What is crowdfunding?

At Nesta, we’ve been looking into crowdfunding as a tool for social innovation for several years. It is simply the process of raising funds online, from a large number of people. This is normally facilitated via an online platform, so that people can donate from anywhere and anytime. This enables people to donate anonymously (which we’ve found larger donors tend to like) and makes the fundraising process extremely transparent, as donors can see exactly how much has been raised and what the money will be spent on.

Who’s using it?

Crowdfunding is an alternative, community-focused fundraising method that is used by a wide range of sectors. Local authorities are using crowdfunding platforms to distribute funds - attracted by the transparent nature of the process and the ability to target specific geographical areas. Businesses are using crowdfunding to share their CSR pots through targeted match-funding campaigns, which combine PR and corporate giving in a super-efficient and effective way. Many would argue that Crowdfunding has now become mainstream and over the last three years we’ve been trying to encourage schools to make the most of this new method of fundraising via Rocket Fund.

How does crowdfunding work for schools?

Crowdfunding is a super simple way to run a fundraising campaign, it can be used as a standalone tool or in conjunction with offline fundraising efforts that you’re already doing.

When you create a crowdfunding project, the platform will give you a unique weblink. Which you can then share with contacts far and wide, via email, Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, any way you like! Crossing continents and timezones as you do.

The impact? Those who previously couldn’t make it in person to your bake sale or Christmas fair are now able to donate at the click of a button!

Here’s a short animation which shows just how easy it is to create a Rocket Fund project

Which schools are already crowdfunding?

Schools across the UK are using Rocket Fund to engage a wider audience, you can see the hundreds of projects they have launched here.

Browse our interactive map of all Rocket Fund projects below

These schools have all launched crowdfunding projects, inviting donations from local businesses, grandparents and alumni. Raising anything from £80 to £8,000 to craft inspiring educational experiences for their classrooms.

Is crowdfunding right for my school?

• Do you have an idea for something cool for your school that you’d like to raise funds for?
• Do you have a network of people you could share your project with? (Ask your receptionist to help!)
• Have you asked your HeadTeacher for permission?!

Great! You should try crowdfunding!

Try crowdfunding for your school by creating a project here.