Web3 Launchpads vs Traditional Crowdfunding: What’s the Difference?

When we compare Web3 launchpads to traditional crowdfunding, we’re really looking at the evolution of how people raise money to support a project. This shift marks a new chapter in startup financing, and it’s super interesting because it shows how far we’ve come from simply asking friends and family for help.

The Origins: Friends, Family, and Fools

Back in the day, launching a project usually started with the “3 Fs”: friends, family, and fools, the closest people in your circle willing to take a bet on you. If things went well, you’d maybe attract attention from incubators or seed accelerators, depending on your stage.

Sometimes you didn’t even have an MVP yet, just an idea, and these early supporters helped shape that vision.

Incubators and accelerators are common in the world of traditional finance. They help build the foundation of a project, support early development, and connect founders with investors. Think of programs like Y Combinator or Techstars.

Traditional Crowdfunding Rewards by Tier

Then came the old-guard crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter and Indiegogo, which democratized early-stage funding. Anyone, anywhere, could contribute and bring the project to life. It was intimate. You identified with the people behind the idea, and in return, you got rewards (tiers) based on how much you contributed.

For example:

1. Pledge $20 → get a thank-you card
2. Pledge $100 → get the product (the first or second version after the MVP)  before launch
3. Pledge $500+ → get a limited edition of the product (with a specific exclusive feature) or see your name in the credits

These campaigns typically set a funding goal and a deadline. If the campaign succeeded, the project proceeded. If it failed, the pledgers were refunded. Sometimes, even early adopters received a discount when the product actually shipped.

Enter Web3: The Evolution of Crowdfunding

Web3 flips the script. It does all of what we just said and turns it up, in the sense of interactivity and economic structure. Creators can put out a token that locks value in their project, not just during the early stages but for the long term.
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Here's how Web3 launchpads stand out:

1. Tokenization

Instead of giving money and hoping the project works out, backers are repaid with tokens,  These tokens can:

• Accumulate value as the project grows
• Give holders voting rights (governance)
• Can be traded, stored, or staked
• Be cashed out for stablecoins, adding a layer of financial security for the backer.

2. Increased Engagement

Web3 isn't just about being an ally, you're part of the community. You can talk directly to devs, participate in Discord servers, vote on governance, and help shape the future of the project.

3. Long-Term Control

In traditional crowdfunding, your investment typically ends at the time when the project is initiated. In Web3, your token may continue to grow in value, and your voice is still worth something as the project develops.

Examples of Web3 Launchpads

There are dozens of Web3 launchpads out there today, each with its own model and niche. A few major platforms include:

• ChainGPT Pad: A launchpad focused on AI and Web3 innovation. ChainGPT Pad is known for its rigorous project selection and AI-powered infrastructure, with standout launches including Shieldeum and Cookie DAO.
• DAO Maker:  Known for launchpad services for DeFi and Web3 projects. DAO Maker claims to have supported over 100 projects, including SpeedThrone and PinEye.
• Polkastarter:  A decentralized platform that helps new crypto projects raise funds through token sales. It hosts projects like Cookie DAO and Welf Finance.
• Seedify: Focused on gaming and metaverse projects, with launches like MicroGPT and DeFAI.
• CoinTerminal is a next-gen, community-focused launchpad designed to make Web3 investing more accessible. As an open-source platform with no staking requirements, CoinTerminal combines education, transparency, and discovery tools to help everyday users back early-stage crypto projects, just like the big funds.

CoinTerminal at a Glance:

• $80M+ Total Value Distributed
• 80 Ventures Funded
• 620K+ global investors

CoinTerminal stands out as part of the new wave of curated and user-friendly launchpads, helping users make informed decisions, not just follow hype, and actually become part of the Web3 revolution.

Final Thoughts

Crowdfunding proved that communities can fund ideas. Web3 takes it further; it turns communities into stakeholders.

If you are ready to move beyond traditional crowdfunding and launch your project through a platform built for transparency, scale, and long-term value, CoinTerminal is where to start.

As the world’s only open-access launchpad, CoinTerminal connects founders directly with over 620,000 verified users ready to participate in early-stage token sales. No staking, no token gating, and no pre-sale KYC, just a fast, fair, and transparent launch process.

Our refundable sale structure helps build investor trust, while our monthly crypto lottery keeps users engaged across all listings. This means more visibility and more lasting community interest in your project.

Launch your IDO on CoinTerminal and tap into a global network of Web3 investors who are ready to believe, back, and build with you.

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