Arts charity IdeasTap has launched a commission-free crowdfunding platform aimed at supporting creative projects in the UK.

Accelerator was created by philanthropist Peter De Haano as a response to cuts in public arts funding. To be eligible for funding, projects fall into qualifying categories such as film, gaming, fashion and product design.

“At IdeasTap we’ve been helping creative people to get their ideas off the ground for years,” said Mr De Haan. “Now we’re offering our members a way to raise project funding themselves without the commission fees other crowdfunding platforms charge.

“Accelerator not only gets them the funds they need, it also teaches them how to fundraise effectively, market a project, manage contacts and work to a deadline. Plus we’re going to pick up to two projects each month to top up with £500 from our own charitable fund.”