I am not certain you have had a similar experience: My good friend Marie’s daughter is a documentary producer, director, writer, etc. One of Elizabeth’s projects was The Loving Story which is a highly acclaimed documentary. As she was working on this effort, I was asked to contribute to the production and marketing through a virtual environment called Indegogo.com. Through this site, one of several, projects can be submitted for multitudes to consider lending a buck or many more.
Just today, I found an article through a Linkedin group that suggests that it need not be only films but any sort of project.
Check it out: Crowdfunding
You may have a start up company or special project that folks will find worthy contribution even if they will not directly benefit.
Let me know if you are successful!