How Backers are protected
14-day review per milestone
When proof is posted, each Backer has 14 days to release their share or ask for more. Money not released in time goes back to the Backer.
15% fee, deducted — never added
Backers pay exactly what they choose. The 15% fee comes out of each backing: CN¥1,000 gives the Dreamer CN¥850. The fee is kept if money is returned.
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
Your backing is split across the milestones. When proof is posted you are notified and can release your share or ask for more. You can back anonymously.
- 03
If something goes wrong
If you do not release a milestone in time, the money still held for it and later steps comes back to you, minus the fee. You can report a dream or block a user at any time.
Example milestone plan
An example plan for a community water access dream with a goal of CN¥130,000. Backers fund the whole goal, but each milestone's money stays held until you post the proof and Backers release it.
Milestone 1
CN¥19,500 · 15%
Assess source and site
Post the site assessment, proposed system layout and itemised installation quote, with household information removed.
Milestone 2
CN¥45,500 · 35%
Prepare source infrastructure
Share dated source-work photos, contractor progress records and receipts for completed groundwork and source components.
Milestone 3
CN¥45,500 · 35%
Install distribution equipment
Post tank and pipe installation photos, equipment invoices and an installer checklist covering the completed system.
Milestone 4
CN¥19,500 · 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
Can I see how my money was used?
Yes. Each milestone shows the Dreamer's proof, how much is held and how much is released. You only release money for milestones you have reviewed yourself.
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 Hangzhou, shown in CNY. Backers are charged the equivalent in US dollars.
Example goal
CN¥130,000
- Source works and installationCN¥58,500 · 45%
- Storage and distribution equipmentCN¥32,500 · 25%
- Assessment and water testingCN¥26,000 · 20%
- Maintenance tools and trainingCN¥13,000 · 10%
What you receive
- Backers give
- CN¥130,000
- Platform fee (15%)
- −CN¥19,500
- You receive
- CN¥110,500
Ready when you are
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