Crowdfunding For The Student Trip

The first weeks of school are upon us and the fundraiser forms have arrived. Ugh. I can almost see the neighbors locking their front doors and hiding behind the curtains. Really, there’s only so much cookie dough a person can eat! If you’re ready to put away the wrapping paper and try something different, crowdfunding may be the answer.  It’s a great way to fundraise for the student trip.

What is crowdfunding?

Crowdfunding is a relatively new, online alternative for raising funds for the student trip.  It’s the practice of collecting small amounts of money from large numbers of people online. Crowdfunding sites allows tour groups to collect and organize donations from people they know (friends, family, etc.) AND those outside their inner circles (think businesses looking to donate to a good cause). Creating a group campaign in this way helps to ease the pressures of individual fundraising while working toward a financial goal.

Which crowdfunding sites work for student trips?

There are lots of great sites out there to explore. However, there are a few that work really well for student travel.

Fundmytravel is specifically designed to give travelers a platform for raising money. Fundmytravel takes 5% of donations and payment processor fees.

Fundly is free to create and share your campaign. However, they deduct 4.9% of each donation you receive as well as a 3% payment processor fee.

Gofundme is probably the most well-known online crowdfunding site. Gofundme now has a 0% platform fee but charges a 2.9% plus $.30 per transaction fee for payment processors.

How do we start crowdfunding?

Each site gives simple, clear instructions for setting up your campaign. Regardless of which you use, start with an engaging story that inspires giving and lots of appealing imagery. Share and update often to build momentum!

Crowdfunding for your student trip taps into the power of social media and the internet. It’s a great option for the digital world in which we live- and you just may get to see your neighbors again!

Fundraising For The Class Trip