Samson,
Usually the money is held in escrow until they have collected the required amount to start the project. Once the amount or more is reached by the deadline time, Then the project is a go. Then you will receive your reward for helping reach the goal. If the goal is not reached then the money is refunded to the investors (you if you ordered.)
I have been on two great kickstarters from Micheal Kontraras and was delighted to be part of it and received two awesome figures at the same time.
Cheers
John