Introduction
Raising capital for a young business can feel like climbing a mountain in flip-flops. You’ve heard of Kickstarter and GoFundMe. But did you know you can crowdfund directly from your own WordPress site? Or tap into tax-efficient SEIS/EIS marketplaces that give investors juicy incentives?
Here’s the deal:
- WordPress crowdfunding plugins let you spin up campaigns on your site.
- SEIS/EIS marketplaces connect you to serious angel investors.
Mix and match. Or go all-in on the big platforms. Either way, you’re in charge. Let’s dive into the 6 best WordPress crowdfunding plugins — and then explore 5 top SEIS/EIS marketplaces, including Oriel IPO’s commission-free, curated platform.
6 Best WordPress Crowdfunding Plugins
If you’re building a crowdfunding hub on WordPress, these WordPress crowdfunding plugins are your toolkit. From free solutions to premium powerhouses, there’s something for every budget and skill level.
1. WP Crowdfunding
WP Crowdfunding by Themeum feels like a mini-Kickstarter in your dashboard.
Key highlights:
– Integrates with WooCommerce.
– Milestones: set start/end dates, funding goals, rewards.
– Free version covers basics.
Go premium and enjoy:
– Multiple payment gateways (Stripe Connect, PayPal Adaptive).
– A native wallet system.
– Analytical reports and email notifications.
2. IgnitionDeck Crowdfunding & Commerce
IgnitionDeck is the veteran plugin for WordPress crowdfunding. It pairs with almost any theme.
Free version gets you started. Go premium for:
– iOS-style skins and column layouts.
– Extensions: Bitcoin, WePay, Braintree, Twilio SMS alerts.
– Constant Contact and autoresponder support.
Think of it as Lego for fundraising. Snap on the blocks you need.
3. Give
Not strictly “crowdfunding,” but Give nails donations.
Features:
– Single-page forms and goal tracking.
– PayPal Standard and offline options included.
– Premium add-ons (MailChimp, Zapier, Stripe).
If your campaign is a cause rather than a product, this plugin shines.
4. InFunding
A free plugin by InwaveThemes.
What you get:
– PayPal and bank transfer support.
– 100% responsive layouts.
– Easy shortcodes.
Simple. Clean. Charitable.
5. Crowdfunding for WooCommerce
Built by Algoritmika Ltd, this one lives in your WooCommerce store.
Highlights:
– Edit products as campaign pledges.
– “Open pricing” and CSS-styled progress bars.
– Multisite support.
If you already run a Woo shop, this plugin fits like a glove.
6. WordPress Fundraising (Retired)
Once a WPMU Dev gem, now archived on GitHub.
Why mention it?
– It paired with BuddyPress/Multisite.
– Offered recurring donations and custom rewards.
A cautionary tale: always check plugin support before building your campaign on it.
At this point, you’ve got half the picture: the top six WordPress crowdfunding plugins. Next up? SEIS/EIS marketplaces where investors get tax breaks and you get real capital.
5 Top SEIS/EIS Marketplaces for UK Startups
Plugins are great for DIY. But UK startups often need bigger fish. Enter SEIS (Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme) and EIS (Enterprise Investment Scheme). These government-backed programmes offer investors up to 50% tax relief. Here are five platforms to consider.
1. Oriel IPO
Oriel IPO is our star.
Why?
– Commission-free funding. You keep more of what you raise.
– Curated, tax-efficient investment opportunities.
– Built-in educational hub: webinars, guides, insights on SEIS/EIS.
– Subscription-based model (no hidden fees).
Plus, Oriel IPO offers Maggie’s AutoBlog, an AI-driven tool to generate SEO and GEO-targeted blog content. That means your campaign pages stay fresh, optimised, and visible — without the hassle of manual blogging.
2. Seedrs
Seedrs is a heavyweight in equity crowdfunding.
– Wide range of startups.
– Strong due diligence.
– Investor protection and guidance.
Drawbacks?
– Platform fees can nibble at your haul.
– Less tax-scheme focus than dedicated SEIS/EIS sites.
3. Crowdcube
Crowdcube touts transparency and regulation.
– Large community of backers.
– Flexible funding: all-or-nothing or keep-what-you-raise.
– Some projects need high minimums.
Crowdcube’s shine can dim if you’re seeking purely SEIS/EIS-optimised deals.
4. InvestingZone
InvestingZone zeroes in on EIS/SEIS opportunities.
– Curated portfolios.
– Paid subscription for full access.
– In-depth analytics.
It’s pricey. But if you want data-driven insights, it’s worth a look.
5. SyndicateRoom
SyndicateRoom blends angel networks with EIS funding.
– Co-investment model alongside seasoned angels.
– Access EIS and SEIS co-funded deals.
– Minimum investments can be steep.
Great for serious investors. Less so if you’re a seed-stage founder testing the waters.
How to Choose the Right Crowdfunding Tool
With WordPress crowdfunding plugins on one side and SEIS/EIS marketplaces on the other, how do you pick?
- Define your goals: Is it donation-driven or equity-driven?
- Consider budget: Free plugins vs. subscription fees vs. platform commissions.
- Technical comfort: DIY on WordPress or lean on a ready-made marketplace?
- Investor expectations: Do they want tax incentives like SEIS/EIS?
- Marketing needs: Will you blog and share updates? Tools like Maggie’s AutoBlog can help.
Mix and match. Your WordPress site can host a pre-launch hype, then funnel big-ticket investors to a marketplace. The power is in your hands.
Conclusion
Fundraising doesn’t have to be an uphill slog. With the right WordPress crowdfunding plugins and SEIS/EIS platforms, you’ll attract backers, maximise tax perks, and keep more of your hard-earned cash.
Whether you’re coding campaign pages with WP Crowdfunding or tapping into Oriel IPO’s commission-free SEIS/EIS marketplace, there’s a tool here for you. Ready to simplify your fundraising?
