1. What is The Backyard Fund?

The Backyard Fund is a local crowdfunding platform that connects small and large businesses with people who want to make a difference right in their own community. We help bring impactful, shovel-ready projects to life by offering a high-trust, professional alternative to DIY fundraising.
 

2. Who can apply for funding?

Any small or large locally owned business can apply, as long as the project has clear community impact and is supported by the surrounding area. We prioritize projects that improve lives locally and align with our values of integrity, sustainability, and connection.
Businesses must be locally operated and not part of a national franchise or chain—unless the individual franchise owner is deeply involved in and supported by the local community.
 

3. How does funding work?

Once your project is vetted and approved, it’s listed on our platform for community members to support. We use a flat 2% crowdfunding fee, which helps us operate the platform, assist with content, and provide transparency. In some cases, other terms may be discussed based on the size or nature of the project.
 

4. What kinds of projects get funded?

From a new espresso machine at your favorite café to a security system at the local gym—if the project serves the community and helps a business thrive, it’s eligible.
We're focused on funding business-driven initiatives, not schools or nonprofits. Think equipment upgrades, build-outs, tech improvements, or safety systems that allow a business to grow faster, more securely, and without debt.
 

5. How much does it cost to use The Backyard Fund?

There’s no upfront cost. We only collect our flat 2% fee once your project is successfully funded. That means if your $10,000 project is funded, you only pay $200, coming directly from your raised funds.
 

6. What makes The Backyard Fund different from GoFundMe or Kickstarter?

We’re hyper-local. This isn’t a popularity contest or a search algorithm. We’re hands-on with every project, help businesses tell their story, and promote them to the right audience. No noise, no endless scrolling—just local people funding local businesses.

Unlike larger platforms, your project won’t get buried behind thousands of unrelated campaigns. There’s no algorithmic front page deciding what gets seen. Every project on our homepage is from your backyard—literally.
 

7. Can donors see how their money is used?

Yes. We require every funded project to post updates and visual or written proof of how funds were spent. Our platform tracks progress and builds confidence every step of the way.
 

8. Is my donation tax-deductible?

Unless stated otherwise, donations to for-profit businesses are not tax-deductible. Each project page will clearly state whether donations qualify for a tax write-off.
If the project is run through a registered nonprofit, that will be clearly labeled.
 

9. How do I become a featured donor or sponsor?

We love to highlight those who make a consistent difference. Reach out through our Contact page to explore sponsor opportunities and recognition options.
 

10. How do I start my own project?

Click “Start a Project” and complete a short form about your business and funding needs. We’ll respond within 48 hours to schedule a discovery call. From there, we guide you step-by-step to create a polished, fundable project page.
 

11. Why is there a 2% fee on all funded projects?

Our flat 2% fee covers project vetting, donor protections, storytelling support, platform maintenance, and ongoing campaign assistance. Unlike other platforms that charge hidden fees or require you to hit massive goals, we believe in keeping things simple, fair, and affordable.
 

12. Why do I need The Backyard Fund? Can’t I just raise money myself?

You absolutely can—but most business owners don’t. It’s uncomfortable to ask directly, hard to build trust on your own, and time-consuming to manage. The Backyard Fund solves that.

We offer credibility, exposure, structure, and trust—all while making your ask feel professional, not personal. And because your project is vetted, donors can feel confident supporting it without second-guessing where their money is going.

With The Backyard Fund, you don’t have to struggle in silence. We exist to help you move forward—without debt, without awkwardness, and without delay.