Karsten Wenzlaff, Advisor
August 26th, 2025
Investment Crowdfunding | Nov 2, 2023

Crowdfund Capital Advisors Founding Partner, Sherwood Neiss (NCFA Advisor) has released another data-driven update on Regulated Crowdfunding (RegCF) in the US. This time looking at investment trends by age bracket.
RegCF (otherwise known as Equity Crowdfunding) has emerged as a democratic force in the investment domain, enabling both retail and accredited investors across America to participate in the funding of startups and small enterprises. Since its establishment in 2016, this sector has demonstrated impressive growth, diversifying the investment ecosystem and offering a wealth of data on investor behavior across various demographics.
A thorough analysis, conducted in collaboration with three major online investment platforms—Wefunder, StartEngine, and Republic—has provided a granular view of investor engagement and capital deployment.
Wefunder leads with higher average investments across all age groups, particularly excelling in the 40-49 age bracket.
Republic, with its lower average investment, attracts a younger demographic, boasting twice the average number of investors under 30.
StartEngine strikes a balance, with a fairly even distribution of investors across the 30-59 age groups, maintaining a consistent average investment size.
Understanding the investment behaviors across different age demographics and platforms can give both entrepreneurs and investors valuable insights to optimize platform selection and participation to increase their chance at succeeding in this growing area.
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
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Funding | Oct 23, 2023

Image: Unsplash/qinghill
DealMaker is poised for continued growth and innovation in the fintech space, backed by strategic financing and support from CIBC Innovation Banking and Google.
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
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Oct 11, 2023

Image: Pixabay/Tumisu
In an age where digital innovation and social networking have transformed the way we connect and collaborate, it comes as no surprise that charitable organizations are also reaping the benefits of this technological revolution. Crowdfunding, a dynamic and increasingly popular fundraising method, has emerged as a game-changer for charities worldwide. Gone are the days of relying solely on traditional donation drives and grant applications; today, nonprofits are harnessing the power of the crowd to fuel their noble missions.
In this blog post, we'll discuss how crowdfunding can benefit charities. Without further ado, let's get started.
Crowdfunding offers a significant boost to charities in terms of financial support. By leveraging the power of online platforms, these organizations can tap into a vast network of potential donors who are willing to contribute to their causes. This expanded reach not only facilitates higher donation volumes but also attracts donors with diverse financial capacities.
Also, you can engage lawyers working with charities to ensure that the fundraising efforts adhere to legal standards and regulations, offering expertise in compliance and governance. The additional financial resources acquired through crowdfunding can be channeled directly into the charity's programs and initiatives, driving their missions forward.
One of the remarkable advantages of crowdfunding for charities is the ability to reach a global audience. Traditional fundraising methods are often limited by geographical boundaries, but online crowdfunding platforms break down these barriers.
Charities can now connect with potential donors from all corners of the world, transcending the constraints of location. This global reach broadens their horizons, allowing them to tap into international support networks and cultivate a truly diverse donor base.
Moreover, it enables charities to address global issues and collaborate with individuals who share their passion, regardless of their physical location. The far-reaching impact of crowdfunding extends beyond financial contributions, fostering a sense of global community and solidarity among supporters who believe in a common cause.
Crowdfunding provides charities with a cost-effective alternative to traditional fundraising methods. Unlike costly events, direct mail campaigns, or telemarketing, crowdfunding leverages online platforms to minimize overhead expenses. This approach reduces the need for physical materials, venue rentals, and extensive manpower, ensuring that a higher percentage of funds raised can directly benefit the charity's mission.
In addition, the streamlined nature of crowdfunding campaigns allows for rapid deployment, enabling charities to respond swiftly to pressing needs, such as disaster relief or urgent medical expenses. With lower overhead costs and the potential to reach a wider audience, charities can allocate more resources to their core initiatives, amplifying their impact in the process.
Crowdfunding serves as a dynamic tool for charities to engage supporters and raise awareness of their mission. It encourages active participation from donors who become emotionally invested in the causes they support. Through storytelling, videos, and social media outreach, crowdfunding campaigns create a compelling narrative around the charity's work, making it relatable and shareable.
This not only drives donations but also increases the visibility of the charity's activities, leading to heightened awareness within the public. As more individuals engage with the campaign by sharing and discussing it, the charity's message spreads virally, catalyzing a ripple effect that extends far beyond traditional fundraising efforts, ultimately bolstering the organization's profile and impact.
In times of crisis and emergencies, crowdfunding offers charities a swift and efficient means of mobilizing financial resources. Traditional fundraising methods often entail extensive planning and logistics, which can hinder rapid response to urgent situations. Crowdfunding, on the other hand, allows charities to launch campaigns with speed and agility.
Whether it's responding to natural disasters, medical emergencies, or unforeseen crises, charities can appeal for immediate support from a global online community. This capability to secure funds promptly enables charities to provide vital relief, aid, and support when it's needed most, potentially mitigating the impact of emergencies and improving the well-being of those affected.
Crowdfunding platforms offer charities the advantage of cultivating a diverse donor base. These campaigns attract individual donors from a wide array of backgrounds, demographics, and financial capacities. This diversity in the donor pool strengthens the financial stability of charities, reducing reliance on a few large donors and mitigating potential funding gaps.
Furthermore, it creates a sense of inclusivity, as supporters from various walks of life come together to back a shared cause. Charities also have the opportunity to engage corporate sponsors, further enhancing the diversity of their supporters. This mix of individual and corporate support contributes to a more resilient and sustainable funding model, allowing charities to pursue their missions with greater confidence.
Many crowdfunding platforms encourage charities to provide detailed information about how the funds raised will be used. This commitment to transparency builds trust with donors, as they can track the impact of their contributions in real-time. Donors appreciate knowing that their money is going directly toward the intended cause, which can lead to more substantial and ongoing support.
In addition, charities are held to high standards of reporting, ensuring that they remain accountable for their actions and expenditures. The emphasis on transparency within crowdfunding fosters a culture of responsibility and trustworthiness within the charitable sector.

Image: Pixabay/Geralt
Crowdfunding empowers supporters to become active agents in supporting causes they care deeply about. It shifts the traditional donor-recipient relationship to one of co-creation and engagement. Donors, often emotionally connected to the cause, are encouraged to share and promote campaigns through their personal networks, becoming advocates for change. This grassroots involvement creates a sense of community around the charity's mission.
Supporters not only contribute financially but also amplify the charity's message, significantly extending its reach. Their participation not only aids in fundraising but also fosters a sense of ownership, commitment, and belonging within the charity's cause, ultimately strengthening the organization's overall impact and sustainability.
Crowdfunding has emerged as a transformative force for charities, offering a multitude of benefits that extend well beyond traditional fundraising methods. From accessing a global audience to fostering a diverse donor base, it enhances financial stability while promoting accountability and transparency. Furthermore, crowdfunding campaigns empower supporters to play an active role in advancing causes they are passionate about, creating a sense of community and shared responsibility. In an ever-evolving landscape of charitable giving, crowdfunding stands as a powerful and dynamic tool that continues to shape the way charities connect with their supporters and achieve their missions.
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
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Aug 31, 2023

Image: Unsplash/Airfocus
Funding a project is one of the most sought-after objectives for many creative minds, and having the right idea on how to do it can create great opportunities. Have you ever wanted to pursue an entrepreneurial venture or create something innovative but lacked funds? If so, this blog post is for you! Here, we’ll discuss 6 different ways that one can use to fund any project no matter its scope – from small local initiatives in your community to ambitious global projects with significant capital requirements. Whether you're starting as an entrepreneur or have experience under your belt, this guide will provide valuable insight into what options are available when raising money for a passion project. So let's dive in and explore together how we can find success with the support of powerful potential sponsors.
Exploring your area of interest can be a thrilling journey. Researching and discovering new methods, technologies, and innovations that can help further your cause is every researcher's dream. However, this passion can come with its own set of challenges. Lack of funding and resources can hinder your progress and leave you feeling stuck. But with research grants for businesses and organizations in your field of interest, you can put those worries to rest. These grants can provide you with the necessary funding and support to take your research to new heights. Imagine the possibility of having the resources you need to conduct rigorous studies and experiments. With research grants, you can make your vision a reality and make a valuable contribution to your field.
Commercial real estate loans are a financing option for businesses and organizations that need to purchase property. If you have a project that requires the acquisition of an existing building or a piece of land, then this could be an ideal solution for your funding needs. According to the folks from CommLoan, the benefits of opting for commercial real estate loans include lower interest rates than traditional business loans, more flexible repayment terms, and access to larger loan amounts. Furthermore, you'll have the added security of owning your outdoor or indoor space that's tailored to fit your project's needs. Acquiring a commercial real estate loan is an ideal option for those seeking funding for their projects that require acquiring physical space.
While grants may be the most beneficial option for those who are looking to fund a long-term research project or business venture, microloans can also prove to be useful. These small-amount loans are offered from banks and other private lenders and usually require less paperwork compared to traditional loans. Microloans offer flexibility in terms of loan amount, repayment duration, and interest rates – which makes them great for those who may not qualify for traditional loans. Whether you need to pay off some bills, purchase essential equipment, or hire an extra team member, a microloan can provide the necessary funds and support in your time of need.
Crowdfunding can be a powerful tool to turn your creative ideas into reality while also engaging with your network. It's a fantastic way to reach out to people and showcase your passion project. One of the best aspects of crowdfunding is the opportunity to offer perks to your donors in exchange for their support. These perks serve as a way to show appreciation to your donors while also helping to incentivize donations. The possibilities for perks are endless and can range from a simple thank-you note to exclusive merchandise or experiences. The key is to think about what your potential donors would value most and make it worth their while. Through crowdfunding, you can leverage the power of your network and turn your dreams into a reality.
Equity funding is a fantastic way to get the financial support you need for your big plans. Instead of taking on loans or racking up debt on a credit card, you can offer shares of ownership in your company or project in exchange for investment. This not only helps you secure the funding you need, but it also gets other people excited about your ideas and involved in your success. Plus, with more people invested in your venture, there are more resources to draw from, including valuable advice and guidance from experienced investors. So if you're ready to take your dream to the next level, consider equity funding and invite others to come along for the journey.
Angel investors are individuals or organizations that provide capital to get projects off the ground in exchange for equity. They tend to invest at an early stage, often when a startup is just getting started and needs help with funding. Angel investors usually have more experience in business than venture capitalists, which can be beneficial if you're looking to get advice on how to go about setting up your venture. Plus, their investment isn't limited to money; they can also provide valuable resources and connections that can help you get ahead in the industry. So if you're looking for an experienced mentor to guide you through the process of launching a successful business or project, consider seeking out angel investors who can support you along the way.

Image: Unsplash/Alexander Schimmeck
All of these options come with their own unique set of challenges and rewards. While there is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to funding a project, understanding your options is essential. Whichever option you choose, mapping out a successful plan for long-term success requires dedication and hard work. Start by setting realistic goals and making sure that you’re clear on each step that needs to be taken to achieve them. We encourage our readers to take the initiative to explore the rest of this series and see which type of funding will resonate best with your project or business. And remember, you have the power to chart your course - good luck!
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
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Insight | Jul 24, 2023

Image: Unsplash/Giammarco Boscaro
The legal industry's increasing reliance on AI, such as OpenAI's ChatGPT, has inadvertently led to the exposure of confidential data. Many legal professionals, while appreciating the speed and efficiency of AI in legal research and document drafting, failed to realize that their interactions with these tools could be recalled and used for AI training.
OpenAI introduced an option to disable chat history for ChatGPT on April 25, 2023, to safeguard confidential data. However, many law firms were not aware of this development and continued to unknowingly feed their data to the AI. This situation has been exacerbated by the fact that many law firms have not prohibited the use of AI tools like ChatGPT, thereby increasing the risk of data exposure.
Simultaneously, law firms are experiencing a surge in cyberattacks, with a record number of data breaches reported in a short span. The UK's National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) recently revealed that nearly 75% of the UK's top 100 law firms have been impacted by cyberattacks, a trend that is likely mirrored in the U.S.
The aftermath of these breaches has seen a rise in class action lawsuits against law firms. For instance, Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner faced a class action lawsuit following a data breach that compromised the data of over 51,000 current and former employees. The firm was accused of negligence, breach of implied contract, breach of contract, unjust enrichment, and invasion of privacy.
The combination of AI data leaks and cyberattacks necessitates a more robust cybersecurity strategy for law firms. Despite the escalating threats, a survey by PriceWaterHouseCoopers revealed that the top 1000 law firms spent less than 1% of their fee income on cybersecurity. As the legal industry navigates this complex landscape, it is crucial for law firms to invest more in cybersecurity measures to protect their confidential data and maintain client trust.
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
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July 13, 2023

Image: Unsplash/Chuttersnap
Real estate crowdfunding has transformed how people invest in real estate and given US and Canadian investors new opportunities. Let's dive deep into this exciting investment strategy and explore how it might benefit you.
Simply put, real estate crowdfunding is pooling money from multiple investors to invest in a property. It's like joining forces with friends and family but on a much larger scale! This approach differs from traditional methods, as you don't need to manage the property or put down a significant amount of money—crowdfunding platforms present investors with various investment opportunities to choose from.
At the moment, the housing markets in the US and Canada are growing like never before
What's the secret behind this skyrocketing growth? Well, a couple of things: low-interest rates and high demand for houses. You know, many people want homes, but they're way too costly. That's where investors come in.
Interest rates are super low. I mean, historically low! With such low rates, people are more motivated to borrow money and buy properties. Having low-interest rates makes more individuals interested in investing.
Oh, and did I mention homes are in high demand? In both the US and Canada, everyone desires their own space. With so many people wanting to buy, housing prices just keep going up and up.
In both the US and Canada, everyone desires their own space. Acquiring a home is harder than in the past. In fact, homeownership rates are dropping. A growing number of individuals can't pay for a house. It's getting pretty tough out there.
Despite the challenges, there's a hidden opportunity. The current market situation is excellent for investors. They can make some serious money without having to fork up a massive amount of cash upfront. Sounds like a win-win, right?
There are numerous advantages to investing through crowdfunding.
Consider Sarah, who contributed $5,000 to a crowdfunding campaign for a multi-family housing complex. She enjoys monthly dividends and potentially increased property value over time, all without having to manage the property or deal with tenants directly.
Like any investment, real estate crowdfunding comes with its risks and challenges.
To mitigate these risks, conduct thorough research, select reputable platforms, and diversify your investments. Remember, never put all your eggs in one basket!
Ready to invest? Follow these steps.
Real estate offers various investment options. Purchasing a home isn't the only option! To kick off your journey, consider these ideas.
Real estate crowdfunding is changing the landscape of property investing. With lower entry costs and increased diversification, it's an exciting opportunity not to be missed. However, make sure to assess the risks and challenges, do your research, and always invest wisely.
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
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DealMaker Release | Jun 28, 2023

The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
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