Crowdfunding platforms make it possible for individuals and organizations of any size to harness social networks and raise start-up capital for projects that might otherwise fail due to lack of funding. Each week, Xpress highlights notable Western North Carolina crowdsourcing initiatives that may inspire readers to become new faces in the crowd.
TwistekCase
Advancing technologies in cell phones have made documenting life’s every moment — from breathtaking experiences to daily coffee breaks — into a national pastime. The TwistekCase, developed by local couple Judi and Dan Bruns, seeks to further empower active phone users to get the most out of their handheld companions while reducing the risk of cracked or broken devices. Not only does the Bruns’ phone case clip onto most any size strap, allowing users to check notifications and take calls with ease, but the case’s 360-degree hinge also allows users to shoot photos or videos from countless vantage points. Did I mention the selfie extender feature? The Bruns aim to raise $15,000 by Thursday, Aug. 20, to improve pre-production prototypes, manufacture the TwistekCases and fulfill customer orders.
Asheville Edge Lacrosse
The mission of Asheville Edge Lacrosse, according to the youth group’s crowdfunding campaign page, “is educating girls in the game of lacrosse while building strong character, positive self-esteem and healthy habits. … Our focus is to teach girls to be strong workers both on and off the field.” The Western North Carolina sports club, which offers camps and clinics and accepts players regardless of ability to pay, aims to raise $2,000 by Saturday, Aug. 8, to help fund financial assistance scholarships and free community clinics and to build a website for the team.
Send your crowdsourcing campaign news to kmcreynolds@mountainx.com. A limited number of campaigns will be highlighted each week, at Xpress’ discretion. Campaigns must be locally based and should represent a current project with an achievable goal. Conditions are subject to change. Read about more Western North Carolina projects here.
