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 coffee shop dream with a goal of CN¥400,000. Backers fund the whole goal, but each milestone's money stays held until you post the proof and Backers release it.
Milestone 1
CN¥60,000 · 15%
Plan the counter
Share a measured counter plan, water and power requirements, and itemised estimates for the proposed coffee bar.
Milestone 2
CN¥120,000 · 30%
Prepare the space
Post dated fit-out photos and contractor invoices showing completed counter, plumbing and electrical preparation.
Milestone 3
CN¥140,000 · 35%
Install brewing equipment
Upload machine and grinder receipts, installation photos and a short demonstration of the complete brewing station.
Milestone 4
CN¥80,000 · 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, how much is held and how much is released. You only release money for milestones you have reviewed yourself.
Budget example
A typical cost split for a coffee shop dream in Shanghai, shown in CNY. Backers are charged the equivalent in US dollars.
Example goal
CN¥400,000
- Brewing machines and grindersCN¥140,000 · 35%
- Counter and space fit-outCN¥120,000 · 30%
- Beans and serving suppliesCN¥60,000 · 15%
- Opening operations reserveCN¥80,000 · 20%
What you receive
- Backers give
- CN¥400,000
- Platform fee (15%)
- −CN¥60,000
- You receive
- CN¥340,000
Ready when you are
Sign in or create an account to publish a dream or back the ones you believe in.
Sign in / Create account