Last month, we wrote about three Maine entrepreneurial groups that leveraged their dreams with the popular crowd-funding platform Kickstarter and how much hard work goes into setting up a campaign.

It’s gratifying to be able to report that all three groups not only reached their funding goals, but exceeded them. One even exceeded the goal by nearly $4,000! Each of the projects not only benefits the entrepreneurs, so that they can continue to make a living in Maine doing what they love, but their products and services all funnel back into the creative economy of Maine. And that rocks.

In a nutshell, here’s how each campaign did.

Emma’s Maine: Pure Maine Maple Syrup Production, Rockland

Project: This project is to expand its production of pure Maine maple syrup while lowering its carbon output. The project seeks support for technological upgrades to their commercial syrup equipment.

Project Team: Scott Arndt and family

Kickstarter Stats: $22,335 raised out of $20,000 goal. 181 backers. Campaign ended May 4.

Final message to backers: So, it looks like we've made our original goal of $20,000 and it's all your fault. Thank you! Yahooooo! Yippeeee!

We want all of our backers to know that we are overwhelmed by your support. Your willingness to share your hard earned money AND to connect us with your contacts is truly appreciated.

Thank you.

Emma, Scott, Melissa and Tyler

Fox i Printworks/Maine Island Letterpress, North Haven

Project: This project needs funding for supplies and technological upgrades, so they can run a sustainable letterpress shop on the island.

Project Team: Claire Donnelly, Sam Hallowell and Angela Cochran

Kickstarter Stats: $8,656 raised out of $5,000 goal. 126 backers. Campaign ended May 22

Final message to backers: THANK YOU!!!! Our backers are the MOST insanely kind, generous and supportive humans out there!!! You guys made this happen and we CANNOT THANK YOU ENOUGH!!

Next Step RUN! Owls Head

Project: This project is for a documentary featuring the challenges four women across the country face running for elective office during the 2014 mid-term elections.

Project Leader: Pam Maus

Kickstarter Stats: $20,215 raised out of $20,000 goal. 112 backers. Campaign ended May 23

Final message to backers: Last night at 12 a.m. I got to watch the Kickstarter Campaign banner line change to those magical words "This project was successfully funded." You not only made financial donations, but your contributed with your spirit, your friends, and your belief in me. I am truly humbled. The filmmakers, candidates, and I are already hard at work—we'll keep you posted along the way.

With gratitude on behalf of the Next Step RUN! team,

Pam