Network assurance contracts are far from a sure thing. It's basically an attempt to solve the tragedy of the commons, and the success rate society has had there is pitiful, even with strong central authorities. Assuming they will work is a big risk.
Sure, there is some risk, but Kickstarter is showing that the general concept can indeed fund public goods.
It's interesting you say that, I'm guessing you don't think there was a need for a Bitcoin Foundation then do you?