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Giving

 

GW Crowdfunding FAQ

For Project Leaders and Teams

 

At GW, crowdfunding is a way for university-affiliated individuals and groups to raise money for approved university programs, projects, and ventures. All projects must be approved, operate in accordance with George Washington University and GW Crowdfunding policies and procedures, and work towards advancing the mission and future of GW and its community.

Who can apply?

Members of the GW community: students, staff, faculty, and alumni. Each project must have an advisor that works in the Division of University Advancement. If you are unsure who would be your advisor, please contact givingatgwu [dot] edu (giving[at]gwu[dot]edu).

How do I apply?

Review the application checklist.

Complete an application. A staff person from the Office of Annual Giving will contact you to set up a meeting to discuss the details of your application. Your project will then be granted preliminary approval and you will be provided a list of required steps to complete before going live. Once complete, you will receive final approval and set a launch date for your project on the GW Crowdfunding platform.

When should I apply?

You are welcome to apply as soon as you are ready.

Which kind of projects are accepted?

See GW Crowdfunding Policies and Procedures.

Having a great cause is just the first step! Successful projects have a compelling story, motivated team, and robust audience to solicit for support. Please review the checklist before applying.

How long do campaigns last?

The typical GW Crowdfunding campaign lasts 7-30 days.

How long does it take to set up a campaign?

Projects are typically ready to launch no less than 30 days from the date of application.

After our campaign has ended, how does our team access the raised funds for the project?

All funds will be deposited into the DUA advisor-approved university account. Please work with your DUA advisor and applicable business office staff to access the funds raised for your project.

For Donors

 

Which forms of payment does GW Crowdfunding accept?

GW offers credit card, bank transfer, donor advised fund, and mobile wallet options. If you are interested in giving via check or other means, please contact givingatgwu [dot] edu (giving[at]gwu[dot]edu) and we will assist you.

Is my contribution tax-deductible?

The George Washington University is recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization, and as such you may be able to receive a tax deduction for your gift to the university. Please contact your tax advisor for further information.

Upon donation, donors will receive an electronic receipt that can be used for tax purposes. If a print copy of the receipt is required, please email your request along with a mailing address to givingatgwu [dot] edu (giving[at]gwu[dot]edu) or givingatgwu [dot] edu (gwgift[at]gwu[dot]edu).

Will my name be displayed after making a gift? Can I remain anonymous?

Donor names will appear by default, but can be listed as anonymous; that option will be available at checkout. Donation amounts are not displayed on the campaign page.

How much of my gift goes directly to the project and team?

100% of donations go to the project.

I made a gift, but want to do more. What can I do?

You can become an advocate for any project by doing one or more of the following:

  • Share the campaign via email, text, or social media. Creating an account on our platform will allow you to track the clicks and dollars generated by your outreach.
  • Create a personal plea, which is a short video highlighting your reasons for giving to the campaign.
  • Create a personal match and see your donation dollars inspire others! Example: "I will match, dollar for dollar, every gift made by students up to $100."
  • Create a personal challenge and create a friendly competition! Example: "I will give $100 if the campaign gets another 100 donors in 7 days."

Questions, comments, or concerns? Email us at givingatgwu [dot] edu (giving[at]gwu[dot]edu).