- 01
Gifts, not investments
A backing is a voluntary gift towards a goal. Nothing is sold, no ownership changes hands and no return is promised. Backers support a person; you keep control.
- 02
Why milestones still matter
Without contracts, Backers rely on transparency. You post proof for each milestone so they can review your progress and choose to support your dream directly with confidence.
- 03
What you owe Backers
Honesty: a true story, proof for each milestone and updates in chat. Not profits or repayment. Because Backers can pay milestone by milestone, they only send further support as you prove progress.
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 CN¥130,000. Backers pay you directly, funding the goal all at once or milestone by milestone as you post proof for each step.
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.
Budget example
A typical cost split for a community water access dream in Hangzhou, shown in CNY. Backers pay you directly using your accepted payment methods.
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
- 0% platform commission
- −CN¥19,500
- You receive
- CN¥110,500
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 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.
Do I have to pay Backers back?
No. Backers send gifts directly to your own payment account. cohero never holds funds or reverses payments; any dispute or refund request is handled between you and the Backer through your payment provider.
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.
Ready when you are
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