CrowdDrive
Empowering Innovation Through a Thriving Crowdfunding Ecosystem
Our Mission at CrowdDrive
In today’s hyper-connected world, geographic boundaries no longer limit the potential of vibrant communities. CrowdDrive leverages this connectivity to foster a sustainable and impactful crowdfunding ecosystem in Northwest Pennsylvania. Our platform not only connects innovators with backers but also supports the growth of emerging ventures. By guiding start-ups through crowd-funded projects, we provide a vital source of pre-seed funding and proof-of-concept. This support accelerates their development and strengthens the entrepreneurial landscape of our region.
Accessible Pre-seed Financing
CrowdDrive offers start-ups a unique opportunity to secure early-stage funding through community crowdfunding. This financing helps entrepreneurs test market interest, gain investor trust, and overcome traditional funding challenges, leading to business growth and success.
Mentorship and Entrepreneurial Support
Alongside funding, CrowdDrive connects entrepreneurs with personalized mentorship and industry experts. This support helps them navigate the complexities of early-stage development and lay a strong foundation for sustained success.
About Us
CrowdDrive is a collaborative service offering between the Erie Technology Incubator (ETI) and the Dahlkemper School of Business at Gannon University. Our goal is to provide viable pre-seed financing through crowdfunding for start-up companies and entrepreneurs in Northwestern Pennsylvania.
Creators are the start-up companies and entrepreneurs in Northwestern Pennsylvania with unique value propositions. We help them:
- Analyze their business and ideas to determine their ability to complete a successful crowdfunding campaign.
- Recommend the most appropriate crowdfunding source.
- Plan, develop, and manage crowdfunding projects.
- Develop launch events.
- Connect creators with our donor base.
Donors are true believers of our startup community, whether they reside in Northwestern Pennsylvania or not. We work with them to:
- Determine their interests to match them with creators.
- Promote the story of the entrepreneurial community in Northwest Pennsylvania.
- Hold events for donors and potential donors.
- Create leaders and influencers among donors.
- Cultivate donors through ongoing engagement.
CrowdDrive is funded through the Erie Community Foundation to establish the CrowdDrive
infrastructure and business model. Creators who engage with CrowdDrive to develop and manage
crowdfunding campaigns are responsible for $1,500 entry fee for the campaign, 5% of goal (when reached) and 25% of any revenue achieved above the goal during the 30-day campaign.
Our Projects
At CrowdDrive, we believe in the power of collective effort to bring innovative ideas to life. Our latest projects exemplify this belief, showcasing the transformative impact of community-driven crowdfunding. By partnering with local visionaries in Northwest Pennsylvania, we’ve helped bridge the gap between groundbreaking concepts and tangible success. These projects not only received the crucial pre-seed funding they needed but also gained invaluable market validation, setting the stage for further growth.
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Erie Technology Incubator
Erie, PA
The Erie Technology Incubator serves Northwest Pennsylvania with a unique blend of strategic guidance, dedicated mentor teams, 1:1 coaching, and networking opportunities. It provides early-stage technology-enabled companies with critical resources and support to guide them through key milestones and phases of their entrepreneurial journey.
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Gannon University
Dalkemper School of Business
The Dahlkemper School of Business at Gannon University serves as a center of ethical business leadership and innovation to provide an excellent education in all areas of business from a values-centered and global perspective and to develop leaders to transform the world of business.
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Erie Community Foundation
Erie, PA
CrowdDrive is funded through an Erie Community Foundation Helping Today grant. The Erie Community Foundation is a collection of 800 charitable endowments operating under the administrative umbrella of a single public charity. The Foundation’s mission is to inspire, engage, and empower donors and communities across the region, today and tomorrow.
CrowdDrive
Testimonial
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Paul McMahon
"The Erie Technology Incubator and CrowdDrive team were essential partners in the success of my Kickstarter campaign for Kevo. As a first-time campaigner, I had no prior experience, but they gave me the confidence and encouragement I needed to move forward. The creative support from the ETI team, including the talented Gannon University students they brought on board, far exceeded my expectations. I was provided with a dedicated videographer and social media manager who elevated my campaign in ways I couldn’t have achieved on my own, especially at such an affordable cost.
The students' passion and professionalism were clear as we collaborated on developing impactful creative strategies. ETI also helped set up the campaign page and provided invaluable, ongoing support throughout the process. Their team expanded my campaign's reach by fostering connections across the Erie community and beyond. I’m incredibly grateful for their commitment and expertise. Thank you CrowdDrive!"
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Tess Frawley
"Gannon's approach to raising Kickstarter funds for my business was incredibly professional, streamlined, structured, and well-thought out. The team was considerate, creative, and well-rounded in their individual skills sets. I especially appreciated the follow-up engagement and encouragement long after successfully raising the funds through Kickstarter. I felt well cared for throughout the entire process, and could have not done it without the team's consistent enthusiasm and many contributions. I am so glad to be connected to this entrepreneurial support network, because, as an individual operating a small enterprise, I could not have completed this mission on my own.
The support from the Erie Technology Incubator and CrowdDrive didn’t end with the Kickstarter campaign. Their continued mentorship helped me navigate the next steps of my business, offering advice on branding and growth. Their guidance made the process less daunting, and I’m grateful to be part of a community that truly fosters entrepreneurship."
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Karen Thomas
"Pineapple Eddie Bistro has been an amazing venture that has surpassed my expectations. As a first-time business owner, I had limited knowledge of running a restaurant, but the incredible support from the Erie community made all the difference. The creative collaboration with talented local chefs and staff brought our menu to life, offering unique and delicious meals that reflect our passion for food. I was fortunate to have a dedicated team that helped elevate the bistro, from managing our social media to ensuring every dish met the highest standards, all while maintaining an affordable dining experience.
The staff’s enthusiasm and dedication to our mission were clear as we worked together to create an inviting atmosphere. Our team continues to provide valuable support, expanding our reach and fostering connections within the community and beyond. I am truly grateful for their hard work and expertise, which have been key to our success. Thank you to everyone who has helped Pineapple Eddie thrive!"
Contact
We're always on the lookout to work with new clients. Please get in touch in one of the following ways.
Office
Please visit us to have a discussion.
900 State St, Erie, PA 16501
Opening Hours
Please make an appointment before coming.