When AYANEO set out to redefine gaming with their handheld windows gaming console, they didn’t start with a massive marketing budget or a global distribution network. Instead, they turned to crowdfunding—and it changed everything.

In a sit-down interview with Indiegogo’s Cheryl Tang, CEO Arthur Zhang revealed how launching on Indiegogo helped the brand go from niche startup to global player. Here are three ways crowdfunding made it happen:

1. Global Reach
AYANEO used Indiegogo to connect with backers across the world, unlocking communities far beyond their home market. The credibility of the platform made it easier to win trust—especially from first-time buyers of a brand-new device.

2. Feedback That Fuels Growth
From heartwarming messages to real-world interactions at events like the Tokyo Game Show, backers shared insights that helped AYANEO improve everything from product features to customer service to even providing encouragement when things didn’t progress as expected. Crowdfunding created a two-way street of communication that traditional retail rarely offers.

3. A Track to Partnerships
The visibility and traction gained through their campaigns attracted attention from international distributors and partners—accelerating AYANEO’s expansion into overseas markets and retail networks.

AYANEO’s newest campaign for the AYANEO 3, the world’s first modular handheld for gamers, is live now—and it’s a powerful testament to what’s possible when you build with your community.

🎥 Watch the full interview and hear Arthur share his entrepreneurial journey, including his experience navigating cultural differences, why your relationship with your manufacturer matters, and an exciting preview of what’s coming next: