If you're thinking about starting a business, you're not alone. In fact, according to a recent report, nearly 60 percent of Americans have thought about starting their own business at some point. But if you're like most people, you probably haven't taken the plunge because you're not sure where to start.

Luckily, there's a new way to raise money for your business: crowdfunding.

Crowdfunding is a way to raise money from a large group of people, usually through an online platform. In return for their investment, backers usually receive some sort of reward, like a product or service.

Crowdfunding can be a great way to get your business off the ground, but it's not without its challenges. Here are a few things to keep in mind if you're thinking about crowdfunding your business:

Make sure you have a great story.

People are more likely to invest in a business that has a compelling story. Why are you starting this business? What problem are you solving? What makes you unique? Answering these questions will help you craft a pitch that will resonate with potential backers.

Have a solid business plan.

Crowdfunding is not a free ride to success. You still need to have a solid business plan and show potential backers that you know what you're doing. This means having a clear idea of your target market, your marketing strategy, your financial projections, and more.

Choose the right platform.

There are a lot of crowdfunding platforms out there, so it's important to choose the one that's right for you. Do some research and read reviews to find a platform that fits your needs.

Be prepared for rejection.

Not every crowdfunding campaign is successful. In fact, the majority of campaigns don't reach their funding goals. Don't take it personally if your campaign doesn't succeed—just be prepared to pivot and try again.

Crowdfunding can be a great way to finance your business, but it's not the only option. Be sure to explore all of your funding options before you make a decision.