Inkshares runs a crowd‑funded publishing platform where authors post a book concept and, once a pre‑order target (e.g., 750 copies) is reached, the company handles editorial polishing, design, print‑on‑demand production and distribution through Ingram to major retailers. It also provides marketing support and negotiates film/TV rights, paying authors a 35 % royalty on net receipts.
Funding
Funding not disclosed
Founders
Product
Problem
Many writers lack access to professional editorial, design, printing, and distribution resources, making it difficult to bring a manuscript to market. Traditional publishing routes often require agents and large upfront investments, while self‑publishing leaves authors responsible for all production and marketing tasks. Consequently, promising books may never reach readers because authors cannot secure the necessary funding or infrastructure.
Solution
Inkshares operates a crowd‑funded publishing platform where authors post a concise book concept and optional sample chapters to attract reader interest. When a pre‑order threshold (e.g., 750 copies) is met, Inkshares assumes full publishing responsibilities, including developmental editing, copy‑editing, fact‑checking, interior layout, cover design, and print production. The company distributes printed and digital titles through its Ingram partnership to major retailers such as Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Apple Books, and independent bookstores, and runs coordinated social‑media, email, and press campaigns. Inkshares also negotiates film and television rights on behalf of authors, providing an additional revenue stream. Authors retain 35 % of net receipts after production and distribution costs, while Inkshares earns the remainder and any ancillary rights fees.
Target Audience
Inkshares primarily serves independent authors—both debut and established—who need a low‑risk, data‑driven route to publish and market their books. It also appeals to readers willing to pre‑order and support emerging titles, effectively acting as a community‑backed publishing ecosystem.
Features
- Crowdfunding‑driven pre‑order model that triggers a full publishing run once a defined sales target is reached.
- End‑to‑end editorial workflow: developmental editing, copy‑editing, fact‑checking, proofreading, and manuscript polishing.
- In‑house design team delivering interior layout, cover art, and print‑ready files.
- Print‑on‑demand and offset printing managed through Ingram, enabling worldwide distribution to online and brick‑and‑mortar retailers.
- Integrated marketing suite covering social media ads, email newsletters, and traditional media outreach, with performance dashboards for authors.
- Rights management service that packages and sells movie/TV licensing opportunities to studios and production companies.
- Contest and imprint programs (e.g., Blink, Legendary Entertainment) that provide alternative pathways to publication based on reader engagement metrics.
- Transparent royalty reporting showing authors their 35 % share of net receipts after deducting production and distribution expenses.