Improved facilities such as stadiums, gym equipment or dressing rooms can make a difference to the quality of the team, and also attract more fans. And community driven fundraising events will mean that you and your neighbours get to know each other even better and you might build more friendships and connections – it’s win-win.

It’s free to start a GoFundMe – why not take a look at this post and feel inspired to fundraise today.

What might your local GAA club need?

Whilst the prospect of jumping straight into setting up an online fundraiser is exciting, it is important to assess your club’s financial goals and needs. While writing a fundraiser, think about what you are trying to fund. For example:

• Equipment: This could be anything from nets, balls, cones and tackle pads to training or matchday kits. It all comes at a cost and every little helps when paying for it.
• Travel: Teams have to pay for their own transport to and from matches. This could be the cost of fuel for a team minibus, or hiring the bus itself. Teams might also have to travel further afield for matches, even to different countries, so flights and transport there may be crowdfunded for. There might also be things like supporting camps or academies which require travel to get to.
• Facilities: It might be the case that the team has to rent the pitch or needs money to fund things like the power in changing rooms. Maintenance of the pitch and facilities also falls into this – buildings need attention to ensure they function as they are meant to!
• Upgrades: Every so often, GAA teams may need to (or wish to!) update their facilties, equipment, kit or pitches. They may choose to fundraise so that this is a possibility.

It is important to identify the necessities to keep your club going and moving upwards because it is a good idea to include them in your fundraiser summary. When donors know specifically where their money is going, it helps them feel more connected to the cause, boosting that sense of community that is so important to GAA clubs.

Fundraising tips for your GAA club

There’s a plethora of ways you can get fundraising for your local GAA club. Take a look at some of our ideas below – and if you’re inspired, take a look at our easy fundraising tips.

• Charity matches or sporting events
  • Hosting a charity match with members of your team, the public and even celebrities is a great way to bring the community together to watch something unique. Use QR codes to point people to your GoFundMe.
• Fundraising events
  • Quiz nights, bingo nights, auctions or gala dinners are also a great way to bring the community together with the aim of fundraising. The GAA community is an extremely strong one, so utilise these connections and get everyone together to have fun.
• Family fun days
  • A really easy way to raise funds is to host a family fun day. Think about hosting a summer fete, Easter egg hunt, halloween party of Christmas market – hook it on the season and organise stalls, games and even performances.
• Virtual events
  • We might be long past the days of Covid-19 now – but living in a more technologically advanced world means we can all connect from the comfort of our own homes. Hosting a virtual event can be a really easy way to harness people’s time – they can tune in and donate all whilst cooking tea. Think about hosting a virtual concert if you’ve got some budding singers or musicians in the community, or a quiz, bingo night or yoga session.

Online fundraising

So, you’ve been inspired to get fundraising and are setting up your GoFundMe page. The good news is it’s free to start a fundraiser and GoFundMe is a custom-built platform with everything you need at your fingertips. Take a look below at some of our tips on getting started:

• A title: Keep it short and snappy. If you’re fundraising for a GAA team, make sure that’s in the title.
• Pictures and video: Illustrating your page with pictures or even a video of the GAA team you’re fundraising for really helps to draw people in and demostrate the cause.
• A strong fundraiser story: Your fundraiser story is the place where you can really get into why you’re fundraising. Go into as much detail as you can about why you’re fundraising, exactly what for and the reason it’s close to your heart.
• Share on social media: A key part of any fundraising journey is shouting about the fact you’re doing it! Share to as many platforms as you can on social media, utilising any team pages or groups you have. Circulate the link in any Whatsapp groups or email lists and also go analogue and print out posters with the QR code or link to put up where you can, too. Each time you hit a fundraising goal, share again!
• Post updates: Keep those who have donated in the loop with how your fundraising journey is going. Post when you’ve hit a fundraising goal, but also make sure you’re posting pictures of any recent matches or achievements from the team. Cross post these to social media, too.
• Say thanks! Making sure those who have donated feel appreciated is important. It can help to build future connections, too. You can thank people through GoFundMe, but it also might be nice to write personalised emails or notes saying exactly what the donation means.
• Approach local businesses: Offering sponsorship packages highlighting how they can help both the club and the businesses

Similar success stories

• St. Mary’s GAA Club
• St. Mary’s GAA Club successfully raised €10,000 through their 24-hour fun run, involving over 300 community members running or walking in teams to support local causes. The funds went to the development of the club grounds and benefit two local charities, including the Sligo Cancer Support Centre. 
• Lisdowney GAA
• Lisdowney GAA club managed to raise more than €1,400 to get to the county final.
• Ballina GAA Club
• Ballina GAA club managed to raise a massive €16,900 to get to a championship match in London. The GoFundMe supported the costs associated in travelling to and from the game.

Raise Money for your GAA club on GoFundMe 

Raising money for your local GAA club on GoFundMe couldn’t be easier. It’s free to start a GoFundMe and we are a custom-built platform for crowdfunding, meaning everything you need to be successful is at your fingertips. Start your GoFundMe today and see donations roll in – good luck!

The post How to raise money for your local GAA club appeared first on GoFundMe (IE).

The post How to Write a GoFundMe Fundraiser Story that Inspires Donations appeared first on GoFundMe (IE).

5 ways to get film funding for a production

1. Submit applications for grants

Film grants are usually private funds but they can be funded by the government, too. While a grant helps with funding necessary resources, it usually comes with certain conditions. These conditions range from the location of the shooting to the theme of a film. If you’re looking to have more ownership and flexibility of your project, you might want to consider other options. 

Keep in mind that you’ll need to submit an application for each grant before the deadline date. Additionally, certain grants don’t transfer all of the funds in one installment. This could potentially be a challenge if you need to make payments ahead of time. Since there tend to be many applicants for grants, it’s good to be actively searching for new ones that become available to increase your chances of being selected.

The Northern Ireland Screen fund can also offer grants. It can offer funds for Development  and Production – feature film (including feature documentaries), television drama, animation, factual/entertainment television and interactive content.

Cultural funds include the Irish Language Broadcast Fund (ILBF) and the Ulster-Scots Broadcast Fund (USBF).

Other funding programmes, each with their own section, include Film Education; Digital Film Archive; Cultural Cinema and Film Festivals; Skills and Training funding programmes.

Bord Scannán na hÉireann also provides loans and equity investment to independent Irish film-makers to assist in the development and production of Irish films.

2. Connect with investors

Investors are typically individuals who are independently wealthy. Obtaining an investor is a common way to get film financing. Networking will help you find an investor who might be interested in your project. Before you approach an investor, make sure you have a business plan, script, and budget. It’s also important to have a pitch prepared. You never know when you’ll encounter a potential investor, so by having a solid pitch you’ll multiply your chances of landing one.

3. Use film crowdfunding

While crowdfunding is a popular way to raise money for medical emergencies, memorials, and crises, it’s also an effective way to raise funds for your dream project. Film fundraising is especially valuable for first-time and independent filmmakers. Some advantages of crowdfunding for films are that it’s relatively low risk, low cost, and anyone who connects with your story can donate. 

Since crowdfunding combines the power of social networks and the internet, you’ll be able to reach more people than traditional forms of fundraising. There are also no extended wait periods to receive the money you raise. This is beneficial if you need the funds right away. 

Film fundraising websites

There are many online fundraising platforms out there, but GoFundMe, Indiegogo, and Kickstarter are among the top crowdfunding websites for filmmakers. Wondering why GoFundMe may be the right platform for your needs? The following is what sets GoFundMe apart from the rest: 

• Fundraising tools: GoFundMe offers a wide range of tools from our mobile app to team fundraising, making it simple for you to start, share, and raise funds for your film fundraiser.
• Customer service: Our Customer Care team is ready to answer your questions, offer expert advice, and support you along the way.
• Reach: GoFundMe will help you share your fundraiser near and far over text, email, and social media to garner support for your project. 

4. Speak to friends and family

One of the easiest ways to secure film funding is by reaching out to your family and friends. Consider asking them for a loan or offer them exclusive incentives if they invest in your film. Additionally, ask them to contact their networks to see if anyone they know might be interested in partnering with you for your project. Word of mouth is an efficient way to bring attention to your vision.

5. Gain sponsorships

Sponsorships are another way you can gain financial support for your film project. Try visiting local businesses, restaurants, and brands of gear or supplies you may want to use for your film. With sponsorships, you can potentially use the location of the business or its product in return for featuring the company in your film. This is useful for companies because it’s an opportunity for them to promote their business and attain new audiences. 

Inspiring film fundraising stories on GoFundMe

Check out a few success stories of filmmakers who used GoFundMe to raise money for their production.

Important Future of Food in Ireland Film

Funds were raised to create ‘Future of Food in Ireland’. Enough money was raised through GoFundMe to allow filmmakers to create the film and bring the project to the big screen. A red carpet, premiere and screening is in the pipeline after funds were raised, to take place in Dublin later this year. The film is created by a chef with an interest in food, sustainability and the future of the environment. 

Where The Old Man Lives -Rural Ireland Short Film

Aiming to shed a light on rural crime and isolation in Ireland, Where the Old Man lives sought to get funding for production on GoFundMe. Raising an impressive €9,500, the film has had dozens of donations to help bring the project alive. Donors have been able to follow filming updates, casting updates as filmmakers kept supporters in the loop of their progress.

Start film crowdfunding for your next project

No matter what your financial situation is, your story deserves to be told. If you’re in need of film financing for your next film or project, GoFundMe is here to support you. Before you start film fundraising, learn how it works. Then, use our top fundraising tips to make your fundraiser a box-office success.

The post How to Raise Money for a Film: 5 Film Financing Resources appeared first on GoFundMe (IE).

Start a wildlife fundraiser

Five startling endangered animal facts

An animal is endangered when the wild population has dropped so low that the species is at risk of extinction. Here are some quick facts about endangered species and protection efforts you should know:

• Under the U.S. Endangered Species Act of 1973, it is illegal to hunt, capture, or harm any endangered animal.
• According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature, globally there are 7,510 endangered or critically endangered animal species as of March 2019.
• Removing an animal from the endangered list is possible, though takes many years. For example, the bald eagle was removed from the list in 2007, after more than 40 years of conservation efforts.
• Freshwater ecosystems support over 100,000 species, including more than fish, yet are among the world’s most endangered habitats.
  
• As a result of climate change, between 30-50% of all species could face extinction by 2050.

Seven easy ways you can protect the wildlife

If you’re looking for how to save animals, there are countless things we can each do to protect the environment and the animals we share it with. From endangered species to rescue animals, there are many ways to help those in need. If you’d like to make an impact at home and abroad, take a look at some fun ways you can protect wildlife and species.

1. Plant native wildlife to attract pollinators

In many areas of the United States, bee populations are rapidly dwindling to the brink of extinction. Yet bees aren’t the only pollinators at risk—many types of hummingbirds make the endangered species list as well.

You can start a fundraiser to gather donations for purchasing native plant species, and can make a day of planting wildlife with your friends or family. This is both a good bonding activity and can go a long way toward restoring their habitat.

2. Start a recycling initiative

About 91% of all plastic products are not recycled. This contributes to the nearly 5.25 trillion pieces of trash that are currently polluting the Earth’s oceans, harming the wildlife that calls the ocean home. If you’re wondering how to protect endangered species in ways that have an almost immediate impact, collecting waste is a great place to start. Donate your time to recycling programs in your area, or start one of your own.

3. Host a community fundraising event

Work with your local community by hosting a fundraising event. Charge a small entry fee and decide on prizes. Make a donation using the proceeds to a charity that helps save endangered animals, and let participants know. Some great fundraising event ideas include hosting a party or banquet, a car wash (or dog wash), or a charity sports event.

4. Create a fundraiser to support wildlife programs

Crowdfunding online can be one of the simplest and most effective ways to help protect endangered species. First, choose an organization with active programs that help protect wildlife. Start by sharing your fundraiser with family and friends, and encourage people in your network to share on social media. Make it clear in your fundraiser which nonprofit will receive the donation, national or global, and how the organization will use those funds to help wildlife. Some fun ideas for a nonprofit fundraiser include hosting a charity sale, partnering with a local radio station or news channel to raise awareness, or organizing a benefit dinner.

5. Sponsor an animal

Another great way to protect animals threatened with extinction and save wildlife is to sponsor an animal. Both the World Wildlife Fund and the World Animal Foundation offer easy virtual adoption packages that benefit endangered species. Share your new adoption on social media to encourage those in your network to sponsor an animal, too.

6. Clean up your local parks

Start an initiative to clean up your local parks and other outdoor spaces you enjoy, such as wetlands, beaches, forests, or rivers. Additionally, starting a fundraiser to support outdoor clean-up means you can raise money for things like dog waste stations at trailheads, or trash and recycling bins at popular parks. This is a great way to save the natural wildlife and species in your area. Removing invasive species from these areas is also important and will help you save animals in your area.

7. Educate others about eco-friendly products

Many household cleaning products pose a threat to the environment. Whether that’s due to the evaporation of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the atmosphere, or toxic runoff into aquatic environments, the products we use can make an impact. Offer to speak at community centers or colleges about how to save endangered animals with eco-friendly products, or start a fundraiser to purchase eco-friendly cleaning supplies to donate to local schools or animal shelters.

See how others are fundraising

Take a look below at some examples of animal fundraisers highlighting how to help endangered species. The successful fundraisers below used GoFundMe for their online fundraising journey.

Preserving sea turtles in Costa Rica

As a college junior, Lisa raised over $2,000 to fund a summer internship focused on sea turtle conservation in Costa Rica. Lisa spent the summer working with marine biologists to build hatcheries to protect turtle eggs from predators. She also helped count and tag sea turtles for monitoring and cleaned up the beach habitats.

Raising money for Wildlife ACT

Kate raised almost double her $1,300 donation goal for Wildlife ACT, a South Africa-based organization dedicated to poaching prevention and animal conservation. Thanks to generous donors, Kate was able to spend two weeks assisting rangers with tracking and monitoring animals, and providing veterinary support.

Start protecting endangered wildlife today

We all want to do our part to preserve the planet, and protecting endangered species is one important way to do that. If you’re wondering how to help endangered species or even how to start, crowdfunding can be an easy, safe, and effective way to raise money for your favorite charity or organization. Now that you know how we can help endangered animals, start a wildlife fundraiser today and see what kind of impact you can make.  

Start a fundraiser

The post How to Help Endangered Species and Wildlife in Seven Ways appeared first on GoFundMe (IE).

5 ways to get team sponsorships

1. Create packs to send sponsors 

One effective way to get a sports sponsorship is by creating a one-pager/packet of detailed information to send to potential sponsors. Make sure to be specific in your explanation of what you’re looking for to get the attention of sponsors. Whether you’re seeking financial help to cover sport equipment costs or funds to pay for tournament fees, companies might be able to help in several different ways. Below are some examples of things to include in your packet:

• Explain what’s in it for them.
• Highlight the importance of the cause.
• Add real-life examples to form a connection.

2. Write an outreach letter 

Consider writing a letter to individuals and companies asking for financial support for your team. Just like the previous tip on creating a pack, you’ll want to be specific with your ask and needs in your letter. Explain to them the benefits of supporting your team. It may also be helpful to add a deadline for when you need to have raised the money to create a sense of urgency. An ideal deadline would be the start of the upcoming sports season. To help you get started, here’s a basic template that you can customise:

Dear [Name],

As the new season approaches on [date], [team name] is writing to ask for your consideration in giving either a sponsorship or a monetary donation. Our team heavily relies on the generous support of local sponsors like [you or company name]. The money we raise will go directly towards overall team costs such as travel fees, uniforms, and other equipment.

We believe a sponsorship could benefit [you or company name] by:

• [Make a bullet-point list of ways to collaborate together]

We are also open to any ideas you may have for achieving a sponsorship that will work for both of us. 

Thank you for your generosity and support.

Sincerely,

[Team name] 

3. Reach out to existing contacts

If you’re not sure who to reach out to for a potential sponsorship, start with who you know first. Approach parents of teammates or your team members themselves who may be business owners. Even if they aren’t business owners, they could work for a local company that might be open to being a sponsor. The benefit of tapping into these existing connections is that they are already emotionally invested in your team which will make them more likely to support.

4. Ask for sponsorship from your local community 

Beyond contacting your team members, connect with your community for local team sponsorships. Try to communicate your needs through local newspaper ads, online forums, and community groups. Some businesses in your community will cater to the same audience as your team. For example, a local restaurant where your team goes to eat after every home game. Chances are that these local business owners already know of your team so a relationship might already exist. This will make it easier to ask them about a sponsorship. Since your team and the local business are part of the same community, a sponsorship with them could be mutually beneficial.

5. Research corporations that offer sponsorship

Besides your local community, try expanding your reach to national corporations that offer sponsorship opportunities. There are many corporate sponsors throughout Ireland that may be able to offer financial help. Make a list of supermarkts, banks, hotels, etc. that are in your area so you know who to contact. Going to their websites and attending networking events are great ways to connect with corporate sponsors. Be sure to share your sponsorship pack with them so they have all of the information they need. By associating with a national brand, your team has the potential to attract other businesses that might be interested in sponsoring. A big company benefits from a sponsorship because they’re able to promote their business and reach new audiences.

Online fundraising for your sports team

Even after trying all of these tips, securing a grassroots team sponsorship can still be a challenge. Or, maybe your team still needs additional funding for certain costs. Whatever the case might be, sports fundraising on GoFundMe can help you reach your goals. Crowdfunding on GoFundMe makes it easy to reach people outside of your network. There are also no long wait periods to receive your funds. Build a fundraising team, create a fundraiser, and start raising money today.

Sponsorship takes time 

Obtaining a sponsorship can take time, so don’t be discouraged if your team isn’t sponsored right away. If you’re looking for immediate help, consider starting a GoFundMe. Whether you’re interested in football fundraising or any other sports team fundraising, crowdfunding is a simple and quick solution. Take a look at other sports fundraisers on GoFundMe for inspiration, then sign up to start fundraising for your own team.

The post How to Get Team Sponsors: 5 Effective Tips appeared first on GoFundMe (IE).

In our experience, if you approach different types of potential donors in the same way, you can miss the mark with many of them. People crave personalised communication. So, talk to different types of donors differently. You can inspire people to give to your cause by appealing to their personal preferences.

Breaking down the 5 types of donors

Learn what motivates different fundraising donors to give, then craft a unique message to each type, as well as to each individual. For more information about crafting fundraising letters for your fundraiser, see our post on how to write a fundraising letter.

1. Loved ones

Your family and friends form the front line of your support system. Since you have a personal relationship with this loved one, your approach should reflect that. Even when you know relatives will make a donation, never take their support for granted. Make it clear how their gift strengthens your bond.

Example message to a loved one:

“Hey, Aunt Katherine,

I’m really excited about the fundraiser I just started, [your fundraiser title]. I’m raising money to go on a medical mission trip to [location]. It reminds me of the time you and I talked about [experience or personal moment here]. It would mean a lot to me if you could support my fundraiser with a donation. Here’s the link: [insert fundraiser link].”

2. Casual givers

These donors like to give back, but don’t have the time or inclination to volunteer—so they prefer to make donations. They may not be devoted to any particular cause or organisation, and often make small donations to many different causes on their own time—including yours. The key to motivating casual givers is to show them precisely how their donations will make a difference. (This is true for all donor types, but particularly so for casual givers.)

Example message to the casual giver:

“Want to make a real impact in a college student’s life? Consider donating to [fundraiser title]. Your donation will help me buy textbooks for an entire semester. Here’s the link: [insert fundraiser link].”

3. Cause contributors

These donors are attracted to specific causes for personal reasons. They’re more likely to volunteer and make donations to that one charity organisation. For instance, a breast cancer survivor may feel compelled to help others by donating to causes related to breast cancer. The key to approaching cause contributors is to respectfully address their connection to the cause without pandering.

Example message to cause contributors:

“Hi, [name],

I’m raising funds and awareness for cerebral palsy and thought you may be interested in supporting my fundraiser. I’ve been following your daughter’s story, and her resilience after diagnosis is inspiring. Any amount you give will help me fight for people living with cerebral palsy. Here’s the link: [insert fundraiser link].”

4. Community crusaders

Your street, town—and its many niche communities—are filled with community crusaders. These benevolent guardian angels do everything from organising park cleanups and community improvement projects to cheering on local amateur sports teams. They love their neighborhood and don’t hesitate to invest in it. Show them how your fundraiser will benefit the community, and ask for their advice in reaching others.

Example message to a community crusader:

“Hi, [name],

I recently started a fundraiser to help clean up [local place]. As I’m sure you’ve seen, the piles of trash are both unattractive and damaging to our local habitat. A donation of any amount will help us restore the beauty of our community. I welcome any help or advice you can offer. Here’s the link: [insert fundraiser link].”

5. Big fish

In fundraising, big fish are foundations, corporations, and local businesses—donors that can give more money than individuals. The key to approaching big fish is to show, first, how your cause or nonprofit organisation lines up with their mission (this can be their central mission or their philanthropic mission) and, second, that supporting your cause will give them a halo in the community. 

Example message to a big fish:

“Hi, [name],

As you may know, [town]’s animal rescue facility was destroyed by the recent flood. We’re reaching out to you because of [organisation name]’s long history of supporting causes that improve animal welfare. Our fundraiser, [fundraiser title], will help give rescue animals a new home—all funds will be used for the construction of a new animal rescue facility in [town name]. Here’s the link: [insert fundraiser link].”

Aside from sharing your fundraiser, remember to post updates

Frequently sharing your fundraiser is just as important as posting fundraiser updates. Besides sending a fundraising letter to potential donors, try out other easy ways to share your fundraiser. Tag your friends and family on social media to make it easier for them to re-share your posts and reach more people. Or consider posting your fundraiser in a forum or group that’s related to your cause. It’s great to have your fundraiser link handy in case someone asks how they can help. 

As for fundraiser updates, be sure to share any new progress or challenges at least once a week. Letting your donors know how they’re making a difference can inspire more to give. In your updates, include any photos or videos to make your donors feel a part of your journey. Don’t forget to thank your community for their help—and it’s especially crucial to say thank you to donors when you reach your fundraising goal.

Expand your donor pool—and get everyone to jump in

By knowing which types of donors you’re approaching, you can tailor your fundraising appeal and run a more effective fundraiser. You can also ensure that you’re approaching the widest variety of donors possible. Do your homework before reaching out to potential donors, especially organisations, and be knowledgeable about who you’re talking to before you connect. Now that you know how to get donations on GoFundMe, start your fundraiser today if you haven’t already.

The post How to Get Donations on GoFundMe From Different Types of Donors appeared first on GoFundMe (IE).