How Many GoFundMe Campaigns Fail?

We’ve probably all seen someone post a GoFundMe to help with medical expenses, college, or other emergencies. While the company has helped people raise $30 billion dollars since 2010, the majority of campaigns actually fail. Political sociologists Martin Lukk and Erik Schneiderhan interviewed 50 crowdfunding users and surveyed 600. They found that the most economically disadvantaged were less likely to use the service, meaning those who use GoFundMe are actually likely to be more privileged already. Crowdfunding usually begins with family and friends, which means it’s essential to have a close circle of people who are able to give. The researchers estimated that only 17% of health care and emergency GoFundMe’s reached their goals. One interviewer described the process as “shouting into that well of sadness, hoping people will see and hear you.” (Study Finds)