- 01
Direct impact
No fund in between. You choose the dream, see the milestones and watch the proof arrive. A small backing can complete a milestone when several Backers join in.
- 02
Transparent by design
Every dream shows its goal, milestones and progress. Dreams are reviewed before they go live, and money moves only when proof is posted.
- 03
A relationship, not a transaction
Chat with the Dreamer and follow updates. Many Backers return because they enjoy watching a plan become something real, knowing they helped.
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.
Example milestone plan
An example plan for a community water access dream with a goal of $20,000. Backers pay you directly, funding the goal all at once or milestone by milestone as you post proof for each step.
Milestone 1
$3,000 · 15%
Assess source and site
Post the site assessment, proposed system layout and itemised installation quote, with household information removed.
Milestone 2
$7,000 · 35%
Prepare source infrastructure
Share dated source-work photos, contractor progress records and receipts for completed groundwork and source components.
Milestone 3
$7,000 · 35%
Install distribution equipment
Post tank and pipe installation photos, equipment invoices and an installer checklist covering the completed system.
Milestone 4
$3,000 · 15%
Verify operation and upkeep
Share dated water test reports, commissioning records and a maintenance schedule with private contact details hidden.
Risks to plan for
- R1
Source proves unsuitable
An assessed source may not support the planned system throughout the year. Put source evaluation first and define a redesign checkpoint before committing the main installation budget.
- R2
Testing requires changes
Water test findings may show that the installed setup needs further work. Reserve funds for follow-up testing and adjustments rather than treating physical completion as proof of readiness.
- R3
Maintenance has no owner
Equipment can fall out of use when servicing responsibilities are unclear. Name a maintenance role, document training and include essential spares in the final milestone budget.
Questions and answers
Do Backers get anything in return?
Backings are gifts, so there are no shares, interest or repayment. You get a clear view of the progress you made possible and a direct line to the Dreamer.
Is a photo of flowing water enough proof?
Flow demonstrates operation, not water quality or long-term reliability. Include dated test reports, installation records and the maintenance plan so Backers can assess what the project has actually completed.
Can this fund repairs instead of a new water point?
Yes, describe the existing system and the specific fault being addressed. Use an assessment, documented repair work, replacement-part receipts and final testing as proof, rather than presenting repairs as a new installation.
Budget example
A typical cost split for a community water access dream in Los Angeles, shown in USD. Backers pay you directly using your accepted payment methods.
Example goal
$20,000
- Source works and installation$9,000 · 45%
- Storage and distribution equipment$5,000 · 25%
- Assessment and water testing$4,000 · 20%
- Maintenance tools and training$2,000 · 10%
What you receive
- Backers give
- $20,000
- 0% platform commission
- −$3,000
- You receive
- $17,000
Ready when you are
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