Crowdfunding is growing rapidly in South Africa, giving non-profit organizations an opportunity to raise more money by tapping into the power of the crowd.
Although over R550 million has been raised on BackaBuddy for various causes, our most successful charities will tell you that crowdfunding is not easy.
To make things a little easier for our charities, our expert team has put together this article on how to diversify your income stream and explore different ways to raise additional funds by using some of the most famous local events.
Once you have registered your charity to raise funds on BackaBuddy, the next step is to find champions and put together a fundraising team.
Where can you find champions?
TIP 1: The best place to find champions to raise funds for your organisation is to reach out to past fundraisers who have supported your organisation.
TIP 2: If you have volunteers at your organisation, ask them if they would be interested in putting together a campaign to highlight a need you might have or help to promote your new champions that sign-up.
TIP 3: Reach out to friends, family, colleagues and social groups to see if the keen champions among you would like to raise funds for your organisation.
TIP 4: Create a post on social media to see if any of your followers are taking part in the event. If anyone on your social network is entering the challenge message them privately to see if they will champion your cause! You can also share this post on various groups and forums to reach potential donors.
TIP 5: Following the official social media hashtags for the event could also introduce you to potential champions. Click here to explore event-related hashtags via Ugenie.
TIP 6: Send out a call to action to your email list or database to see if any of your donors will be participating in the event and would like to raise funds for you.
Here is a template you could use:
Dear (name)
I hope you are well and staying safe.
We are reaching out to you, as you have been a valued supporter of our organization and the work we do.
This Month, we are putting together a fundraising team of champions for the _______________, which will take place from _______________. We are hoping to raise funds at the event to create awareness for our organisation and raise much-needed funds for _______________.
If you are passionate about our organisation and the work we do to _________, please consider entering the _______________ to raise funds on our behalf.
How to enter:
Register for the _______________ here (website). Create your fundraising campaign on BackaBuddy by letting the team know who you are, how much you would like to raise, and why you are passionate about your organisation here.
If you have any questions please contact Lakiwe your dedicated BackaBuddy Head of Charities via email: [email protected] to arrange a meeting.
The Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon
How can you support your champions?
You need to support your champions as much as possible to empower them to raise funds for you.
Show your champions who you are
If you have an organisational video and some emotive and inspiring images that show the valuable work you do, share them with your champions. This will motivate and inspire your champions on their crowdfunding journey and give them beautiful content to share across social media
Give your champions the latest statistics relating to your organisation and tell them about your success stories, so they can tell their networks about you and encourage donations.
Tell your champions what you need.
Crowdfunding with a tangible need, always speaks better to the public. Give your champions an idea of how funds raised will be used to benefit your organisation. This will help them determine their fundraising target and encourage potential donors to donate funds in those increments.
(For example)
“R100 will allow us to purchase 1 pair of shoes that will benefit disadvantaged children living in Edenvale, Johannesburg”
“Raising R10 000 will allow us to cover the data costs for 100 students struggling with online learning in their matric year”
“If we raise R100 000 with our crowdfunding campaign, we will be able to refurbish two classrooms”
If your runner has a personal connection with your charity and would like to fundraise for a particular need that resonates with them, this will make an emotive crowdfunding appeal!
Highlight your donors and help them spread the word
During your champions crowdfunding journey they will also need your encouragement and support to achieve their fundraising goal.
Create a post on social media to introduce your champion to your social media following, post updates about their campaign and congratulate them when they reach certain milestones. Encourage your champions to also share their connection with your organisation on their social media platforms when sharing their crowdfunding campaign link.
Examples of social media posts you could create:
Stefani from Cape Town is halfway towards reaching her fundraising target of R100 000 on BackaBuddy! With the support she has received thus far, we can cover the registration costs for 10 learners at UCT!
Communicate with your champions
Create a WhatsApp group to keep in touch with your champions, and check in on their campaign progress, and learn what’s working or where they might need help. Host regular Zoom meetings with your champions to motivate them, say thank you and offer them some encouragement. If you would like a BackaBuddy team member present in your workshops, let us know and we will be happy to share our expertise!
Encourage more donations
If your organisation is Section 18A certified, let your champions know to share this information with their potential donors as this is a great incentive to encourage donations in larger amounts. If you are Section 18A certified, let us know and we can add it to your campaign page for all potential donors to see!
We hope you found value in our advice, if your organisation has any questions, please reach out to us. The BackaBuddy team is here to help.
We wish your organisation and all your champions at the event all the best on their journey!
Crowdfunding with BackaBuddy empowers you to raise funds for any cause by harnessing the power of community support. Whether it’s medical expenses, memorials, adventures, or more, our platform helps you create impactful campaigns. Donations are purely out of generosity, allowing everyone to be part of the solution and drive positive change.
How It Works
Creating a fundraiser on BackaBuddy is simple and free. Set up your campaign, share it with your network, and start receiving donations. There are no time limits or penalties, and you can continue receiving funds even after reaching your target. We vet every campaign to ensure integrity, and for added security to our donors, funds can be paid directly to vendors. Payouts are processed within 10 business days.
Why BackaBuddy?
BackaBuddy offers a fast, legitimate way to raise funds without upfront fees. It’s an alternative to traditional funding, reaching beyond your immediate network. With no repayment clauses, donations go directly to those in need. Donors love the sense of community and belonging.
Watch the video below for more information:
Contact us if you need further assistance:BackaBuddy
Getting your crowdfunding campaign noticed by the media can boost visibility and bring in more donations. By connecting with various outlets, you can expand your audience and improve your campaign’s chances of success.
Here’s a simple guide to help you effectively share your campaign with the media.
Tips for Sharing Your Campaign with the Media
Tell an Interesting Story: Highlight what makes your campaign unique. Media outlets prefer stories that are impactful and relatable. Keep it brief—no longer than a page.
Create a Press Kit: Include a press release, good-quality photos with captions, and a link to your campaign page to make it easy for journalists.
Choose the Right Media Outlets: Focus on local outlets first—they’re more likely to cover community stories. If your campaign has broader appeal, reach out to national or international media. Tailor your approach to what their audience would be interested in.
Reach Out to Local Media: Once your campaign has 10-20 donations and is gaining momentum, contact local blogs, newspapers, radio, and TV stations. A third-person press release with quotes and visuals works best.
Find Media Contacts: Use resources like The South African Government Media Directory (linked below), check the “Contact Us” section of publications, or reach out to journalists on social media.
Personalize Your Pitch: Customize your email for each media contact, explaining why their audience would be interested in your campaign. Avoid bulk emails.
Use Free Tools: Platforms like MyPR and PressPortal are great for free press release distribution and can help you reach a wider audience.
Follow Up: If you don’t hear back, send a polite follow-up email. Persistence can make a difference.
Media Contact List
The government has put together a list of key South African media outlets, categorised for your convenience. Use this list to reach out to the right platforms that can help amplify your campaign:
Youth Day in South Africa, celebrated on June 16th, is a significant occasion that honours the courage and sacrifice of the youth who fought against apartheid in 1976. It’s also a time for today’s youth to consider their role in advancing democracy. The 2024 theme, “Actively Advancing Socio Economic Gains of Our Democracy” highlights the essential role of young people in building a brighter future.
At BackaBuddy, we believe in empowering youth through volunteering, community engagement, and innovative tools like online crowdfunding. Here’s a list of activities that promote personal growth, community development, and equip young people with the skills to drive social change.
Supporting a Peer’s Cause or Launching a Crowdfunding Campaign:
Youth Day is a great time to support a peer’s cause or start your own initiative. With BackaBuddy, you can leverage the power of online crowdfunding to create a significant impact.
How to Support a Peer’s Cause:
Find a Campaign: Browse BackaBuddy’s Campaigns to find a cause you’re passionate about. You can support various projects ranging from education and healthcare to community development.
Donate: Contribute financially to a campaign that resonates with you. Even small donations can make a big difference.
Share: Use social media to share the campaign with your network, encouraging more people to support the cause.
How to Start Your Own Crowdfunding Campaign:
Identify a Cause: Determine a community need or a personal project you’re passionate about.
Create a Campaign:Start a campaign by providing details about the cause, the goals, and how the funds will be used.
Promote Your Campaign: Share your campaign through social media, email, and community networks to reach potential donors.
Engage Your Supporters: Keep your supporters updated on your campaign’s progress and express gratitude for their contributions.
Volunteering and Community Engagement Opportunities Across South Africa:
Find volunteer opportunities that align with your interests. Check the websites listed below for more information.
1. Eastern Cape: Project NMB
Project NMB (Nelson Mandela Bay) is dedicated to community upliftment through various initiatives, including environmental clean-ups, youth empowerment programs, and social development projects. Volunteers can engage in diverse activities that promote sustainable community growth and wellbeing.
Kidz Care Trust offers shelter, education, and support to street children in Bloemfontein. Volunteers can assist with tutoring, mentoring, and organising recreational activities, helping these children build a brighter future.
IkamvaYouth provides after-school tutoring and mentoring to high school students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Volunteers can help with academic support, career guidance, and organising educational activities.
Location: Johannesburg, Pretoria, and various other locations
4. KwaZulu-Natal: The Domino Foundation
The Domino Foundation is dedicated to supporting vulnerable communities through a variety of programs, including feeding schemes, education, and enterprise development. Volunteers can assist in food distribution, educational support, and participating in community upliftment initiatives.
Location: Durban and surrounding areas, KwaZulu-Natal
5. Limpopo: Oasis Haven of Love Foundation
Oasis Haven of Love Foundation focuses on providing care and support to vulnerable children and families in Limpopo. Volunteers can engage in activities such as mentoring, tutoring, and community outreach, helping to create a positive impact in the lives of those in need.
Hands at Work supports vulnerable children and families through community care centers. Volunteers can assist in providing education, healthcare, and food security to those in need.
NOAH (Neighbourhood Old Age Homes) supports the elderly in impoverished communities. Volunteers can engage in intergenerational activities, offering companionship and support to elderly residents while learning from their experiences.
Youth for Change Initiative focuses on empowering young people in the North West province through leadership development, skills training, and community projects. Volunteers can participate in youth-led initiatives that address local challenges and promote positive change.
9. Western Cape: Habitat for Humanity South Africa
Habitat for Humanity builds and renovates homes for families in need. Volunteers can participate in construction projects, helping to provide safe and affordable housing while learning valuable building skills.
Location: Cape Town and other locations across the Western Cape
Why Volunteering and Community Engagement Matter:
Personal Growth: Volunteering exposes youth to diverse experiences, fostering empathy and broadening perspectives.
Skill Development: Engaging in community activities helps develop practical skills such as leadership, communication, and teamwork.
Building Connections: Volunteering provides opportunities to meet new people, build networks, and strengthen community ties.
Creating Impact: Young people can make a significant difference in their communities by addressing local needs through volunteer work.
At BackaBuddy, we are committed to supporting youth and community development. Whether you’re looking to volunteer, support a peer’s cause, or start your own crowdfunding campaign, we’re here to help you make a difference. Join us this Youth Day in celebrating the power of youth engagement and building a brighter, more inclusive South Africa.
Liam Coetzee a 18-year-old matric student at Fish Hoek High School in Cape Town, is embarking on a journey from the local rugby fields in South Africa to the international stages in Ireland where he will not only shine bright for his skills but also for his dedication, perseverance, and passion for the game.
Pictured above: 18-year-old aspiring rugby player Liam Coetzee
“Liam has a good sense of humour and is a great leader. He is very self motivated and determined and once he has set his mind to do something he doesn’t give up. He inspires his peers and is always pushing hard for the next goal.” says Liam’s proud mum Gail.
Born and raised in the heart of South Africa, Liam’s love for rugby ignited when he was just 6-years-old while watching rugby with his dad who is a big fan of the sport. From the moment he first held a rugby ball in primary school, he knew that this sport would be his calling. Over the years, his dedication and determination transformed him into a formidable player, earning him recognition both on and off the field.
At Fish Hoek High School, Liam’s leadership qualities were evident as he was elected head student and appointed captain of the u19 1st team rugby in 2024. His peers and coaches alike admired his unwavering work ethic, persistence, and self-motivation, traits that not only propelled his own performance but also inspired those around him.
Pictured above: Liam with his rugby squad
“Rugby is a true source of happiness where I can develop physically and mentally. It’s an escape from the stress of school and life in general all while being a part of a brotherhood that plays for something bigger than any one player. A career in rugby would be incredible, I’m planning on studying engineering next year but would love to keep playing and maybe go pro.” says Liam
In addition to his achievements in rugby, Liam excelled academically, earning full colours for school academics and the prestigious Springbok Scout award. His ability to balance sporting excellence with academic success speaks volumes about his character and determination to excel in all aspects of life.
Pictured above: Liam with his sister Josie
But Liam’s journey doesn’t stop at the school gates or within the local league. His talent and hard work have caught the attention of scouts beyond South Africa’s borders. Currently, he is attending trials for the Western Province (WP) u19 provincial side, aiming to represent his province at the highest level.
However, the pinnacle of Liam’s rugby journey lies in an opportunity that transcends borders and continents—the Rhino Rugby Touring side. Selected to be a part of this elite squad, Liam will be travelling to Ireland this September to compete alongside international teams, train with top youth players and coaches, and immerse himself in the rich history of rugby.
“This opportunity truly means the world to me, it’s the result of years of passion and belief. Not only from me but from my family, teammates and community. It’s an opportunity to see the sport I love from a whole new perspective.” Liam tells us.
Pictured above: Liam with the Fish Hoek u19 A first team
This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity is not just about playing the game; it’s about experiencing the camaraderie of international competition, learning from the best in the world, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. For Liam, it’s a dream come true, a chance to represent his country on foreign soil and showcase his talent on a global stage.
However, realising this dream comes with its challenges. The financial burden of such a trip is significant, especially on short notice. Which is why Liam and his family has started a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy where they have already managed to raise over R27 000 of their R50 000 goal with the help of 17 amazing donors.
“I am incredibly grateful for each donation and honestly overwhelmed by the timely support I’ve received. A massive thanks to all for believing in me, your generosity is inspiring and I promise to make the most of it.” says Liam.
