Question 1

What is Ko-fi?

Accepted Answer

Ko-fi is a bootstrapped creator support platform founded in 2017 that enables creators to receive financial support from their audiences. It's positioned as a creator-friendly alternative to venture-funded platforms like Patreon, with a unique business model that passes 100% of donations directly to creators.

Question 2

What products and services does Ko-fi offer?

Accepted Answer

Ko-fi offers multiple monetization options for creators including one-time donations ("buy a coffee"), membership subscriptions, commission services, shop sales, and digital product sales. The platform also offers Ko-fi Gold, a premium subscription service for $6 per month.

Question 3

Who is Ko-fi for?

Accepted Answer

Ko-fi is designed for creators who want to receive financial support from their audience. The platform serves over 1 million creators looking for a creator-friendly alternative to traditional crowdfunding and patronage platforms.

Question 4

When was Ko-fi founded?

Accepted Answer

Ko-fi was founded in 2017 by Nigel Pickles and Simon Ellington.

Question 5

Where is Ko-fi based?

Accepted Answer

Ko-fi is based in Cambridge, United Kingdom.

Question 6

Is Ko-fi venture-funded?

Accepted Answer

No, Ko-fi is completely bootstrapped with no VC funding. The founders deliberately chose to remain independent despite considering venture capital funding.

Question 7

What are Ko-fi's key metrics and achievements?

Accepted Answer

As of April 2025, Ko-fi has over 1 million creators on the platform who have generated more than $150 million in total donations. The company's annual revenue is $3.8 million with a team of 13 employees as of November 2024.

Question 8

How does Ko-fi's business model work?

Accepted Answer

Ko-fi passes 100% of donations directly to creators without taking a cut. The company generates revenue through platform fees and Ko-fi Gold premium subscriptions ($6/month).

Question 9

How many employees does Ko-fi have?

Accepted Answer

Ko-fi has 13 employees as of November 2024.

Question 10

What makes Ko-fi different from competitors like Patreon?

Accepted Answer

Ko-fi differentiates itself by being bootstrapped rather than venture-funded, and by passing 100% of donations to creators. The platform positions itself as a more creator-friendly alternative to venture-funded competitors.

Ko-fi

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ko-fi?

What products and services does Ko-fi offer?

Who is Ko-fi for?

When was Ko-fi founded?

Where is Ko-fi based?

Is Ko-fi venture-funded?

What are Ko-fi's key metrics and achievements?

How does Ko-fi's business model work?

How many employees does Ko-fi have?

What makes Ko-fi different from competitors like Patreon?

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