Although not required, offering perks to investors can be an effective way to achieve your crowdfunding goals. Rewards have been proven to increase the amount raised by increasing commitment. If an investor is on the fence about investing in the company or increasing their commitment, a perk can be the incentive the investor needs to tip the scales. In order for this to work, the selected reward must motivate investors. 

Selecting perk ideas can be very difficult.   According to this Forbes article about crowdfunding, the more you focus on your customers needs, the easier it will be to select a reward. Choose something that helps retain investors as loyal customers.  Having a large berth of dedicated investors as customers can be one of the most advantageous parts of crowdfunding.  

The reward should be suited to you as a company. Ice cream parlors can offer a taste testing opportunity.  Event venues can offer venue access at a discounted rate.  Film companies can offer the opportunity to be an extra or the chance to go to the premier.  Any company can offer the opportunity to meet the founder at a dinner party.  Many other approaches are possible with just a little creativity.

When possible, a reward that is deliverable via an email voucher can save time and money. The company will not need to track the investors address or shipping information and will not need to pay for shipping.  Instead, an email can be sent to investors informing them how to access the reward.  You can send a voucher to pick up an item at your store, a future coupon, or an invitation to an event.

The best way to get new ideas is to talk directly to potential investors. The potential investors will be able to gauge what may fuel interest and may offer some creative solutions.  All companies, no matter the structure, have something to offer. The possibilities are endless and just require some creativity.