South Africa has a small crowdfunding market, and each platform works on a different model. Picking the wrong one is the most common early mistake: a business raising money to fulfil an order has nothing to gain from a donation site, and a community project will not suit an investment platform. This is a directory of the platforms operating locally, grouped by what they do. For how crowdfunding works and the legal side, see our guide to crowdfunding in South Africa.
Rewards-based: Thundafund
Thundafund helps creatives and innovators raise money from backers in exchange for rewards, such as an early product, a limited edition or an experience. It suits product launches and creative projects with a clear story and an audience ready to back them. The platform takes a commission on the funds raised, so check its current fees before you set your target.
Donation-based: BackaBuddy
BackaBuddy is the best-known donation platform, used for causes, community projects and personal needs rather than commercial fundraising.
Purchase-order crowdfunding: The People’s Fund
The People’s Fund finances confirmed purchase orders for black-owned small businesses using money pooled from individual investors. Our comparison of BackaBuddy and The People’s Fund explains how both work in detail.
What no longer operates
Several platforms that featured in earlier lists, including the equity platform Uprise.Africa, are no longer operating. Before you build a campaign around any platform, confirm on its own website that it is taking new campaigns.
How to choose between them
- Launching a product with a loyal audience: rewards-based.
- A cause, community or social project: donation-based.
- Delivering a confirmed order you cannot yet fund: purchase-order crowdfunding.
Our guide on how to choose a crowdfunding platform covers fees, payout rules and audience in more detail.
Frequently asked questions
Can a South African business use international platforms?
Some international platforms only accept creators from certain countries, so check eligibility first. Local platforms also pay out in rand.
Do I give up equity through these platforms?
No. Rewards and donation platforms involve no equity, and purchase-order crowdfunding shares the profit on a single deal.
What does crowdfunding cost?
Platform commissions and payment processing fees, which vary by platform. Build them into your target.
Which platform suits a community project?
A donation-based platform such as BackaBuddy.
How do I run a campaign that succeeds?
Build your audience before launch, set a realistic target and cost every reward.
Originally published in November 2020. Updated September 2026.
