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UCR Crowdfunding

UCR Crowdfunding is an online platform to help students, faculty, and staff raise money for specific projects through their personal networks, communities, and shared interest groups. It is similar to GoFundMe, but exclusively for the UC Riverside community. Donations made through the platform go to UCR Foundation funds and are administered by campus departments.

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UCR Crowdfunding Guidelines

Thank you for your interest in launching a UCR Crowdfunding campaign! This website will outline what crowdfunding is at UCR, next steps, and best practices for successfully launching a crowdfunding campaign.

The Office of Annual Giving (AG) will help you set an attainable goal, provide you with the resources to create your project page and marketing plan, and provide consultation throughout the process, but ultimately you and your team will be responsible for the marketing, outreach, and success of your project.
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Requirements

UCR Crowdfunding pages must meet the following requirements:

  1. UCR Foundation fund (A Foundation fund is managed by the UCR Foundation and provides support to a UCR Department on campus).
  2. Donations made to your project will be used as stated in the project description.
  3. Designated team who are willing to market the project before, during, and after the campaign.
  4. Submit an application.
  5. Receive approval from the Office of Annual Giving.
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Timeline

From submitting your application to thanking your donors, a project can take anywhere from 8-12 weeks and consists of a few phases. Below is a timeline outlining a campaign from start to finish.

Timing Of Your Campaign

When thinking about the timing of your campaign, AG recommends leveraging any upcoming events, celebrations, memorials, or milestones that could help promote your fundraising efforts.

UCR Crowdfunding Timeline graphic
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Interested in a Crowdfunding campaign?

Click the Campaign Setup Guide and Application button to get started.

Campaign Setup Guide and Application

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FAQ

  • General UCR Crowdfunding Policy

    UC Riverside faculty, staff, and students who wish to use crowdfunding as a means of supporting their student success-related projects should use the UCR Crowdfunding platform. This will ensure that the project is branded with the university’s name and collateral, that gifts to the projects are tax-deductible, and that UC Riverside is equipped to recognize and steward those donors. This will also ensure that no tax liability accrues to an individual as a result of receiving the funds personally through an external crowdfunding site. The funds will go directly into a university gift fund designated for the project’s use and gifts will be properly receipted to the donors.

  • When should I apply?

    Please submit your application as early as possible. 8-12 weeks before you need the funds is recommended. This will allow our office enough time to review your application, for you to collect/create your campaign's collateral materials, and to run a well-planned fundraising campaign. Projects will remain active anywhere from 6-8 weeks depending on your project's dollar goal. Raising thousands of dollars takes time and good planning. When you think you’re ready, look at your calendars and contact us ASAP. If there isn’t enough time this year, start planning for next!

  • How can I submit a project to the UCR Crowdfunding Platform?

    If you think your project would be a good fit, review the crowdfunding guidelines and submit an application. You will be contacted with further details once the Office of Annual Giving reviews your application.

  • What is a realistic financial goal?

    Goal size will vary based upon the scope and nature of the project. Crowdfunding platforms are primarily used for projects with goals between $1,500 and $10,000, but specific projects may effectively leverage a larger goal size.

  • How much does it cost to feature my project on UCR Crowdfunding?

    There are no setup or monthly maintenance fees for your department; however, the standard 5% UCR Foundation gift fee does apply.

  • Are gifts through UCR Crowdfunding tax deductible?

    Yes, all gifts made to the UCR Foundation are tax-deductible, and a receipt for tax purposes, according to law, will be sent to each donor.

  • Can I see an example of a past crowdfunding campaign?

    Absolutely! UCR has hosted several impactful crowdfunding campaigns that showcase the creativity and generosity of our campus community. 

    Here are three standout examples:

    Athletics: Give!
    Supported scholarships, equipment, and training resources for UCR student-athletes, helping them excel both on and off the field.

    The Luke Madrigal ’82 Endowed Scholarship
    Honors the legacy of alumnus Luke Madrigal and provides financial support to Native American students pursuing higher education at UCR.

    More Than Monarchs Butterfly Garden
    This initiative raised funds for a pollinator-friendly garden on campus, promoting biodiversity and environmental education.

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Still Have Questions?

Contact the Office of Annual Giving at: annualgiving@ucr.edu