Background Getting research funded is extremely difficult, with research councils rejecting more than 70% of grant applications (Else 2014). It is even more difficult if you are a junior researcher who doesn’t have a track record of being awarded grant money or leading a research project. Crowdfunding may offer a solution. It is a method of raising funds from members of the public online and can offer an alternative to the more formal methods of research funding.

Aim To outline how this model works and provide tips on designing a campaign.

Discussion The authors provide an overview of the literature regarding this model, as well as a set of resources for future reference when designing a campaign.

Conclusion Crowdfunding can provide small amounts of money for your first project.

Implications for practice It is expected that clinicians practice evidence based medicine, and research in health environments is commonplace. Crowdfunding can offer you support in becoming more engaged in research.