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:
Pictured above: Madswimmer Founder Jean Craven waves the SA flag high
CAPE TOWN – “The Sky is the Limit” Madswimmer Team triumphantly returned to a camp in Kagkot in the Himalayas on Sunday afternoon, the 12 of May, marking their reconnection with civilization and their first steps on solid ground after a grueling fifteen-day ascent on the icy slopes of Mt. Putha Hiunchuli in the Himalayas. Their mission was to complete the highest-altitude swim ever recorded.
On the morning of May 10th, at an altitude of 6,405 meters, the team achieved their ambitious goal. They surpassed the previous record of 6,370 meters set by Australian Dan Bull in the Andes Mountains in South America, thus shifting the highest swim record to a new continent under challenging conditions- a testament to the indomitable human spirit.
Jean Craven, expedition leader and founder of Madswimmer, noted that the trek to the swim site was the most arduous part of the journey. Following three flights and a nerve-wracking 17-hour Jeep ride along steep cliffs, the team embarked on a 138km uphill trek that lasted 15 days. With the aid of eighteen sherpas and a caravan of 35 donkeys and yaks, they transported over a ton of equipment and supplies essential for their survival. They faced harsh icy conditions, battling wind and snow, and navigated treacherously near crevasses that threatened to collapse beneath them.
Pictured above: Madswimmers Vanes-Marie Du Toit, Neo Mokuene, Deniz Kayadelen, Chiara Baars (Team Doctor), Thufayl Ali (Cameraman), Sean Disney (Himalaya Tour leader) and Sean Jean Craven, Madswimmer Founder
Describing the swim, Jean recounted, “The last accessible liquid (swimmable) water was found at 4,900 meters. To achieve a world record, we needed to venture higher and create a suitable swimming environment at 6,405 meters. We carved out a swimming hole in the ice and melted ice in large drums that preserved the liquid water overnight. The swimming hole was covered under a tent canvas to prevent refreezing at night. The next morning, we removed the canvas, filled the ice hole with the liquid water we preserved, and took turns swimming in it for about three minutes each, wearing Speedos only. The water was chillingly cold at 3.7 degrees Celsius, with the outside temperature at minus six.”
Pictured above: Madswimmer Vanes-Marie Du Toit takes the plunge
The expedition was conducted with a commitment to environmental stewardship. After their historic swim, the water was carefully returned to the mountain, where it refroze.
Dr. Chiara Baars, the team doctor, diligently monitored the members’ vital signs and general health throughout. Oxygen levels were measured in the morning and again at night and it was interesting observing how sleep aided their acclimatisation overnight. Despite most team members lacking experience in high-altitude climbing, none suffered severe shortness of breath or other altitude symptoms. Three members took medication to facilitate acclimatisation, which was discontinued as they began their descent. Post-swim, everyone was warmed in heated tents, dressed in warm clothes covered with hot water bottles, ensuring their bodies recovered well from the extreme cold.
The team emphasised that their expedition aimed to witness and document the impacts of climate change. They encountered alarming signs, like running water appearing nearly 5,000 meters above sea level. The solid ice is crucial for binding the soil in these frigid zones. The melting of it threatens devastating land and mudslides that could obliterate communities. With global awareness campaigns initiated by Nepalese tourism and the vivid documentation by Madswimmer, the team hopes to spark meaningful discussions and highlight the urgent need to address climate change.
Pictured above: Madswimmer Neo Mokuene takes an icy dip.
Crowdfunding on BackaBuddy
‘The Sky is the Limit’ Madswimmer Team has launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy to support two children’s charities with their dedicated swim: the Universitas Academic Hospital Oncology Unit for Teens and Adolescents and the Red Cross Children’s Hospital.
Red Cross Children’s Hospital, Cape Town
The Red Cross Children’s Hospital in Cape Town provides critical paediatric care to children from across South Africa. Support for this hospital ensures the continuation and expansion of their life-saving work, offering a brighter future for children in need.
Adolescent Oncology Unit, Universitas Academic Annex Hospital, Bloemfontein
The Adolescent Oncology Unit at Universitas Academic Annex Hospital in Bloemfontein focuses on providing specialised care for teenagers battling cancer. Donations help fund renovations, create a lounge and entertainment area, and ensure that teenagers receive the best possible care during their fight.
So far, the BackaBuddy campaign has raised R24,200 of their R2,000,000 goal with the support of 17 donors.
Lize Marais, from the Helderberg region of the Western Cape, embodies determination and compassion as she strives to keep the doors of Milkwood Learning Academy and their beloved Toy Library open. This academy is a haven for children with special needs, including those with learning disabilities, autism, and Down syndrome.
With a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy, Marais is rallying the community to secure the future of 18 students by the end of March 2024, facing an urgent financial crisis that threatens the academy’s existence.
A Sanctuary for Learning and Growth
Milkwood Learning Academy, nestled in the heart of the Helderberg region, is more than an educational institution; it’s a place where vulnerable children discover their potential in a nurturing and accepting environment. Founded by Marais seven years ago, the academy has become a critical resource for affordable, quality education tailored to children with intellectual disabilities. “It’s a place where they don’t feel rejected, they feel safe and loved,”Marais explains. Her commitment to these children is unwavering, driven by a vision of inclusivity and empowerment.
Marais shares poignant insights into the impact of Milkwood on its students: “Over the years I have seen so many success stories. Children come to us with very high anxiety levels. Some were rejected by society, others were enrolled in mainstream schools, and were subject to bullying from other children. Many of my children can’t speak a word or read a word when they join Milkwood. Later they learn to talk, play with others, and even read books.”
Pictured above: Lize Marais with Milkwood Learning Academy students
Crowdfunding on BackaBuddy
Despite the positive impact on its students, Milkwood’s financial sustainability is at risk. The school’s inclusive fee structure, designed to accommodate families of all economic backgrounds, has led to financial shortfalls. “Our goal is to enable children with special needs to live meaningful lives within their communities,” Marais says, emphasizing the need for support to keep this haven for learning alive.
Pictured above: Lize Marais with Milkwood Learning Academy students
Since the launch of the BackaBuddy campaign, 13 donors have come together to raise R15,581 towards Milkwood’s fundraising target of R60 000 to address their immediate financial needs, including rent and daily operational costs
“As the deadline approaches, the story of Milkwood Learning Academy and its fight for survival serves as a testament to the impact of community support and the difference it can make in the lives of children with special needs, who are the most vulnerable among us.” – says Bernelie Barwise ( Social Media Manager at BackaBuddy.)
To support Lize Marais and the Milkwood Learning Academy, visit their BackaBuddy campaign link:
Over time, runners have recognized the potential of sports events as more than just a race—they’re also a powerful opportunity to rally support and raise funds through crowdfunding. Harnessing the energy and enthusiasm of participants, these events become a vibrant hub for both athletic achievement and philanthropy, showcasing the transformative impact of collective action.
If you have not yet pledged to support your favourite charity or bought your tickets for the event, have a read through our article below.
Here to guide you in raising funds at your local event, the BackaBuddy team has put together our best advice on how to run a successful crowdfunding campaign!
How to enter your chosen event
Before you begin your crowdfunding journey on BackaBuddy, make sure you have entered for the event on their website.
Launch your crowdfunding on BackaBuddy
Once you have registered, it’s time to create your crowdfunding campaign to raise funds for your chosen charity.
A key thread in all successful crowdfunding campaigns is a well-written, emotive, and informative story that connects with potential supporters of your campaign.
For inspiration on how to tell your story, Meet Zanele.
Zanele Hlatshwayo from Soweto, told a powerful, personal story. when raising funds for the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) in honour of her late father.
When writing your campaign story, be sure to answer the following questions:
Who are you and where are you from?
Which organisation are you fundraising for and what do they do? Do you have a personal connection to the charity you have chosen?
Your campaign message should highlight the importance of your cause and why others should support it. If the charity you have chosen has success stories or interesting facts to share with you, this will also help you tell your story. Connect with your charity and find out as much information about them as you can.
How much would you like to raise and how will these funds be used in a tangible way to benefit your charity and the work they do?
Take a look at these examples on how to write a tangible campaign ‘ask’.
For example, I am taking part in the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon 2024 to…
Raise R10 000 to purchase 100 school shoes for children in need at Afrika Tikkun.
Raise R100 000 to help Hillwood Primary School in refurbishing 1 classroom.
Reach my crowdfunding target of R20 000 to support Dignity Dreams in purchasing sanitary items for young girls so that they don’t miss out on an education.
Focus on the positive impact of donations
Presenting your campaign in a positive way can make a big difference. Focus on the positive impact the funds raised will have and the impact of your awareness campaign.
According to the 2018 Trends in Global Giving Report, by Non-Profit Tech For Good, 91% of donors are motivated to donate to causes when they feel positive emotions such as hope and empathy and only 9% respond to negative emotions such as fear and sadness.
For those who don’t like reading, put together a short campaign video!
Campaigns with video content tend to raise 4 times more funds, and are shared 7 times more on social media, as they are more personal and emotive!
Shoot a video on your phone
For a crowdfunding campaign, you don’t need professional lighting, equipment or editing skills to convey a powerful message.
We recommend shooting a short, personal and informal message on your cellphone that can be posted on social media as well as on your crowdfunding campaign.
Make sure you are presentable and wearing comfortable clothes (try to avoid clothes with busy designs or a lot of text).
Choose a clearbackdrop or tidy background to shoot your video.
Try to eliminate as much background noise as possible.
Let viewers know where they can make a donation to your campaign and include your crowdfunding campaign link in every post you share.
When choosing your crowdfunding image, choose an inviting and friendly image of yourself. If you have a photo of yourself in running gear, this will show your potential donors that you mean business and are already training to make them proud!
Set your target based on your network and available time
When setting your fundraising target, it’s important to consider:
Just like no one likes to be the first person on the dance floor, donors typically support crowdfunding once a campaign has a few initial donations.
Through data research, we found that campaigns with initial support from family and friends specifically, tend to raise 220% more funds.
How to share your campaign with close family and friends:
When looking for your first donations, we recommend sending a personal, instant message on WhatsApp, Facebook message, email or SMS to close family and friends, extended family, neighbours, co-workers.
An example of a message you could send:
“Hi Monique, I hope you are well!
I am taking part in the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon 2024 to raise funds to support FoodForwardSA and the wonderful work they do.
With my crowdfunding campaign launched on BackaBuddy I hope to raise R10 000 to provide 100 meals to disadvantaged children living in Edenvale, Johannesburg.
If you can, please be so kind as to donate to my campaign and cheer me on during the event.
If you’re unable to contribute, please share my campaign with your friends and loved ones: Here is my campaign link: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/
Once you have your first donations in, we recommend sharing your campaign to a wider audience on Facebook, Whatsapp and Instagram.
Depending on your chosen social network, read through our guidelines on how to make the most of social sharing!
Find out if the organisation you are raising funds for is Section 18A certified as a tax break is a great incentive to encourage donations in larger amounts.
Need more tips? Visit the BackaBuddy Impact Village or reach out to Simbulele from our marketing team for advice at [email protected]Want impact stories and top crowdfunding tips? Sign up for our newsletter and join our community!
