Project creators are responsible for implementing their projects and using the funds they receive. If a project is delayed, a thank-you note is missing, or there is a risk of insolvency, you should first check the project’s current status and contact the project team directly. Your rights depend on the nature of your support and the specific circumstances of each case.
Who is responsible for implementing the project?
The project creators are responsible for carrying out their projects; Startnext is not.
These include, in particular:
- the implementation of the announced project,
- the production, fulfillment, and delivery of the thank-you gifts,
- the appropriate use of the funds disbursed,
- Regular project updates, as well as honest and transparent communication in the event of problems or delays.
Startnext provides the platform and offers support through rules and processes. However, Startnext is not responsible for project implementation or the use of funds.
What kind of agreement is created by my support?
The type of legal agreement that is formed depends on the nature of your support. Possible options include, for example, a purchase or service contract in exchange for a token of appreciation, sponsorship, voluntary support, a gift subject to conditions, or a designated-purpose donation.
If you’ve selected a thank-you gift that promises a specific product or service, in many cases this creates a legally binding contract with the project creators. This may give rise to a right to receive the product or service.
Startnext acts as the platform and intermediary, but is not a party to the "thank you" agreement.
What types of checks does Startnext conduct?
Startnext reviews projects as part of its processes, but does not continuously monitor every single expense or the entire project implementation.
The exams include, among other things:
- the identity verification process, also known as Know Your Customer (KYC), through the payment service provider,
- compliance with the Startnext guidelines,
- Internal plausibility checks.
Startnext does not award grants itself, but rather facilitates support for projects. Project proposals are not always fully reviewed in advance for plausibility or feasibility. You can find more information about the division of roles under “Trust and Security at Startnext.”
What can I do if there are delays or if I don't receive a thank-you note?
First, contact the founders and ask for specific, transparent information about the current status.
- 1Check the project page and project updates for the latest information.
- 2Send a message to the project team using the messaging module.
- 3Ask about the status of implementation, the reasons for the delay, and a realistic new timeline.
- 4If you do not receive a thank-you note, please inquire whether and when the delivery or service can still be provided.
Applicants should explain what has already been implemented, how the funds were used, why the project is delayed or cannot be completed as planned, and what steps can still be taken.
If funds are still available, an alternative implementation or a refund may be considered. The project team must determine whether this is legally and practically feasible on a case-by-case basis.
What happens if the project can't be carried out as planned?
A crowdfunding project can fail despite careful planning. In such cases, the project creators must provide their backers with information that is open, truthful, and transparent.
- What happened?
- Which parts of the project have already been implemented?
- How were the funds disbursed used?
- Why can't the project or a thank-you note be completed as planned?
- What other options, deliveries, or refunds are still available?
- When is the next update coming?
If specific products or services were agreed upon as a token of appreciation, contractual claims may still exist. In the case of unsolicited support or payments designated for a specific purpose, the legal classification may differ.
What happens to my money if the project goes bankrupt?
After disbursement, unrestricted grants become part of the assets of the recipient individual or organization. In the event of insolvency, these assets may be included in the insolvency estate and distributed in accordance with statutory provisions.
If a promised product or service is not delivered due to insolvency, an outstanding claim may exist against the insolvent project sponsor. This claim must generally be filed with the insolvency administrator. Backers are often considered unsecured creditors in such cases.
What does Startnext do when it receives reports of problems?
Startnext first helps facilitate clear communication between backers and project creators. Many conflicts can be resolved through transparent information and direct communication.
If a dispute arises, Startnext will provide information to the best of its ability:
- Supporters about their rights and possible next steps,
- Participants on their obligations under the respective agreements.
Startnext can provide the project team with support in terms of communication and structure, but does not handle project implementation, the use of funds, or the fulfillment of rewards. You can find the latest information on the project page and in the project updates; you can direct any questions to the project team directly through the messaging module.