Fund Me, KC: Bow Blast KC soft combat offers adrenaline-pumping fun

Editor’s note: Startland News is continuing its segment to highlight area entrepreneurs’ efforts to accelerate their businesses. If you or your startup is running a crowdfunding campaign, let us know by contacting news@startlandnews.com.

Who are you?
My name is Jason McCarthy, Owner of Bow Blast KC.

What’s your product?
We are a mix of dodgeball, Call of Duty and paintball — all using bows and arrows along with other soft weapons.

How much do you hope to raise?
$5,000

What do you plan to use the funds for?
We plan to use the funds to build our indoor arena so we can be open to the public 24/7.

How’d this idea come about?
At the age of 18, I was teaching my own Martial Arts classes. I started McCarthy Martial Arts in hopes that I could live out my dreams as a Martial Arts Instructor and pass on my knowledge to my children.  However, in January of 2015, I was injured on the job and my neck was broken.

I was told by the doctor and my surgeon that I will never be able to do Martial Arts again and it crushed me! With five children and no job, I was lost and broken. While healing and redirecting my life, I decided to find any sport or activity that I could do with my kids and to stay active.

I found Archery Attack, an Australia-based company that is gradually growing more popular and is all ages friendly. I connected with the owner and bought my first set of equipment. At first, we weren’t sure if it would take off, but as we worked and played we found a following and I found a new lease on life! I am active and am able to have fun with my kids again.

We can’t wait to share our fun with the world!

How are you differentiating your campaign?
We are giving away a free party to one lucky donation.  

Is there anything quirky about your campaign?
We use fun and sports to bring in our players.  

Any advice on crowdfunding?
Launching a funding campaign is not easy, but with the right thought and a strong conviction, and a belief in what your doing, anything can happen.