In this episode, Kevin Valley engages with Bill Huston, a leading expert in the field of investment crowdfunding and recognized by Inc. magazine as one of the top 19 global crowdfunding professionals. Together, they explore the various forms of crowdfunding—donation, rewards, and investment—and discuss their unique advantages, particularly for underserved communities.

Bill sheds light on his journey from Cincinnati to becoming a prominent figure in the crowdfunding industry, emphasizing the significance of community, mentorship, and access to capital.

The discussion also highlights the need for increased awareness and education about crowdfunding among government bodies and financiers.

Bill outlines strategies to use crowdfunding as a demonstration of due diligence and the role of robust business plans. He acknowledges regional advancements, particularly in the Caribbean, and predicts a future with more opportunities for non-accredited investors through community-driven models.

Throughout the episode, Bill underscores that while not everyone may become an entrepreneur, everyone has the potential to be an investor.

Key Takeaways:

• Investment crowdfunding goes beyond financial returns by contributing to community wealth-building.


• The 'crowdfit' strategy is effective in helping small businesses hit their initial funding targets by engaging closely with their primary and secondary networks.


• There is a big opportunity for crowdfunding in international markets, although regulatory challenges need to be addressed.


• Crowdfunding has the potential to democratize access to investment opportunities, making it crucial for economic growth and community development.

Resources Mentioned:

• Fund Black Founders


• Kickstarter


• Indiegogo


• WeFunder


• Raiseway


• Crowdfund Better


• 10K Project

Chapters:

02:41 Bill Huston's Early Life and Career
07:50 Entrepreneurial Journey Begins
14:14 Crowdfunding Ventures and Challenges
21:15 The Power of Community Capital
31:07 Rewards vs. Investment Crowdfunding
39:22 The Power of Crowdfunding
40:54 Understanding SAFE Agreements
43:12 Challenges in Crowdfunding
43:19 The Role of Raiseway
44:31 Crowdfunding Statistics
45:15 The Importance of Community Support
46:03 Crowdfunding Education and Engagement
51:19 Crowdfit Investment Strategy
55:35 Ideal Products for Crowdfunding
01:01:25 Crowdfunding in the Caribbean
01:11:06 Future of Crowdfunding
01:15:00 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

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