Crowdfunding PioneerWadizSurpasses 1 Trillion Won in GMV

Wadiz, a leading crowdfunding platform that gained attention for its "no-inventory" business model, has surpassed 1 trillion won in cumulative transaction volume as it marks over a decade since its founding. This article examines Wadiztrajectory—as it moves beyond simple funding to include product distribution and direct investment, driving a virtuous cycle in the startup ecosystem—while also exploring the achievements, significance, and future growth potential of the domestic crowdfunding industry. -Editor’s Note-

Wadiz, a pioneer in the domestic crowdfunding market, has surpassed 1 trillion won in cumulative transaction volume, firmly establishing itself as the undisputed “go-to platform for startups.” It is noteworthy that the company is driving a virtuous cycle in the startup ecosystem by expanding beyond simple reward-based crowdfunding to include distribution and direct investment.

For example, if a campaign Wadizreceives a positive response from users, it can generate sustained sales through Wadiz. Entrepreneurs can also expand their sales channels through offline showrooms and receive support for entering overseas markets. If Wadizdetermines that a project has high potential, it may even make a direct investment. In short, Wadiz is the number one partner for small business owners looking to launch a successful venture.

According to industry sources on the 27th, Wadizhas set a record for the highest number of new project launches for three consecutive months and has surpassed 1 trillion won in cumulative transaction volume just 10 years after launching its service. The company explains that reaching 1 trillion won in cumulative transaction volume is particularly significant because it represents the combined support and backing of the public, which has provided opportunities to makers who have business ideas but lack funding.

Establishing Itself as the Premier Destination for Small Business Startups Through Crowdfunding

The growth of Wadiz platform is remarkable. Wadiz has 6 million members and 10 million monthly visitors. Companies that have successfully secured funding Wadizhave raised over 800 billion won in follow-on investment, based on disclosed figures alone. As public support and validation lead to institutional investment, a virtuous cycle of startup ecosystem formation and expansion is taking shape within Wadiz.

Thanks to its unique structure, crowdfunding has been well-received by early-stage startups. While most retail markets are open only to businesses with existing inventory, crowdfunding allows companies to gauge market demand in advance without holding inventory, thereby drastically reducing the costs associated with initial production. It is an ideal model for small businesses that have ideas but lack funding.

A reward-based crowdfunding project that raised approximately 2.8 billion won

Another strength Wadizis its ability to help makers secure an early fan base and leverage it as a promotional channel. By attracting supporters who resonate with the makers’ philosophy and the story behind their products, makers can gather feedback and use the platform’s news feed and social features to communicate with them, thereby refining their products. Furthermore, a successful funding history earns the title of a “proven product” and generates valuable promotional and marketing benefits upon official launch.

In fact, there are numerous companies that have risen to become star enterprises through Wadiz. Luxury e-commerce platform Trenvy, craft beer brand SevenBrew, tidal power company Injin, premium Korean beef brand Seolroin, and pet service provider FitPet are all companies that were discovered through Wadiz.

Wadiz: A Platform You Can Trust to Fund Projects… Building Trust Wadiz‘Responsible Brokerage’

Wadizhas also made significant efforts to strengthen its responsible intermediary policies so that users can fund projects with confidence. A prime example of this is the “Funding Refund Policy” introduced in 2020. If a defect occurs as defined by the Framework Act on Consumer Protection, or if the maker fails to meet the promised delivery date, users can request a refund of their funding amount through their My Page within 14 days of receiving their reward.

The Maker Trust Index is another useful metric for users to consider. It displays a maker’s trustworthiness—including their reputation, communication, and popularity—on funding projects, helping participants decide whether to contribute.

In addition, to provide better service based on voluntary reports from members, a "Report" button is available for every project to report cases of intellectual property infringement, false information in project stories, distribution of the same product through other channels, or violations of community policies. Once a report is received, we will review it and, based on verified facts, take follow-up actions such as temporarily suspending or canceling the project, deleting posts, or refunding funds.

We also publish a transparency report. This report details reports of issues within projects and the actions taken in response, and can be viewed through the Trust Center on the Wadiz website. It includes not only responses to individual issues raised via the "Report" feature, but also actual data such as response procedures and the results of those actions.

Funding isn't the end... Expanding into IP merchandise sales via the Wadiz, which offers year-round sales

Products that have received a positive response from users through crowdfunding can be sold on an ongoing basis via Wadiz. This provides makers who started Wadizwith an opportunity to continue selling their products and services and to grow their businesses. For makers, this serves as a way to expand their sales channels.

The response from users has been overwhelmingly positive. Since only products that have successfully completed a crowdfunding campaign are listed on the platform, consumers tend to trust and purchase them, knowing they are proven products. Additionally, word is that consumer satisfaction is high because, despite the perception that crowdfunding projects require a long wait, customers can receive their orders the very next day through “wa delivery.”

In addition, Wadizhas recently emerged as a go-to destination for merchandise. The platform connects brand owners with intellectual property (IP) rights to makers, supporting the development of IP-based products through crowdfunding. According to the company, it offers IP business opportunities to makers with innovative ideas and strong product quality, expanding its scope from characters to popular brand logos. For small and medium-sized businesses, for whom securing IP licenses from major brands is often difficult, this serves as a gateway to new challenges.

Iconix (known for "Jangmang Ruppy"), Nexon (known for "MapleStory"), HiteJinro (known for "Jinro Toad"), Riot Games (known for "League of Legends"), Hyundai Motor Company (known for "Ioniq"), and even Disney—which owns "Disney and Pixar characters"—have all showcased a variety of merchandise through Wadiz.

Shin Hye-sung, CEO Wadiz, said, “For over a decade, the continuous challenges and support from so many people have helped create a variety of success stories,” adding, “We will expand a robust value chain for startups so that even small challenges can lead to significant opportunities and sustained growth.”

(Original: [Startup Hub Wadiz] Crowdfunding PioneerWadiz Surpasses 1 Trillion Won in GMV… Leading a Virtuous Cycle in the Startup Ecosystem)