taking her tacos to the masses. Success not only means accomplishing a seemingly unsurmountable personal goal, but setting an example for her kids that hard work and focus accomplish goals. Miggy’s trailer is purchased with funds going to finishing off the operation.

A Chef to the Homeless

A local sous chef wants to turn a food cart into a mobile social enterprise. Once homeless himself, the business owner will use the truck as a way to employ those facing challenges.

Freight Farm Production

Urban farming makes another appearance in Columbus crowdfunding. A team of friends are raising funds to bring a Freight Farm to Central Ohio. With its farm in a shipping container, the group hopes to promote local produce and educate urban youth on the importance of sustainable farming. Funds raised will go towards purchasing the initial unit.

Reopening Historic Woods Market

Two sisters are raising funds to reopen the historic Woods Market in Lockbourne just south of Columbus. The community was hit hard by the recession but Amazon’s recent move to Columbus looks to breathe new life into the area. The store would offer basic grocery and convenience items, but also locally sourced fresh produce, baked goods and cheeses.

Whiskey Bear Comedy Festival

Columbus has seen comedy festivals cropping up, but Whiskey Bear Comedy Festival will take it to a new level. The comedian behind the Columbus Comedy Festival ups the ante with an affair that would feature some of the city’s funniest, and bring in talent and headliners from across the country. The festival is raising funds for all the costs associated with running an independent event.

The Great Samboni

The Great Samboni has traded GoFundMe for Kickstarter, giving crowdfunding another go. Regional gourmet sandwiches pair with retro and regional beverages on this mobile food venture. Funds raised go towards purchasing the truck and necessary equipment.

Novel: Wear a Better Story

Novel is back again, giving it another 60 days to continue to raise funds for their ethical clothing line. Transparency and quality drive the business that is also behind UNCHAINED, a fashion show that tells the story of a human trafficking victim. To launch the line, Novel is raising funds for fabrics, manufacturing and bringing their product to market.

Failed or Funded? February 2016

Novel: Wear a Better Story – Failed: $3,722 raised / $20,000 requested

Employment Gold – Failed: $640 raised / $100,000 requested

Klazo! – Failed: $316 raised / $5,000 requested
*current status, time remains on campaign

Making Midwest – Telling The Stories Of The Creative Midwest – Failed: $8,035 raised / $16,500 requested

Party EDU – Failed: $100 raised / $10,000 requested

The Great Samboni – Failed: $150 raised / $60,000 requested
*current status, time remains on campaign

Urban Agriculture Education Center – Failed: $20 raised / $200,000 requested

W.E. All Natural Farms – Failed: $0 raised / $4,000 requested