FUNDRAISING RESOURCES

How to fundraise for Universities and colleges?

This complete guide explores grants, corporate sponsorships, and innovative fundraising strategies for universities. Our in-depth analysis reveals practical ways to improve funding efforts.

Top 5 grants for Universities and colleges nonprofits in 2025

Unlock funding for your nonprofit with grants designed for Universities and colleges. Explore government, foundation, and corporate grants to expand your impact.

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Top 5 companies donating to Universities and colleges nonprofits in 2025

Partner with businesses that share your mission! Corporate sponsorships can provide funding, in-kind donations, and visibility to help your nonprofit expand and sustain Universities and colleges efforts.

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Top 5 best fundraising platforms for Universities and colleges

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Transaction fees
0%
Not publicly disclosed
  • Stripe: 2.2% + $0.30 per transaction
  • PayPal: 1.99% + $0.49 per transaction
  • ACH/Bank transfer: 0.8% ($5 maximum)

2.9% + $0.30 per transaction

Up to ‍5% + 35¢ per transaction

Platform fees
$0
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1.75% platform fees. 2.95% platform fees for event ticketing, membership payments and P2P campaigns. Reduced fees for pro and premium plans.
No platform fees but ask for donor contribution
Annual subscription. Undisclosed price
Monthly fees
$0 / month
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Donorbox offers 3 subscription plan: Standard $0/month | Pro $139/month | Premium custom pricing
No monthly fees
Value for money
Capterra ratings
4.9 / 5
4.5/5
4.7/5
N/A
4.5/5
Ease-of-use
Capterra ratings
4.8 / 5
4.0/5
4.7/5
N/A
4.4/5
Quality of support
4.9 / 5
3.8/5
4.8/5
N/A
4.8/5

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10 Best fundraising ideas for Universities and colleges in 2025

Innovative fundraising fuels your mission. From peer-to-peer campaigns to community events, explore creative ways to raise funds and ensure long-term success for your Universities and colleges.

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Frequently Asked Questions

<div ms-code-snippet-q="1">What are the most effective digital fundraising strategies for universities in 2025?</div><div ms-code-snippet-a="1">The most effective digital fundraising strategies for universities in 2025 include personalized, donor-centric approaches powered by AI and data analytics. Focus on mobile-first interactions, as younger donors prefer digital channels. Implement social fundraising campaigns, leveraging peer-to-peer platforms to reach $1.1+ billion in collective revenue. Optimize your website for search engines (SEO) and utilize Google Ad Grants for free advertising. Develop a strong monthly giving program, as subscription-based donations are on the rise. Lastly, create compelling content that showcases your impact and aligns with donors' values, especially for younger generations who prioritize transparency and mission-driven storytelling[1][7][9].</div><div ms-code-snippet-q="2">How can universities increase alumni donations in 2025?</div><div ms-code-snippet-a="2">To increase alumni donations in 2025, universities should focus on digital engagement and personalization. Utilize email, social media, texting, and online giving days as these are the top channels for alumni donations. Implement AI-driven personalization to tailor outreach based on individual alumni interests and giving history. Create authentic, impactful experiences that resonate with younger alumni who give based on personal connection rather than loyalty. Develop a strong social media presence to foster community and showcase impact. Consider implementing a matching gift program to encourage corporate donations. Lastly, focus on transparent communication about how donations are used and the tangible impact they have on students and the institution[2][3][7].</div><div ms-code-snippet-q="3">What are the predicted fundraising trends for higher education in 2025?</div><div ms-code-snippet-a="3">Key fundraising trends for higher education in 2025 include a projected 3.9% increase in overall giving. Expect a rise in mega-donors contributing gifts of $100 million or more, accounting for a significant portion of total support. Donor-advised funds (DAFs) will continue to grow, with a quarter of all DAF grant funding going to higher education. Digital and mobile-first interactions will dominate, especially for younger donors. Subscription-based giving models will gain popularity, offering predictable revenue streams. AI and data analytics will drive hyper-personalized fundraising efforts. Lastly, there will be an increased focus on donor retention strategies, as retaining donors is more cost-effective than acquiring new ones[1][5][7][9].</div><div ms-code-snippet-q="4">How can universities optimize their online donation pages for maximum conversions?</div><div ms-code-snippet-a="4">To optimize online donation pages for maximum conversions, universities should focus on clear structure and compelling calls-to-action. Use consistent branding to build trust and include a brief mission summary to reinforce the impact of donations. Implement suggested giving amounts to guide donors and make recurring giving options easily accessible. Integrate a matching gift search tool to capitalize on corporate giving programs. Ensure mobile responsiveness and follow web accessibility guidelines. Keep forms concise, asking only for essential information to prevent abandonment. Use PCI-compliant payment processors for security. After submission, provide a clear confirmation page and follow up with a donation receipt. Continuously A/B test different elements to improve conversion rates[2][4].</div><div ms-code-snippet-q="5">What government policies may impact university fundraising in 2025?</div><div ms-code-snippet-a="5">In 2025, several government policies may significantly impact university fundraising. The potential expiration of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (TCJA) will prompt debates on tax policy, potentially affecting charitable giving incentives. Nonprofit leaders are advocating for the reinstatement and expansion of legislation allowing charitable deductions for non-itemizers, which could boost small individual donations. Additionally, proposed legislation like H.R. 9495 could impact the tax-exempt status of nonprofits, though it faced opposition in 2024. Universities should stay informed about these policy discussions and engage in advocacy efforts to support favorable fundraising conditions. Institutions can leverage resources from organizations like AFP to understand and respond to legislative changes affecting the nonprofit sector[9].</div>