Startland News is kicking off a new segment to highlight area entrepreneurs’ efforts to accelerate their businesses. This is an opportunity for entrepreneurs to share their stories to gain a little help from their supporters. If you or your startup is running a crowdfunding campaign, let us know by contacting news@startlandnews.com
Who: Crystal K. Wiebe, Founder of Beer Paws
What: Beer Paws makes craft beer treats for dogs. We partner with Midwest breweries to recycle their waste product — spent grains — into high-protein, high-fiber Beer Biscuits. We are also the Midwest’s only producers of Beer for Dogs (non-alcoholic, of course), and offer a myriad of fun accessories for two- and four-legged drinking buddies, including bottle openers for dog collars.
How much: Our goal is to raise $30,000 in 30 days. All funds will be used to expand Beer Paws’ production capacity. We have severely outgrown my home kitchen and have plans to build a more suitable facility on property that I already own.
How it’s different: We’ll be promoting the campaign heavily at the many festivals and ‘pop-up shops’ Beer Paws is attending throughout October. … At live events such as beer festivals, if people choose to donate “on the spot,” they will receive a free gift in addition to any perks that their donation qualifies them for.
Advice on crowdfunding campaigns: Gather a dedicated support team to help you out. Even if you are a one-person startup, you’ll need lots of people to get through this exciting and nerve-wracking month!