Editor’s Note: As ever-vigilant trend spotters, we’ve noticed a few ideas worth keeping our eye on in the new year. Here’s one of the trends to watch in 2013…

There’s a new definition of consumer demand emerging through online funding programs like Kickstarter, where the consumer is actually choosing to support and invest in the ideas or innovations that they want to see developed.

In the last couple years, we’ve seen retail stores and restaurants developed either solely or partially funded by the consumer through crowdfunding. One of the things influencing this trend is the increasing desire to support independent or local retail. For entrepreneurs, this method enables them to take their idea straight to the consumer and ask them to help fund it—no bank loan required.

Image via duke-winston.com

Philadelphia-based, casual apparel brand Duke & Winston utilized the Kickstarter platform to help gain funding to increase its national presence. Those who “kick in” are awarded merchandise based on their investment level, ranging from a $25 t-shirt up to a shopping spree.

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Image property of Chute Gerdeman

In 2014, millennials will become the largest generation on the planet. Unlike the generations that came before them, millennials are truly a worldwide phenomenon. They’re more diverse than any previous cohort and have global reach, thanks to the Internet. Multi-cultural is the norm for this bunch.

They are confident, self-expressive and upbeat. Raised hearing “You can be anything you want to be,” and “You can do it!” from their baby boomer parents, they’re optimistic but not foolish. In fact, they’re very much realists. (You can thank gen X for that element of wisdom!)

Brands matter greatly to this group. They take time choosing their personal favorites, landing on brands that align with their attitudes, beliefs and even personal quirks. Luxury or commodity, they’re a fickle bunch but, believe me, you want to make the cut.

While millennials may not have the deepest pockets or strongest cash flow, they topple other generations in terms of influence. They have high expectations and are full of opinions. They say their piece and say it loudly; more importantly, others actually listen. For those looking to sell to them, it would be wise to consider what they have to say.

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