Trends in Crypto-Crowdfunding: An Exploratory Study to Analyse the Factors That Influence the Perceptions of Funders Investing in Crypto-Crowdfunds

The rapid evolution of fintech has accelerated the integration of blockchain technology and digital currencies into crowdfunding platforms, reshaping how individuals engage in entrepreneurial finance. This study examines the socio-cultural, demographic, and be-havioural factors that influence funders’ perceptions and investment decisions in cryp-to-crowdfunding, a model positioned at the intersection of digital finance, financial in-clusion, and decentralised capital formation. Using primary data from 1,000 respondents across Europe, the United States, and India, and measuring perceptions through a structured 5-point Likert questionnaire, the analysis explores how risk perceptions, trust and security, investor awareness, and perceived benefits shape engagement with crypto-crowdfunded projects. The findings show that blockchain-enabled transparency and decentralisation enhance perceived reliability and trust, potentially strengthening financial inclusion by reducing dependence on traditional intermediaries. Socio-cultural factors—such as gender, age, education, and country of origin—significantly influence investors’ awareness, perceived risks, and expected benefits, confirming the behavioural heterogeneity underlying digital-finance participation. Regression results reveal strong links between trust, risk perception, and awareness, highlighting the need for robust risk-management mechanisms and clearer regulatory frameworks to support sustainable adoption. The study contributes to the growing literature on fintech and digital currencies by offering empirical evidence on how individual characteristics shape participation in emerging crypto-crowdfunding ecosystems, and by identifying the opportunities and challenges associated with these innovative financing platforms.