Crowdfunding has become an increasingly significant alternative form of financing and plays a key role in driving business innovation. The aim of this paper is to describe how crowdfunding works and to emphasize its importance for the small business. The author analyzes the characteristics of existing business models of crowdfunding and presents the benefits and disadvantages of this new internet-based method to raise capital. This paper highlights the market size of the crowdfunding and the recent trends in its development across the world. In addition were investigated the current situation and particularities of crowdfunding in the Republic of Moldova. This article leads to the conclusion that wellorganized process of crowdfunding can successfully finance start-ups and increase investment opportunities, especially for small and medium enterprises.