How Long Does It Take For Indiegogo To Approve A Campaign Launch?

Introduction

Launching a campaign on Indiegogo, the popular crowdfunding platform, is an exciting endeavor. Whether you are a creator looking to bring a new product to market or a passionate individual seeking support for a meaningful cause, the success of your campaign depends on various factors, one of which is the approval process.

After submitting your campaign proposal, you eagerly await Indiegogo’s approval. However, you might wonder, “How long does it take for Indiegogo to approve a campaign launch?” The truth is, there is no fixed timeline for campaign approval as the process can vary based on several factors.

In this article, we will explore the factors that affect the approval time for an Indiegogo campaign. Understanding these factors can help you plan and manage your campaign launch effectively, ensuring a smooth transition from submission to the active campaign phase.

By knowing what to expect and how to expedite the approval process, you can minimize delays and maximize your campaign’s potential for success. Let’s dive into the key factors that influence Indiegogo’s campaign approval timeframe.

Factors That Affect Indiegogo Approval Time

When it comes to the approval time for an Indiegogo campaign, several factors come into play. While Indiegogo strives to review and approve campaigns as quickly as possible, the following key factors can influence the approval timeframe:

1. Campaign Content Review

Indiegogo carefully reviews every campaign to ensure it adheres to their content policies. This includes evaluating the campaign’s description, images, videos, and rewards. If your campaign contains any prohibited content or violates community guidelines, it may result in additional review time or even rejection.

2. Verification Process

As part of Indiegogo’s commitment to maintaining a trustworthy and secure platform, they conduct verification checks on campaign creators. This process is designed to confirm the identity and legitimacy of the individuals or companies launching campaigns. Depending on the complexity of the verification process, it can add to the overall approval time.

3. Payment Account Setup

Indiegogo requires campaign creators to set up a payment account, typically through a third-party payment processor like Stripe or PayPal. Setting up and verifying these payment accounts is crucial to ensure a smooth flow of funds during the campaign. Delays in payment account setup or verification can impact the approval time.

4. Additional Due Diligence

In some cases, Indiegogo may conduct additional due diligence on campaigns that raise red flags or require further scrutiny. This can involve verifying claims made in the campaign, confirming the legality of products or services offered, or evaluating potential risks associated with the project. Such additional checks may prolong the approval process.

5. Review Queue Length

Indiegogo receives a high volume of campaign submissions on a daily basis. The review process operates on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning if there is a backlog of campaigns waiting for approval, it may lengthen the approval time for your campaign.

6. Support Response Time

If Indiegogo’s support team needs to reach out to you for clarifications, additional documentation, or addressing any concerns, the approval time can extend depending on how promptly you respond. Being proactive and responsive to support requests can significantly reduce the approval time.

These factors collectively contribute to the overall approval time for an Indiegogo campaign. Understanding and considering these factors can help you estimate the time it may take for your campaign to be approved and allow you to plan accordingly.

Campaign Content Review

One of the key factors that can impact the approval time for an Indiegogo campaign is the thorough review of the campaign content. Indiegogo takes this step seriously to ensure that all campaigns on their platform adhere to their content policies and community guidelines.

During the campaign content review process, Indiegogo assesses aspects such as the campaign description, images, videos, and rewards. They look for prohibited content, including but not limited to, illegal items, offensive materials, or campaigns that promote hate speech or discrimination. If your campaign contains any such content, it may result in additional review time or even rejection.

To ensure a smooth and timely approval process, it is crucial to carefully review and adhere to Indiegogo’s content policies while creating your campaign. Consider the following tips:

• Be clear and concise in your campaign description: Clearly explain your project or cause, its goals, and how the funds will be utilized. Avoid using overly promotional language and ensure that your description aligns with Indiegogo’s guidelines.
• Choose appropriate images and videos: Select high-quality visuals that accurately represent your campaign. Avoid using copyrighted materials or images that may be in violation of any intellectual property laws.
• Set realistic and enticing rewards: Create compelling rewards that entice backers to support your campaign. Ensure that the rewards are feasible and can be delivered on time as promised.

By adhering to these guidelines and carefully crafting your campaign content, you increase the likelihood of a smooth review process and expedite the approval time.

Verification Process

The verification process is an essential step in Indiegogo’s commitment to maintaining a secure and trustworthy platform. It involves validating the identity and legitimacy of campaign creators before their campaigns are approved.

Indiegogo conducts various verification checks to ensure that the individuals or companies launching campaigns are credible and can be trusted. The complexity of these checks can impact the overall approval time for a campaign.

Here are some factors to consider regarding the verification process:

• Identity verification: Indiegogo may require campaign creators to submit documents or information to verify their identity. This can involve providing government-issued identification documents, contact details, and other relevant information.
• Company verification: For campaigns launched by companies or organizations, additional verification steps may be required. This can include verifying the legal existence of the company, business registration documents, and other relevant information.
• Review of supporting documentation: Depending on the nature of the campaign, Indiegogo may request additional documentation to support the claims made in the campaign. This can include prototypes, patents, licenses, or any other relevant documentation.

To expedite the verification process, it is essential to be prepared and organized. Consider the following tips:

• Gather and submit required documents: Ensure you have all the necessary documents and information ready for verification. This includes personal identification, company registration documents (if applicable), and any supporting evidence for your campaign claims.
• Provide accurate and up-to-date information: Double-check that all the information you provide during the verification process is accurate and up-to-date. Mistakes or outdated information can cause delays in the approval process.
• Respond promptly to verification requests: If Indiegogo’s team reaches out to you for additional information or clarification, make it a priority to respond promptly. Delays in responding can prolong the verification process and, consequently, the approval time.

By being proactive in preparing for the verification process and promptly providing the requested information, you can help expedite the approval of your Indiegogo campaign.

Payment Account Setup

Setting up a payment account is a crucial step in launching an Indiegogo campaign. It facilitates the seamless flow of funds from backers to campaign creators. While Indiegogo offers integration with popular payment processors like Stripe and PayPal, the payment account setup process can impact the overall approval time.

Here are some factors to consider regarding payment account setup:

• Choose a trusted payment processor: Indiegogo supports various payment processors, and it is essential to select a reliable and trusted one for your campaign. Research the available options and choose the processor that aligns with your requirements.
• Follow the setup instructions carefully: When setting up your payment account, carefully follow the instructions provided by the payment processor. Ensure that all the required information is accurately entered, such as bank account details and tax information.
• Verification and approval process: The payment processor may have its own verification and approval process, which can take time. This can include confirming your identity, verifying your bank account details, and reviewing your campaign details.

To expedite the payment account setup process, consider the following tips:

• Prepare the required information in advance: Before starting the payment account setup, gather all the necessary information and documents. This may include your bank account information, tax identification number, and proof of identity.
• Double-check the accuracy of the provided information: Ensure that all the information you provide during the payment account setup process is accurate and up-to-date. Any discrepancies or errors can lead to delays in approval.
• Respond promptly to verification requests: If the payment processor requires additional information or verification, respond promptly to their requests. This can help expedite the approval process and ensure that your campaign can start accepting contributions as quickly as possible.

By carefully following the instructions provided by the payment processor and promptly providing any requested information or documentation, you can help streamline the payment account setup process and minimize delays in the approval of your Indiegogo campaign.

Additional Due Diligence

As part of its commitment to maintaining a trustworthy platform, Indiegogo may conduct additional due diligence on certain campaigns. This step is designed to ensure the legitimacy and integrity of the projects being launched. Depending on the nature of your campaign or any potential red flags, this additional due diligence can impact the overall approval time.

The specific factors considered during the additional due diligence process can vary based on the campaign and its context. Some common areas of investigation include:

• Claims verification: Indiegogo may review the claims made in the campaign to ensure their accuracy and feasibility. This can involve evaluating prototypes, seeking expert opinions, or requesting additional evidence to substantiate the claims made in the campaign description.
• Legality assessment: In certain cases, campaigns may involve products, services, or activities that require a closer examination of their legality. Indiegogo may evaluate the legal compliance of the campaign, ensuring that it does not violate any laws or regulations.
• Risk assessment: Indiegogo considers potential risks associated with the campaign, such as safety concerns, intellectual property infringement, or financial risks. This assessment aims to protect both campaign creators and backers from fraudulent or risky endeavors.

It is important to note that additional due diligence is conducted on a case-by-case basis and is not applicable to all campaigns. Nevertheless, if your campaign raises any red flags or requires further scrutiny, it may undergo a more in-depth evaluation, which could extend the approval time.

To ensure a smooth approval process and expedite the due diligence phase, consider the following tips:

• Provide comprehensive and accurate information: Make sure that your campaign description and supporting materials provide detailed and accurate information. This helps Indiegogo assess your project more efficiently and reduces the need for additional clarification or evidence.
• Address potential risks proactively: If your campaign involves any potential risks, address them proactively in your campaign description. Clearly communicate how you plan to minimize or mitigate these risks, demonstrating a responsible approach to your project.
• Be patient and cooperative: Understand that additional due diligence is conducted to ensure the credibility and safety of the Indiegogo platform. Cooperate with any requests for additional information or evidence, and be patient throughout the process.

By providing comprehensive and accurate information, addressing potential risks proactively, and cooperating with Indiegogo during the additional due diligence phase, you can contribute to a smoother approval process for your campaign.

Review Queue Length

The length of the review queue is another factor that can influence the approval time for an Indiegogo campaign. Indiegogo receives a significant number of campaign submissions on a daily basis, and the review process operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

When there is a high volume of campaigns awaiting approval, the review queue can become longer, resulting in delays for newly submitted campaigns. The exact length of the review queue can vary depending on various factors, including the influx of campaigns, the complexity of the campaigns being reviewed, and the availability of the review team.

To better manage your expectations regarding approval time and navigate the potential delays caused by the review queue, consider the following:

• Submit your campaign early: It’s always beneficial to submit your campaign early, especially if you have a specific launch date in mind. This allows for more time in the queue and increases the chances of approval before your desired launch date.
• Plan your campaign timeline accordingly: Take the potential review queue length into account when planning your campaign launch. Give yourself ample time for the approval process, and avoid setting unrealistic deadlines that could cause unnecessary stress.
• Monitor your campaign’s status: Keep an eye on the status of your campaign in your Indiegogo account dashboard. Indiegogo provides updates on the progress of the review process, allowing you to stay informed about any potential delays.

While the review queue length is beyond your control, submitting your campaign early and adjusting your campaign timeline accordingly can help you navigate the potential delays more effectively. It’s important to be patient and understand that Indiegogo strives to review campaigns as quickly as possible.

Remember, the review queue length can fluctuate, and it’s also influenced by external factors such as seasonal peaks or promotional events. By planning ahead and allowing for potential delays caused by the review queue, you can better manage your campaign launch expectations.

Support Response Time

Indiegogo’s support team plays an important role in the approval process of a campaign. They may reach out to campaign creators for various reasons, including clarifications, additional documentation, or addressing any concerns that arise during the review process.

As a campaign creator, your responsiveness to Indiegogo’s support team can have a significant impact on the overall approval time. Timely and effective communication can help resolve any issues or questions swiftly, ensuring a smoother approval process.

Consider the following tips regarding support response time:

• Monitor your email and Indiegogo account: Stay vigilant in checking your email inbox and your Indiegogo account for any messages or notifications from the support team. Respond to their inquiries promptly to avoid unnecessary delays.
• Provide clear and concise responses: When responding to support inquiries, be clear and concise in your answers. Make sure to address all the points raised and provide any requested information or documentation accurately.
• Be proactive in reaching out: If you anticipate any potential issues or have questions yourself, don’t hesitate to reach out to the support team proactively. This can help resolve any concerns before they delay the approval process.

By being responsive and proactive in your communication with Indiegogo’s support team, you can help expedite the approval process for your campaign. Remember that the support team is there to assist you and ensure that your campaign meets all the necessary requirements.

It’s important to note that the support response time can also vary depending on the workload of the support team and the complexity of the issues raised. Being patient and understanding during the communication process can contribute to a smoother and quicker approval for your campaign.

Tips to Speed Up Indiegogo Campaign Approval

While the approval time for an Indiegogo campaign can vary based on various factors, there are steps you can take to potentially expedite the process. By following these tips, you can increase the chances of a faster approval for your campaign:

1. Plan Ahead and Submit Early: Submit your campaign well in advance of your desired launch date. This allows for sufficient time in case there are any unforeseen delays or additional requirements.
2. Ensure Accurate and Complete Campaign Information: Double-check that all the information on your campaign page is accurate and complete. This includes your campaign description, images, videos, and rewards. Inaccurate or incomplete information may lead to additional review time.
3. Prepare for Verification Process in Advance: Gather all the necessary documents and information required for the verification process. This includes personal identification, company registration documents (if applicable), and any supporting evidence for your campaign claims.
4. Double-Check Payment Account Setup: Ensure that you have set up your payment account correctly and provided accurate information. Any discrepancies or errors in the payment account setup can cause delays in the approval process.
5. Be Responsive to Indiegogo’s Support Team: Stay vigilant and responsive to any inquiries or requests from Indiegogo’s support team. Promptly provide any additional information or documentation they require to keep the approval process moving smoothly.

By following these tips, you can streamline the approval process for your Indiegogo campaign. While there is no guarantee of an instantaneous approval, taking proactive steps and ensuring accuracy in your campaign preparation can increase the likelihood of a faster approval timeframe.

It’s essential to note that each campaign is unique, and the approval process depends on multiple factors. Indiegogo strives to review and approve campaigns as quickly as possible while maintaining the integrity and trustworthiness of the platform.

Remember to exercise patience throughout the process, as the review and approval time can vary. Stay engaged with Indiegogo’s updates and communications while remaining proactive and responsive to any requirements they may have for your campaign.

Plan Ahead and Submit Early

When preparing to launch a campaign on Indiegogo, one of the most effective ways to speed up the approval process is to plan ahead and submit your campaign early. This allows for ample time for review, verification, and any necessary adjustments. By avoiding last-minute submissions, you can minimize potential delays and increase the chances of a faster approval.

Here are some key steps to consider when planning ahead and submitting your campaign early:

1. Set a realistic timeline: Establish a clear timeline for your campaign, including the launch date, key milestones, and promotional activities. Consider factors such as the duration of the approval process and the time needed for marketing efforts to maximize the campaign’s success.
2. Prepare your campaign materials: Take the time to gather and organize all the necessary campaign materials, such as compelling images, informative videos, and a well-written campaign description. This ensures that you have everything ready to submit and minimizes the risk of missing important elements.
3. Thoroughly review campaign guidelines: Familiarize yourself with Indiegogo’s guidelines to ensure your campaign complies with their policies. Review their prohibited items list and community guidelines to avoid any potential disqualifications or delays.
4. Consider pre-launch marketing: Build anticipation and generate buzz for your campaign by leveraging pre-launch marketing strategies. This helps create awareness among your target audience and can result in a more successful launch when your campaign is approved.
5. Submit early: Once you have thoroughly prepared your campaign and all supporting documentation, submit it as early as possible. This gives the Indiegogo team sufficient time to review and evaluate your campaign, increasing the likelihood of a faster approval process.

By planning ahead and submitting your campaign early, you give yourself the advantage of time. This allows for greater flexibility in addressing any potential issues or making adjustments based on feedback from the Indiegogo team. It also helps avoid the stress associated with last-minute preparations.

However, it’s important to note that even with early submission, the approval time can still depend on various factors beyond your control. Indiegogo strives to provide timely reviews but ensuring a quality and compliant campaign takes priority to ensure the best experience for all users.

Remember that successful campaigns require careful planning and execution. By giving yourself sufficient time to prepare and submit your campaign early, you can set the stage for a smoother approval process and increase the likelihood of a successful campaign on Indiegogo.

Ensure Accurate and Complete Campaign Information

When it comes to expediting the approval process of your Indiegogo campaign, accuracy and completeness of campaign information play a crucial role. By ensuring that all the details of your campaign are accurate and complete, you can minimize the need for clarification or additional review, potentially speeding up the approval process.

Consider the following tips to ensure accurate and complete campaign information:

1. Double-check campaign description: Carefully review your campaign description to ensure that it accurately and comprehensively communicates your project or cause. Clearly explain the purpose, goals, and how funds will be utilized. Avoid any misleading or ambiguous information that may raise concerns during the review process.
2. Provide high-quality visuals: The images and videos you include on your campaign page serve as essential visual elements to engage backers. Ensure that they are of high quality, visually appealing, and accurately represent your project or cause.
3. Outline clear and achievable campaign milestones: Break down your campaign milestones in a clear and achievable manner. Clearly articulate the specific actions or goals you plan to accomplish at each milestone, highlighting the progress and impact of the campaign.
4. Describe rewards accurately: If you offer rewards to backers, clearly describe each reward tier and its associated benefits. Provide accurate details about what backers can expect to receive, such as estimated delivery times and any limitations or conditions.
5. Revisit and proofread: After drafting your campaign information, take the time to revisit and proofread every aspect. Look for any grammatical errors, typos, or inconsistencies that may undermine the credibility of your campaign.

By ensuring accuracy and completeness in your campaign information, you reduce the likelihood of receiving requests for clarification or additional review, thus potentially expediting the approval process. It demonstrates professionalism and attention to detail, giving the Indiegogo team confidence in your campaign’s integrity.

Keep in mind that accurate and complete information not only speeds up the approval process but also enhances your campaign’s credibility and increases the chances of attracting backers. Invest the necessary time and effort to review and refine your campaign information before submission, setting the stage for a successful campaign on Indiegogo.

Prepare for Verification Process in Advance

The verification process is a crucial step in getting your Indiegogo campaign approved. By preparing for the verification process in advance, you can streamline the process and potentially expedite the approval of your campaign.

Consider the following tips to be well-prepared for the verification process:

1. Gather necessary documentation: Review Indiegogo’s requirements for verification and ensure you have all the necessary documentation ready. This may include personal identification documents, business registration certificates (if applicable), and any supporting evidence for your campaign claims.
2. Ensure document validity: Check that all your documents are up to date and valid. Make sure personal identification documents have not expired, and business registration certificates are still in effect. Outdated or expired documents can cause delays in the verification process.
3. Prepare supporting evidence: If your campaign involves prototypes, patents, licenses, or any other type of supporting evidence, have them ready for submission. Clear and well-documented evidence can expedite the verification process.
4. Organize your documentation: Keep all your documentation organized in a logical and easily accessible manner. This makes it easier to provide the required information when requested, reducing any potential delays caused by searching for documents.
5. Review Indiegogo’s verification guidelines: Familiarize yourself with Indiegogo’s guidelines for verification. Understand the types of verification they require and any specific requirements or restrictions they have. This helps you ensure that you provide the correct and relevant documentation.
6. Respond promptly to verification requests: If Indiegogo’s support team requests additional information or documentation during the verification process, respond promptly and provide the requested details. Delays in responding to verification requests can prolong the approval process.

By being prepared and organized for the verification process, you can help expedite the approval of your Indiegogo campaign. Timely submission of accurate and complete documentation minimizes the need for follow-up requests and additional verification steps, thus speeding up the overall process.

Remember that verification is an essential part of Indiegogo’s commitment to maintaining a secure and trustworthy platform for both creators and backers. Put in the effort to prepare the necessary documentation beforehand, ensuring a smoother and more efficient verification process for your campaign.

Double-Check Payment Account Setup

Setting up your payment account correctly is crucial for the smooth processing of contributions to your Indiegogo campaign. By double-checking your payment account setup, you can avoid potential issues or delays that could affect the approval of your campaign.

Consider the following tips to ensure your payment account setup is accurate and complete:

1. Select a trusted payment processor: Indiegogo integrates with popular payment processors like Stripe and PayPal. Choose a trusted and reliable payment processor that suits your needs and complies with Indiegogo’s requirements.
2. Follow setup instructions carefully: Pay close attention to the instructions provided by your chosen payment processor. Ensure you provide accurate information, such as your bank account details or merchant identification, to enable smooth flow of funds during the campaign.
3. Verify your payment account: Some payment processors require verification to ensure the security and legitimacy of your account. Complete any necessary verification steps promptly to avoid delays in the approval process.
4. Check withdrawal settings: Review and configure your withdrawal settings within your payment account. Confirm that the designated bank account or payment method is correctly linked to receive funds from your Indiegogo campaign.
5. Test payment processing: Run a test transaction through your payment account to ensure that the payment processing functionality is working as expected. This allows you to identify and resolve any issues in advance, minimizing disruptions once your campaign is live.

By double-checking your payment account setup, you can increase the chances of a smooth and seamless campaign approval process. Accuracy in your payment account details ensures that funds can be processed correctly, boosting the trustworthiness of your campaign in the eyes of Indiegogo and potential backers.

Remember that payment account setup is a critical aspect of your campaign’s success. Guaranteeing accuracy and completeness in this area minimizes the risk of complications when it comes time to collect and process contributions, making for a more efficient campaign approval process.

Be Responsive to Indiegogo’s Support Team

Being responsive to Indiegogo’s support team is essential for expediting the approval process of your campaign. Their role is to ensure that campaigns comply with Indiegogo’s guidelines and address any questions or concerns that may arise during the review process.

Here are some tips for effectively communicating and being responsive to Indiegogo’s support team:

1. Monitor your email and Indiegogo account: Keep a close eye on your email inbox and your Indiegogo account for any messages, notifications, or updates from the support team. Stay updated on the progress of your campaign’s review.
2. Respond promptly to inquiries: If the support team reaches out to you for clarification, additional documentation, or any other information, respond in a timely manner. Prompt responses allow the review process to continue smoothly and avoid unnecessary delays.
3. Provide clear and concise answers: When responding to inquiries or clarifications, be clear, concise, and thorough in your answers. Address all the points raised and any specific questions asked. This helps the support team understand your campaign better and reduces the need for repeated back-and-forth communication.
4. Be proactive in communication: If you anticipate any potential issues or have questions yourself, don’t hesitate to reach out to the support team proactively. Prompt communication can help address concerns before they cause delays in the approval process.
5. Stay professional and respectful: Maintain a professional and respectful tone in all your communications with the support team. Politeness and professionalism go a long way in fostering a positive working relationship and expediting the approval process.

By being responsive and collaborative with Indiegogo’s support team, you can help expedite the approval process of your campaign. Efficient and effective communication demonstrates your commitment to meeting Indiegogo’s requirements and enables the support team to assist you promptly and efficiently.

Remember that the support team is there to ensure the integrity and quality of campaigns on Indiegogo. Stay engaged in the communication process and be open to any feedback or guidance they provide. By fostering a productive and responsive relationship with the support team, you can navigate the approval process smoothly and timely.

Conclusion

The approval process for an Indiegogo campaign can vary based on several factors, including campaign content review, verification processes, payment account setup, additional due diligence, review queue length, and support response time. While the exact approval timeframe is not fixed, there are steps you can take to potentially expedite the process.

By planning ahead and submitting your campaign early, you give yourself more time for review and potential adjustments. Ensuring accurate and complete campaign information helps minimize the need for clarification or additional review. Preparing for the verification process in advance and having all necessary documentation ready can streamline the process. Double-checking your payment account setup ensures the smooth flow of funds during the campaign. Being responsive to Indiegogo’s support team and promptly addressing any inquiries or requests helps keep the approval process on track.

Remember that Indiegogo’s approval process aims to maintain the integrity and quality of campaigns on their platform. While you can take steps to expedite the approval, it’s important to be patient, as the review timeline can vary. By adhering to the guidelines, providing accurate information, and maintaining clear communication, you increase your chances of a faster approval.

Launching a successful campaign on Indiegogo requires careful planning, attention to detail, and proactive engagement. By implementing the tips outlined in this article and being mindful of the factors that influence the approval process, you can optimize your campaign’s chances of approval and set yourself up for a successful crowdfunding experience on Indiegogo.