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Indie Author Project Expert Session

Utilizing Kickstarter in Your Publishing Cycle

Kickstarter Head of Publishing Oriana Leckert, award-winning fantasy author Z.S. Diamanti, and INKfluence owner Dana Claire demystify Kickstarter for authors.

You’ve heard over and over again how great Kickstarter can be for authors. It seems like every other day, another author is launching a Kickstarter campaign for one book or another. But how does it all work? Is it meant for special editions or preorders? What are the real benefits? In this talk, Kickstarter Head of Publishing Oriana Leckert, award-winning fantasy author Z.S. Diamanti, and INKfluence owner Dana Claire demystify Kickstarter for authors.

Oriana Leckert is the Head of Publishing at Kickstarter, where she helps creators bring a marvelous array of literary projects to life. She’s written and edited for Vice, MTV News, Slate, Hyperallergic, Gothamist, Atlas Obscura, and many more.

Z.S. Diamanti is the award-winning author of the Stone & Sky trilogy, an epic fantasy adventure, and the Fables of Finlestia cozy fantasy series, which includes Guard in the Garden. In 2025, Zac was named Rocky Mountain Fiction Writer of the Year. He went to college forever and has too many pieces of paper on his wall. He is a USAF veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom and worked in ministry for over 10 years. He and his wife live in Colorado with their four children, where they enjoy hikes and tabletop games. 

Dana Claire is the founder of The INKfluence™ and INK Games Publishing™. An award-winning young adult author herself, Dana combines firsthand publishing experience with expertise in design, global manufacturing, Kickstarter strategy, and product development. Through The INKfluence™, she partners with authors and publishers to create special editions, launch successful crowdfunding campaigns, and produce high-quality products. Through INK Games Publishing™, Dana works with bestselling authors and publishers to expand book IP into officially licensed games, puzzles, collectibles, and other retail products. Known for bridging creativity with global production, Dana is passionate about helping authors think beyond the book and build brands that leave a lasting impact.

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