How To Cancel An Indiegogo Campaign

Introduction

Welcome to the world of crowdfunding! Indiegogo has become a popular platform for individuals and businesses to bring their innovative ideas to life through the support of backers from around the globe. However, there may be times when circumstances require you to cancel an Indiegogo campaign. In this article, we will guide you through the process of canceling a campaign and provide essential information on managing refunds and communicating with backers.

Cancelling an Indiegogo campaign can be a difficult decision to make, especially after investing significant time and effort into its promotion. It is essential to assess the reasons behind the cancellation and consider alternative actions before taking this step. Whether you’re facing unexpected setbacks or have decided to pivot your project’s direction, canceling a campaign is a resolution that deserves careful consideration.

In this guide, we will outline the steps you need to take to cancel an Indiegogo campaign effectively. We will also address common concerns such as communicating with backers, managing refunds, and reaching out to Indiegogo’s support team for assistance. By following the right procedures, you can navigate this process smoothly while maintaining transparency and trust with your backers.

It’s important to note that canceling a campaign should be a last resort. Before reaching that point, it is advisable to explore alternative options such as adjusting your campaign goals, improving your marketing strategy, or seeking external support. This article will also provide insights into these alternative actions to help you make an informed decision about the best course of action for your campaign.

Now that we have established the importance of careful consideration and exploration of alternatives, let’s dive into the steps involved in canceling an Indiegogo campaign. Whether it’s a change in circumstances, an overwhelming obstacle, or a strategic decision, understanding the process will empower you to handle the situation with confidence and professionalism.

Reasons to Cancel an Indiegogo Campaign

Canceling an Indiegogo campaign is not a decision to be taken lightly. It can have implications on your brand reputation, backer trust, and future crowdfunding endeavors. However, there are certain situations where canceling a campaign becomes inevitable. Let’s explore some common reasons why you might need to cancel an Indiegogo campaign:

1. Insufficient Funding: One of the primary goals of a crowdfunding campaign is to meet or exceed the funding target. If your campaign fails to attract enough backers or generate the required funds within the specified timeframe, you might need to consider canceling it. Continuing with a campaign that has no chance of reaching its goal can waste valuable time and resources.
2. Unforeseen Challenges: Sometimes, unforeseen challenges arise during the course of a campaign that render it impossible or impractical to continue. This can include unexpected production issues, legal complications, or external factors beyond your control. Canceling the campaign in such cases allows you to regroup, reassess the situation, and determine a new path forward.
3. Change in Direction: As a project evolves, it is natural for the plans and goals to change. If you have made significant changes to your project that no longer align with the original campaign or if you have decided to pursue a different direction altogether, canceling the campaign to start fresh can be a logical step. It allows you to be transparent with your backers about the changes and set clear expectations.
4. Misaligned Expectations: Communicating effectively with your backers is crucial in any crowdfunding campaign. However, if there is a significant misalignment between the promises made during the campaign and the actual outcome, canceling might be the responsible choice. It is important to maintain trust and integrity with your backers, and if the project can no longer deliver what was initially promised, canceling the campaign is the ethical decision.

While these are some common reasons to cancel an Indiegogo campaign, it is important to carefully evaluate the situation and consider the consequences before making the decision. Cancelling a campaign should only be done as a last resort after exploring all possible alternatives. In the next section, we will guide you through the steps involved in canceling an Indiegogo campaign effectively.

Steps to Cancel an Indiegogo Campaign

Cancelling an Indiegogo campaign involves several important steps to ensure a smooth and transparent process. Here are the steps to follow when you need to cancel your Indiegogo campaign:

1. Evaluate the decision: Before proceeding with the cancellation, take the time to thoroughly evaluate your reasons for canceling. Consider the impact on your project, backers, and overall reputation. Ensure that canceling the campaign is the most appropriate course of action.
2. Review campaign settings: Log in to your Indiegogo account and navigate to your campaign’s settings. Take a detailed look at the campaign information, including the funding goal, rewards, and launch settings to ensure you have a clear understanding of the campaign’s status.
3. Communicate with your team: Notify your team members and discuss the decision to cancel the campaign. It is essential to have open and transparent communication within your team to ensure everyone is on the same page and can assist with the cancellation process.
4. Backer communication: Prepare a concise and informative message to communicate with your backers regarding the cancellation. Explain the reasons behind the decision, express appreciation for their support, and provide any necessary details about refunds or future plans. Indiegogo provides a built-in messaging system to reach out to backers directly through the campaign page.
5. Update campaign page: Update your campaign page to clearly indicate that the campaign has been canceled. This helps to avoid any confusion for potential backers who may still come across your campaign page after the cancellation.
6. Refund process: If you have collected funds from backers, you need to determine how refunds will be handled. Indiegogo provides options to issue full or partial refunds directly through their platform. You can choose to refund individual backers or set up an automatic refund process for all backers.
7. Contact Indiegogo support: In cases where you encounter difficulties or have specific questions regarding the cancellation process, reach out to Indiegogo’s support team. They can provide guidance and assist you with any technical or logistical issues you may face during the cancellation process.
8. Post-cancellation communication: After canceling the campaign, it’s important to continue communicating with your backers and keeping them informed about any future plans or directions. Transparency and maintaining a connection with your backers will help to maintain their trust and support for your future endeavors.

Following these steps will ensure that your Indiegogo campaign is canceled in a responsible and professional manner. Remember to stay open, transparent, and responsive throughout the process to maintain the trust and support of your backers.

Contacting Indiegogo Support

If you encounter any difficulties or have specific questions during the process of canceling your Indiegogo campaign, reaching out to Indiegogo’s support team is a valuable resource. They are available to provide guidance and assistance throughout the cancellation process. Here’s how you can contact Indiegogo support:

1. Access the Help Center: Start by visiting the Indiegogo Help Center, which is a comprehensive resource for answers to commonly asked questions. It covers a wide range of topics related to campaign management, payments, refunds, and more. Use the search function to find relevant articles that address your specific concerns.
2. Submit a Support Request: If you cannot find the information you need in the Help Center, you have the option to submit a support request. This allows you to directly contact the Indiegogo support team with your query. Navigate to the Support Center page and click on the “Submit a Request” button to fill out the support form. Be sure to provide as much detail as possible to help the support team understand your issue accurately.
3. Check Your Email: Once you submit a support request, you will receive an automated email confirmation acknowledging your request. Indiegogo aims to respond to support inquiries within 24-48 hours. Be sure to check your email regularly for any updates or responses from the support team.
4. Follow Up if Necessary: If you don’t receive a response within the expected timeframe or if you need further clarification, don’t hesitate to follow up on your support request. Indiegogo’s support team is committed to resolving any issues you may encounter during the campaign cancellation process, and they will do their best to assist you.

Remember to be patient and provide all necessary information when contacting Indiegogo support. They have a dedicated team that is experienced in handling various campaign-related issues and will strive to offer the support you need to navigate the cancellation process effectively. Utilize their expertise and resources to ensure a smooth and successful cancellation.

Cancelling a Campaign with Backer Support

When you make the decision to cancel an Indiegogo campaign, it’s essential to communicate effectively with your backers. By involving them in the cancellation process and seeking their support, you can maintain transparency and nurture the relationship you have built with them. Here are some important steps to take when canceling a campaign with the support of your backers:

1. Notify Backers Early: As soon as you have made the decision to cancel the campaign, notify your backers promptly. Send out a clear and concise message through the Indiegogo messaging system, explaining the reasons behind the cancellation and expressing your gratitude for their support. Be open and honest about any challenges or changes that have led to this decision.
2. Provide an Explanation: In your communication, be transparent about why you are canceling the campaign. Share any necessary details and offer a sincere apology for any inconvenience caused to your backers. It’s important to demonstrate that you have carefully considered the decision and explain that canceling the campaign is ultimately in their best interest.
3. Offer Different Options: Depending on the circumstances, you can consider offering your backers several options. For example, you can offer a refund for their contribution, the opportunity to support a future project, or the option to transfer their pledge to a different crowdfunding platform or campaign. Providing choices allows backers to feel empowered and involved in the decision-making process.
4. Stay Transparent and Engage in Dialogue: Throughout the cancellation process, maintain open lines of communication with your backers. Respond promptly to their messages or inquiries, addressing any concerns they may have. Keeping them informed about the progress of the cancellation and subsequent steps will help build trust and understanding.
5. Express Gratitude: Remember to express your appreciation for the support your backers have shown. Let them know that their contributions were not taken for granted and that their trust in your project meant a lot to you. Showing gratitude can go a long way in maintaining a positive relationship with your backers, even in the face of campaign cancellation.

By involving your backers in the cancellation process and seeking their support, you can turn a potentially disappointing event into an opportunity to strengthen your bond with them. Keeping the lines of communication open and offering different options will demonstrate your commitment to their satisfaction and help maintain their trust in your future endeavors.

Managing Refunds for Backers

When canceling an Indiegogo campaign, one important aspect to consider is the management of refunds for your backers. Honoring your commitments and providing refunds in a timely manner is crucial to maintaining trust and goodwill with your supporters. Here are some key steps to effectively manage refunds for your backers:

1. Evaluate Refund Options: Take the time to evaluate your refund options and determine the best approach for your specific situation. Indiegogo offers two options for refund management: manual refunds and automatic refunds. Manual refunds allow you to refund each individual backer manually, while automatic refunds enable you to set specific criteria and refund multiple backers at once.
2. Communicate Refund Process: Clearly communicate the refund process to your backers. In your communication, explain the refund options available and any specific steps they need to take to initiate the refund. It is important to provide a timeline for when they can expect to receive their refund, as this helps manage expectations and demonstrates your commitment to resolving the situation.
3. Process Refunds Promptly: Once you have determined the refund method, begin the refund process as soon as possible. Be diligent in processing refunds and ensure that you provide timely updates to your backers throughout the process. Backers appreciate transparency and prompt action, so the quicker you can process refunds, the better.
4. Keep Records: Maintain accurate records of all refunds processed. This will help you keep track of the refunds issued and provide necessary documentation if any questions or concerns arise from your backers. Having detailed records of the refund process demonstrates your professionalism and accountability.
5. Consider Partial Refunds: In some cases, offering partial refunds may be a viable option. This can be particularly useful if there were aspects of the campaign that you were able to fulfill before cancellation. By offering a partial refund, you demonstrate your dedication to fulfilling your commitments as much as possible, even in challenging circumstances.
6. Follow Up and Resolution: After the refunds have been processed, make sure to follow up with your backers to confirm that they have received their refund. Address any concerns or issues that may have arisen during the refund process and strive to provide a satisfactory resolution for any outstanding matters.

Managing refunds for your backers is an essential step in canceling an Indiegogo campaign. By ensuring open communication, prompt action, and a commitment to fulfilling your obligations, you can demonstrate your integrity and maintain positive relationships with your backers.

Communicating with Backers After Cancellation

Effective communication with your backers is vital, even after canceling an Indiegogo campaign. It’s essential to keep your backers informed, maintain transparency, and nurture the relationship you have built with them. Here are some key points to consider when communicating with your backers after the cancellation:

1. Timely Updates: Provide updates to your backers as soon as possible after canceling the campaign. Address the reasons for the cancellation and explain any relevant details that led to the decision. Keeping your backers informed helps to maintain their trust and shows your commitment to transparency.
2. Show Appreciation: Express gratitude to your backers for their support and understanding. Acknowledge their contributions, even if the campaign didn’t meet its goals. Showing appreciation for their belief in your project can go a long way in maintaining positive relationships.
3. Offer an Explanation: Provide a thorough explanation of why the campaign was canceled. Share any unforeseen challenges, changes in circumstances, or other reasons that led to the decision. Clear and honest communication will help your backers understand the situation and the factors that influenced your decision.
4. Address Refunds: If refunds are involved, clearly explain the refund process and the timeline for when backers can expect to receive their refunds. Communicate any specific steps they need to take to initiate the refund. Assure them that you are committed to honoring your financial obligations and resolving the matter professionally.
5. Share Future Plans: If you have plans to pursue the project in a different way or launch a new campaign in the future, inform your backers about these plans. This can help them understand that the cancellation is not the end of the road and that you are committed to bringing your project to fruition in another form or at a later time.
6. Provide Contact Information: Make sure to provide your own contact information or a way for backers to reach out to you with any questions or concerns they may have. Be responsive and attentive to their messages, addressing any queries or comments promptly. Keeping the lines of communication open helps maintain a positive connection with your backers.
7. Stay Engaged: Even after the cancellation, continue to engage with your backers. Share updates on your progress, new projects you are working on, or any relevant industry news. Maintaining a connection with your backers will help to sustain their interest and support for your future endeavors.

Communicating effectively with your backers after canceling an Indiegogo campaign is crucial for maintaining their support, understanding, and trust. By providing clear explanations, showing appreciation, addressing refund concerns, and continuing the conversation, you can nurture the relationships you have built and keep your backers engaged in your journey.

Alternative Actions to Consider Before Cancelling

Before making the decision to cancel an Indiegogo campaign, it’s important to explore alternative actions that can potentially save your project and keep your campaign on track. Here are some alternative actions to consider before resorting to cancellation:

1. Assess Your Campaign Strategy: Take a step back and evaluate your campaign strategy. Are there any areas that can be improved or optimized? Revisit your marketing materials, messaging, rewards, and overall campaign presentation. Make necessary adjustments to enhance your campaign’s appeal and attract more backers.
2. Engage with Your Audience: Your backers and potential backers are valuable resources. Engage with them through updates, comments, and direct messages. Ask for feedback, address their concerns, and incorporate their suggestions into your campaign. Engaging and building a strong relationship with your audience can rejuvenate your campaign and attract new supporters.
3. Expand Your Reach: Consider expanding your reach beyond your immediate network. Utilize social media platforms, reach out to relevant online communities, and explore partnership opportunities with influencers or industry experts who align with your project. Extending your reach can expand your campaign’s visibility and attract a wider audience.
4. Pivot or Modify: Assess if there are aspects of your project that can be pivoted or modified to generate more interest. Is there a new angle or feature you can incorporate to make your project more appealing to potential backers? Remain open to creative adjustments that can make a significant impact on your campaign’s success.
5. Offer Limited-Time Promotions: Introduce limited-time promotions or exclusive rewards to create a sense of urgency and encourage potential backers to support your campaign. Providing additional incentives, such as early bird discounts or exclusive perks, can drive interest and prompt backers to take action immediately.
6. Seek External Support: Explore opportunities for external support, such as seeking partnerships or collaborations. This can involve reaching out to local businesses, relevant organizations, or even potential investors who may be interested in your project. External support can bring new resources, expertise, and exposure to your campaign.
7. Adjust Your Funding Goal: Consider adjusting your funding goal if it appears to be too high or unattainable. Lowering the goal can make it more realistic and achievable, potentially generating more interest from backers who are more likely to support a campaign with attainable goals.
8. Extend Your Campaign Duration: If your campaign is struggling to meet its funding goal within the specified timeframe, you may consider extending the duration of the campaign. This can give you more time to reach your target and attract more backers. However, it’s important to communicate the extension clearly to your existing backers and potential new supporters.

Exploring these alternative actions can help breathe new life into your Indiegogo campaign and potentially save it from cancellation. By assessing your strategy, engaging with your audience, making adjustments, and seeking external support, you may find a renewed path forward for your project.

Conclusion

Canceling an Indiegogo campaign is not a decision to be taken lightly. It requires careful consideration, evaluation of alternatives, and effective communication with backers. However, in certain circumstances, canceling a campaign becomes the best course of action to navigate unexpected challenges or changes in direction. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure a transparent, professional, and respectful cancellation process.

Before canceling a campaign, it’s essential to assess the reasons behind the decision and explore alternative actions that may help salvage or redirect your project. Engaging with your audience, adjusting your strategy, seeking external support, and making necessary modifications can revitalize your campaign and enhance its chances of success.

If canceling the campaign becomes necessary, effective communication with your backers is crucial. Be transparent, provide clear explanations, and offer options such as refunds or future investment opportunities. Keeping your backers informed throughout the process helps maintain trust and preserves the relationships you have built.

Indiegogo provides valuable resources and support through their Help Center and customer support channels. Don’t hesitate to reach out to them for guidance and assistance during the cancellation process or for any campaign-related inquiries.

Remember, the crowdfunding journey may have its ups and downs, but thoughtful decision-making, proactive communication, and a commitment to maintaining integrity will help you navigate the challenges and set the stage for future success.