PR for Crowdfunded Projects in Age of Kickstarter
Monday. March 11
3:30 – 3:4p5
Hilton Austin Downtown
616AB

Anyone familiar with public relations knows the importance of building relationships and getting a message out. Typically PR agencies are known for their work with already established companies. However, within the last year PR specialists have gained momentum in the rise of the Kickstarter age. With the increase of crowdfunded projects, more and more ideas can be made into reality. Since July 2012 more than $200 million has been raised for flourishing projects. This has caused a collision of two worlds; the world of public relations, which has tapped into people’s creativity and willingness to share ideas. While the entrepreneur world has realized the importance of specific public relations type skills they might have previously lacked. Connie Zheng, Associate at North Of Nine Communications, has taken notice of the Kickstarter age and wants to offer her PR expertise and perspective during her panel “PR for Crowdfunded Projects in Age of Kickstarter”. North Of Nine Communications focuses on technology-based innovations, building creative and memorable campaigns for their clients.

“Having a PR professional involved in crowdfunded projects is still relatively new for people,” said Zheng. “They are doing interesting things and it is important for people in our industry to bring awareness to these kinds of projects.” The key role PR plays in crowdfunded projects is planning needed before a launch. “Typically PR is an afterthought, but it is important to build relationships beforehand, especially with reporters.” This brings more awareness and helps build anticipation.

During her panel, Zheng will share key strategies and tactics that can be used to support crowdfunded projects. “Thinking about an overall PR strategy is important,” Zheng concluded. “This step is often forgotten.” Much can be gained from this panel, for entrepreneurs and PR practitioners alike.