Company Directory - Kickstarter PBC
Company Details - Kickstarter PBC
Kickstarter PBC
WebsiteBrooklyn, United States
Kickstarter is a public benefit corporation and crowdfunding platform that enables creators to fund their projects by connecting with a community of backers. It has played a pivotal role in financing a diverse range of creative endeavors, including art, music, film, and animation, such as the animated series of Critical Role.
CCI Score
CCI Score: Kickstarter PBC
20.48
-0.02%
Latest Event
Kickstarter Re-incorporates as Public Benefit Corporation
Kickstarter has re-incorporated as a Public Benefit Corporation, committing to prioritize social impact over traditional profit maximization. The company pledges to donate 5% of its annual post-tax profits to arts education and organizations fighting inequality, reflecting a broader mission to embed public good into its business practices.
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SABOTEUR
Kickstarter PBC is currently rated as a Saboteur.
Latest Events
- JAN012025
Kickstarter has re-incorporated as a Public Benefit Corporation, committing to prioritize social impact over traditional profit maximization. The company pledges to donate 5% of its annual post-tax profits to arts education and organizations fighting inequality, reflecting a broader mission to embed public good into its business practices.
+80
Public and Political Behavior
March 27
By re-incorporating as a Public Benefit Corporation, Kickstarter is signaling a commitment to align its operations with broader societal values. This step indicates a shift in public and political behavior, embedding social good into the core operational mandate.
+90
Business Practices and Ethical Responsibility
March 27
The transition to a Public Benefit Corporation is a strong statement of ethical responsibility. Kickstarter commits to reinvesting in societal initiatives, such as donating a portion of its profits towards arts education and fighting inequality, which reflects deep ethical responsibility in business practices.
+70
Economic and Structural Influence
March 27
The re-structuring of Kickstarter into a Public Benefit Corporation introduces a new economic and structural paradigm where societal impact is legally mandated. This transformation helps mitigate the risks associated with profit-only motives and reduces structural influences that could otherwise be complicit in irresponsible economic practices.
- OCT012023
Kickstarter has re-incorporated as a Benefit Corporation, embedding social good in its corporate governance. The company has also pledged to donate 5% of its annual post‐tax profits to support arts education and organizations fighting inequality, reflecting a distinct move away from shareholder-only priorities.
+70
Executive Political Engagement
April 7
Executives at Kickstarter, including its CEO and co-founders, publicly announced the transformation to a Benefit Corporation. This decision demonstrates progressive leadership engaging in public political behavior that emphasizes societal good over pure profit, aligning with anti-authoritarian mandates.
+80
Business Practices and Ethical Responsibility
April 7
By re-incorporating as a Benefit Corporation, Kickstarter legally commits to prioritizing social impact alongside profit. The pledge to donate 5% of post-tax profits to support arts education and combat inequality represents a progressive shift in business practices, reinforcing ethical responsibility.
- FEB182023
On February 18, workers at Kickstarter voted to form a union, leading to the firing of key union organizers amid an environment described as tense and repressive. This action by management has raised concerns over the company’s commitment to fair labor practices and worker rights.
-80
Labor Relations and Human Rights Practices
April 7
The dismissal of lead union organizers during the formation of 'Kickstarter United' highlights a repressive approach by management to suppress workers' rights and union organizing. Such actions undermine fair labor practices and contribute to a hostile work environment, reflecting negatively on the company’s ethical responsibility towards its employees.
- JUN012022
In June 2022, after a long and hard-fought union drive, Kickstarter's union ratified its first collective bargaining agreement, securing essential worker protections such as annual wage increases, pay equity reviews, and job security measures.
+90
Labor Relations and Human Rights Practices
April 7
The ratification of the collective bargaining agreement marks a significant victory for workers, ensuring fair treatment, improved benefits, and a greater say in company decisions. This move bolsters democratic labor practices and challenges authoritarian management styles, making it a strong positive development from an anti-fascist perspective.
- DEC012021
Kickstarter has announced plans to integrate a decentralized crowdfunding platform based on blockchain technology, a move that followed significant backlash over environmental concerns and reputational risks tied to NFTs and crypto associations. The company has committed to transparent business practices by forming an advisory council to guide the platform's development, ensuring community input and environmental safeguards through the use of a carbon-negative blockchain.
- FEB182020
Kickstarter PBC became the first white-collar tech company to unionize, marking a historic step towards enhanced labor rights and worker empowerment in the tech industry. This initiative is a positive signal of the company’s commitment to fair labor practices.
+85
Labor Relations and Human Rights Practices
March 27
The union certification at Kickstarter PBC represents a significant advancement in labor rights within the tech sector. By organizing its white-collar workforce and securing union representation, the company has taken a step that supports worker empowerment and challenges authoritarian management practices. This move not only benefits employees directly but also serves as a model for ethical business practices in an industry often criticized for its labor policies.
Kickstarter Becomes First White-Collar Tech Company to Unionize
- FEB182020
Kickstarter employees voted to unionize with the Office and Professional Employees International Union, marking the first union victory among white collar tech workers at a major company. This win is seen as a positive step for labor rights and a challenge to the company's previous opposition to unionization.
+80
Labor Relations and Human Rights Practices
April 7
The union election win is a significant victory for worker rights, demonstrating that employees are successfully organizing for better labor practices. It challenges traditional corporate anti-union stances and supports progressive labor reforms.
- FEB182020
Kickstarter employees voted 46 to 37 to unionize with the Office and Professional Employees International Union, marking a historic first for a major tech company. CEO Aziz Hasan expressed support for the decision, framing it as part of Kickstarter's democratic approach and commitment to fair labor practices.
+80
Labor Relations and Human Rights Practices
April 7
The unionization vote is a significant win for workers’ rights, reinforcing progressive labor practices within the tech industry. With a strong display of employee empowerment and management support, this event promotes equitable and democratic workplace policies, aligning with anti-authoritarian and anti-fascist values.
Kickstarter employees vote to unionize in historic first for tech industry
- FEB182020
Kickstarter employees, numbering around 145, cast their votes to unionize in a move aimed at strengthening labor rights and improving workplace conditions. The decision, reported by HuffPost on February 18, 2020, highlights a worker-led initiative to secure better representation, even as CEO Aziz Hasan expressed a desire to move past the episode.
+80
Labor Relations and Human Rights Practices
April 7
The unionization vote by Kickstarter workers is a positive step towards protecting labor rights and empowering workers, aligning with anti-authoritarian, pro-worker ideals. This initiative challenges exploitative practices and supports democratic labor practices, reflecting a significant progressive shift in internal company dynamics.
- FEB182020
On February 18th, 2020, Kickstarter employees voted to form a union, marking a significant move toward enhancing worker rights, promoting workplace equity, and aligning with the company’s Public Benefit Corporation values.
+80
Labor Relations and Human Rights Practices
April 7
The union vote by Kickstarter employees demonstrates a strong commitment to labor rights and progressive workplace practices. By forming a union, the company reinforces its dedication to transparent, equitable, and worker-friendly policies, aligning well with anti-fascist values and the broader movement for social justice. This action supports marginalized voices in the workplace and encourages fair treatment and inclusion.
- SEP132019
Kickstarter fired two key organizers involved in unionization efforts, sparking allegations of union-busting and raising concerns over the company's labor relations and respect for worker rights.
-80
Labor Relations and Human Rights Practices
March 27
The firing of employees involved in union organizing suggests a deliberate union-busting campaign. Such actions undermine workers' rights and fair labor practices, casting a negative light on the company's ethical responsibility. The involvement of severance agreements tied to non-disparagement clauses further emphasizes a disregard for transparent and fair treatment of employees, aligning with broader concerns regarding corporate complicity in suppressing organized labor.
Kickstarter accused of union-busting after firing two employees
- SEP122019
Kickstarter faces severe backlash from union supporters following the firing of two union organizers, with accusations of union-busting that undermine its public benefit commitments and employee rights.
-80
Labor Relations and Human Rights Practices
March 27
The dismissal of employees involved in union organizing has sparked allegations of union busting at Kickstarter. The firings, which coincided with a performance review cycle, are viewed by union supporters as a retaliation against workers asserting their right to organize. This act contradicts the ethos expected of a public benefit corporation and raises serious concerns about the company’s commitment to ethical labor practices and worker rights.
Kickstarter faces union backlash after firing two organizers
- SEP012019
Amid mounting unionization efforts, Kickstarter terminated two members of its union organizing committee and denied voluntary recognition of the union. These actions have been criticized and led to federal unfair labor practice charges, highlighting repressive labor management tactics.
-60
Labor Relations and Human Rights Practices
April 7
The dismissal of union organizers demonstrates an anti-union, repressive approach to labor organization. This action undermines workers' rights and democratic representation, reflecting an alignment with authoritarian corporate practices.
- SEP012019
In September 2019, key union organizers Taylor Moore and Clarissa Redwine were fired from Kickstarter after emerging as leaders in an organizing drive. This move raised concerns about union-busting tactics and the suppression of workers' rights within the company.
-80
Labor Relations and Human Rights Practices
April 7
The decision to fire prominent union organizers represents a clear instance of union-busting that undermines labor rights and democratic participation in the workplace. Such actions contribute to an authoritarian work environment, negatively impacting workers and providing a stark example of unethical labor practices.
- SEP252015
In 2015, Kickstarter transitioned to a Public Benefit Corporation, pledging to prioritize social and environmental goals, protect user privacy, refrain from opportunistic lobbying, and commit a portion of its profits to underserved communities. This move reflects a strong ethical stance that aligns with anti-fascist values of transparency and social responsibility.
+70
Public and Political Behavior
March 27
Kickstarter's commitment as a Public Benefit Corporation is a strong indicator of ethical public and political behavior. By pledging to defend user privacy, avoid aggressive political lobbying that does not align with its mission, and focus on public and environmental benefits, the company sets a positive example in resisting corporate complicity in authoritarian practices.
Kickstarter Becomes a Public Benefit Corporation, So What? - Non Profit News
+80
Business Practices and Ethical Responsibility
March 27
Kickstarter's conversion to a public benefit model and its pledge to allocate 5% of its after-tax profits towards social causes demonstrates a commitment to ethical business practices. The company's focus on transparency, proper tax practices, and direct support for underrepresented communities positions it as a positive force against exploitative business practices.
Kickstarter Becomes a Public Benefit Corporation, So What? - Non Profit News
- SEP202015
Kickstarter, Inc. dropped the 'Inc.' from its name and reincorporated as a public benefit corporation, enshrining in its charter a commitment to fund art, fight inequality, and improve society. The move includes pledges against using legal tax loopholes and foresees annual reporting on social and environmental performance, positioning the company as a model for corporate transparency and social responsibility.
+75
Executive Political Engagement
April 7
CEO Yancey Strickler’s public commitment to transitioning Kickstarter into a public benefit corporation signals strong executive engagement in promoting transparency and accountability. This move demonstrates a clear stand for social responsibility and anti-authoritarian corporate behavior.
Kickstarter Wants To Be A Model For Socially Responsible Corporations
+90
Business Practices and Ethical Responsibility
April 7
By legally embedding its mission to fight inequality and support art, while pledging not to use tax loopholes or offshore tax havens, Kickstarter has taken a significant step in reinforcing ethical business practices. This structural change enhances corporate accountability and transparency, aligning with progressive values.
Kickstarter Wants To Be A Model For Socially Responsible Corporations
- SEP202015
Kickstarter reincorporated as a Public Benefit Corporation on 20 September 2015, committing to prioritize public good and creative cultivation over mere profit maximization.
+70
Public and Political Behavior
March 27
Kickstarter’s shift to a Public Benefit Corporation represents a significant commitment to ethical and transparent public engagement. By legally embedding a focus on public good over pure profit, the company enhances its accountability and supports creative communities, aligning with positive public and political behavior.
Kickstarter is now a 'Public Benefit Corporation': what does that mean?
+75
Business Practices and Ethical Responsibility
March 27
By adopting Public Benefit Corporation status, Kickstarter has enshrined ethical guidelines into its corporate charter. This move fosters responsible business practices by mandating that decisions consider broader social impacts and prioritize community benefits, thereby enhancing overall corporate ethical responsibility.
Kickstarter is now a 'Public Benefit Corporation': what does that mean?
- JAN012015
Kickstarter's transition to a Public Benefit Corporation marks a significant shift in corporate governance. By rejecting a profit-at-all-costs approach, the company has aligned itself with ethical business practices that prioritize community welfare, transparency, and sustainable practices—values that stand in opposition to authoritarian-capitalist tendencies.
+85
Business Practices and Ethical Responsibility
March 27
Kickstarter’s conversion to a Public Benefit Corporation is a clear demonstration of its commitment to ethical practices and social responsibility. By eschewing the relentless pursuit of profit, the company positions itself against extractive capitalist practices that can contribute to systemic inequalities and ultimately enable authoritarian policies. This shift promotes a more inclusive, accountable, and community-focused business model.
Kickstarter Is a PBC. Here’s What That Means and Why It Matters.
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