Australian freeskiing magazine Chillfactor has launched a Kickstarter campaign to fund its next print edition.
Chillfactor magazine Co-Founder Reggae Ellis lodged the Kickstarter campaign, asking readers to pre-order their magazine copy to cover the production costs of the magazine.
Ellis says on the Kickstarter campaign page, “Like a blizzard, how fast the world has changed. The COVID-19 pandemic has hit the snow industry hard. Most companies that advertise in Chillfactor can’t this year. Many face a huge dip in trade and are trying to survive, facing an uncertain winter.
“As we launch this campaign we don’t know how the Australian ski season will look. Will the lifts turn? Will we be free to travel?”
Australian alpine communities are facing the challenges of the COVID-19 restrictions on the back of a summer of bushfires, which saw the destruction of at least one snow resort.
“Usual industry supporters of a niche ski magazine are simply trying to survive and don’t have cash flow to advertise.”
Ellis has been editing the magazine since its launch in 2000, and the 2020 edition would mark the 21st issue of the annual magazine, which is usually released in May.
“It’s simple,” Ellis says on Kickstarter. “Buy your mag early so we can cover the upfront costs of printing. If we reach our target we will go to print and have the mag in your mailbox by early July. Just as the snow really starts to kick in.”
The Chillfactor team has been working on the articles and photography to include in the 21st edition over the past year.
“Communities are created by stories. And we are ready to make sure that in this year, when we need to feel the connection of our community more than ever, Chillfactor will be there.”
Reggae Ellis, Co-Founder, Chillfactor magazine
“Chillfactor has maintained a loyal following who enjoy the feel of a beautiful magazine in their hands,” Ellis says.
“If that continues we will continue to rise to meet that demand. We believe there is a place for quality content, for stories well told, for beautiful images and yes, for advertising from products and places that inspire us.
“This pandemic has created a historic moment that may see much change in the world. Some things however we hope might remain. The lure of the mountains, the connection between people who share a passion for sliding on snow and the human desire to tell and listen to stories.”
The Chillfactor team is offering incentives for different levels of support, including the opportunity for readers to get their face in the magazine, a limited edition Tshirt, guided tours, a ski photo shoot, and advertising space.
At the time of writing, the Kickstarter campaign has achieved A$14,482 of its $16,700 goal, with 212 backers and 20 days to go.
In addition to its annual print magazine, the Chillfactor team also produces a bi-monthly podcast and monthly e-newsletter.
The Chillfactor Kickstarter campaign can be found here.
