Ghent launches crowdfunding platform, raises €100K for local projects in 2020

In 2020, Ghent introduced Belgium's first crowdfunding platform aimed at supporting local community projects. This initiative was spearheaded by Alderman Astrid De Brucker, who highlighted the importance of citizen involvement in fundraising efforts. The platform has successfully raised over €100,000 for various causes, including cultural events, neighborhood improvements, and social or environmental initiatives. By consolidating these projects on a single website, the city facilitates easier access for supporters to contribute and monitor progress. The platform emphasizes community engagement and transparency, allowing donors to see the impact of their contributions. To maintain quality, the city conducts a thorough review of project submissions, ensuring they align with specific standards. Out of 64 submitted projects, only about one-third have been approved, indicating a rigorous selection process. Council member Zeneb Bensafia noted that strict rules are in place to ensure that only projects with a positive societal, cultural, or environmental impact are supported. Projects must be connected to the city and cannot focus on personal interests or religious or political matters. The city collaborates with applicants to establish realistic funding goals, with approximately one in three projects successfully reaching their targets. The platform has also been utilized for significant fundraising efforts, such as raising over €100,000 for flood victims in Wallonia and €14,000 for earthquake relief in Turkey. Overall, Ghent's crowdfunding platform represents a significant step towards enhancing community involvement in local decision-making and fostering a collaborative spirit among citizens. By carefully selecting projects, the city ensures that the platform effectively supports initiatives that genuinely benefit the community.