I just saw this video pop up into my Facebook timeline. The video is about Seabin a “trashcan for the ocean”. Basically, the device floats at water level and vacuums up anything floating nearby. Think of it as a jumbo sized pool cleaner except it is targeting marinas which tend to suffer from way too much sea trash.
The Facebook video, published by the Weather Channel, has tracked some pretty impressive views. Over 23 30 million as of this writing – something I believe qualifies as going viral. The views have been accompanied by over 206,000 likes and more than 276,000 shares. The original YouTube version, associated with the Indiegogo campaign, has generated over 136,000 views. Not too bad. Obviously, Seabin is generating some solid social love. But can this migrate into crowdfunding success?
Trash Can for the OceanThey were sick of seeing trash in the water, so they created “seabin” — a trash can for the ocean. This is how it works.
Posted by The Weather Channel on Thursday, December 24, 2015
Launched last month, this crowdfunding campaing is seeking a raise of $230,000 – fixed. As of today it has raised over $190,000 – $40K short of goal. The project has less than three days left to top the funding minimum.
Now part of the challenge is the price of the product. At $3825, the Seabin is not inexpensive and you have to wonder how many Marina’s (or other public water areas) have been exposed to the campaign. The majority of the support from the 5600 plus supporters is coming at the $2 buzz perk level. Will the existing supporters be able to generate sufficient marketing buzz to push Seabin over the top?
I have to admit I love the concept. Having spent a good portion of time around the water I have always wondered why something like the Seabin did not exist. Let’s hope this one makes it over the top. Definitely a niche product with compelling mission.
UPDATE: Seabin has been reinvigorated probably boosted by the additional social reach provided by the Facebook video. The campaign is now nearing its original target of $230,000. The organizers have wisely added a few more days to the campaign so now it looks like Seabin is on track for crowdfunding success.
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