How Backers are protected
14-day review per milestone
When proof is posted, each Backer has 14 days to review the proof, ask for more info, and decide whether to keep supporting your next milestone.
0% commission — direct gifts, nothing taken
Backers pay exactly what they choose directly through your payment methods. cohero takes 0% commission on backings, so you keep what is sent. Any refunds or disputes are handled directly between you, the Backer and your payment provider.
Gifts, not shares
Backings are gifts. No shares, equity, interest or repayment, and Dreamers keep full ownership. Nothing on cohero is an investment or a loan.
- 01
Before you back
Read the story and the milestones. Check that the amounts add up and that each step has something concrete to prove. If anything is unclear, ask in chat first.
- 02
While the dream runs
You can support a dream milestone by milestone. When proof is posted, you are notified and can review it, ask questions, and decide whether to send the next payment. You can back anonymously.
- 03
If something goes wrong
Because you pay directly and can give milestone by milestone, you remain in control and never have to fund unproven steps. You can report a dream or block a user at any time.
Example milestone plan
An example plan for a coffee shop dream with a goal of $60,000. Backers pay you directly, funding the goal all at once or milestone by milestone as you post proof for each step.
Milestone 1
$9,000 · 15%
Plan the counter
Share a measured counter plan, water and power requirements, and itemised estimates for the proposed coffee bar.
Milestone 2
$18,000 · 30%
Prepare the space
Post dated fit-out photos and contractor invoices showing completed counter, plumbing and electrical preparation.
Milestone 3
$21,000 · 35%
Install brewing equipment
Upload machine and grinder receipts, installation photos and a short demonstration of the complete brewing station.
Milestone 4
$12,000 · 20%
Rehearse opening service
Share a practice service log, opening bean and milk stock records, and photos of the finished customer area.
Risks to plan for
- R1
Unsuitable utility connections
Existing water or power connections may not suit the chosen machine. Confirm equipment requirements before fit-out and include a budget line for connection changes.
- R2
Slow drink preparation
An attractive counter can still create queues if staff cross paths. Use a timed practice rush in the final milestone and allow for small changes to the workstation.
- R3
Early stock waste
Beans, milk and fresh food can be wasted while demand is uncertain. Start with a limited opening range and use the operating reserve for measured replenishment.
Questions and answers
Can my first milestone cover planning rather than equipment?
Yes. A measured counter layout, utility checks and written fit-out estimates give Backers tangible planning proof. Keep this stage smaller than equipment installation and explain what decisions it settles.
How do I show the coffee bar is ready without claiming sales?
Film the brewing station in use and share a practice service log covering drink preparation and cleaning. Pair those records with installation receipts; readiness proof does not need a revenue forecast.
Can I see how my money was used?
Yes. Each milestone shows the Dreamer's proof and confirmed support. You stay in control by choosing to send direct payments only for milestones you have personally reviewed.
Budget example
A typical cost split for a coffee shop dream in Chicago, shown in USD. Backers pay you directly using your accepted payment methods.
Example goal
$60,000
- Brewing machines and grinders$21,000 · 35%
- Counter and space fit-out$18,000 · 30%
- Beans and serving supplies$9,000 · 15%
- Opening operations reserve$12,000 · 20%
What you receive
- Backers give
- $60,000
- 0% platform commission
- −$9,000
- You receive
- $51,000
Ready when you are
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