FAQ - For Potential Project Applicants

 

What kind of projects can be submitted?

All projects should advance learning, research and enhance the overall student experience at SAIT. This includes those projects focused on student aid, athletics, capstone projects, and travel for credit and faculty-specific initiatives. Projects that raise funds for other charities will not be accepted. SAIT is a registered charity. All submitted projects therefore must meet charitable requirements.

Interested teams must apply and be accepted. Part of the acceptance process includes confirming that their project aligns with SAIT’s giving guidelines and ethics. 

What is an appropriate funding level for projects on this platform?

With some exceptions, accepted projects will have goals between $500 and $15,000.

Who can submit a project?

Any SAIT student, student club or faculty can submit a project for consideration. The decision to approve the project remains with the office of Alumni and Development.

How much information do I need to provide?

The Alumni and Development staff will polish your submissions but the more details you have in regards to the project, the easier it will be to understand the scope and meaning of the initiative.

Who decides which projects are posted?

SAIT's Alumni and Development department will determine which projects will be added to this platform based on the above criteria and expected fundability.

How do I access the donations?

Funds will only be deposited in a restricted fund associated with your project. We will work with you and, where appropriate, a SAIT representative to ensure the funds are available to you in due time.

How long does a crowdfunding take from start to finish?

A SAIT crowdfunding campaign takes from 8 - 12 weeks, depending on readiness. 

Once my project is submitted, how can I help it succeed?

• Prepare. Talk to your friends, family and networks about your upcoming project. Let them know you will be looking for support. Prepare your team so that everyone is aware of what the fundraising process will look like and who will be responsible for what parts of the campaign.
• Share. Share your project with friends, family and anyone else who you know! Use a variety of channels - social media, word of mouth, emails and even letters.
• Update. Keep the project alive with updates on how the project is going, videos, testimonials, and especially news of how the project or event went.
• Give. Make your own personal gift to support your project. It will be easier to ask others to give when you have already given. Remember the 30% rule. It is recommended that for any good fundraising campaign (including crowdfunding) you try to raise at least 30% of your goal before you launch publicly.
• Thank. This is important! Once your project is completed make sure you thank your supporters. When you have reached your financial goal or the end of the campaign, keep SAIT, your social network and your supporters updated on the success of your initiative. A great thank you is the most important part of any fundraising campaign - they may end up being a supporter for your project next year!