How Today's Tech Can Turn Small Donations into Big Wins for Your Sports Team • Kwillt

3 min read Published by Rebekah Barton on August 29th, 2024

How Today's Tech Can Turn Small Donations into Big Wins for Your Sports Team Learn how platforms like Kwillt can break down geographical boundaries in the world of sports organization fundraising.

Athletic teams today have access to numerous digital tools that can transform traditional fundraising efforts into dynamic, engaging campaigns. With the advent of social media, crowdfunding platforms, and interactive content, teams can now connect with supporters on a global scale, turning every campaign into a potential viral sensation. This digital revolution has opened up new funding opportunities, while allowing teams in all leagues – from youth sports to professional organizations – to share their stories in compelling ways, creating a deeper emotional connection with their fan base. From video content to real-time updates to interactive challenges, the possibilities for creative fundraising are virtually limitless online.

To maximize the opportunities available to them, sports teams can employ different strategies depending on their fundraising needs and target audiences. For instance, hosting virtual events can bring fans directly into the training room or the pre-game huddles, offering exclusive access in exchange for donations. Alternatively, teams might create a series of engaging mini-documentaries that highlight player journeys, special achievements, or behind-the-scenes action, each designed to draw in donations while boosting fan loyalty and engagement.

By taking advantage of digital tools, teams can raise the funds they need for their activities while simultaneously building a strong, engaged community that is (literally) invested in their success.

Kwillt for Fundraising Campaigns

Kwillt isn’t just for preserving memories; the Team Patch can also be used to engage with current team supporters and reach new ones. Here’s how sports organizations can potentially use Kwillt to further their fundraising efforts:

Exclusive Content Patches: Create special Kwillt Team Patches that are only accessible to donors – this is simple with the platform’s invite-only option. These Patches can include exclusive content for donors, like behind-the-scenes videos, in-depth interviews with players and coaches, or previews of upcoming in-person events, like fundraising galas.
"Memory Lane" Fundraisers: Use Kwillt to host virtual memorabilia exhibitions with past season highlights, famous alumni stories, and major wins – this is an especially good option for college programs that might have had NCAA players go on to become well-known professional athletes. Access to these Patches can be granted in exchange for donations.
Alumni Engagement: Reconnect with alumni by providing them with a Kwillt timeline where they can interact with current players, share their own sports memories, and see how the team is evolving.
Milestone Celebrations: Tie your crowdfunding milestones to specific additions on Kwillt, making each fundraising goal a part of a larger narrative. For example, when you reach a specific dollar amount, you could post a video message from a famous athlete who used to play for your team. Interactive donor engagement like this typically encourages larger donations.
Interactive Donor Walls: Create a digital "Donor Wall" using a Kwillt Patch. Ask each individual contributor or couple to provide a photo and a short message, celebrating their support.

Engage with Social Media

Social media remains a powerhouse for virtual fundraising outreach, and should be part of any online fundraising initiatives your sports team takes on:

Live Streaming Fundraisers: Host live streaming events on platforms like Facebook Live. There are various forms this type of social media fundraising can take, including social media challenges like the now-iconic ALS Foundation “Ice Bucket Challenge.”
Virtual Gala Nights: Host a gala event online with guest speakers, performances, and auctions. Attendees can view, participate, and donate to your sports organization via your social media livestream.
Online Workshops and Clinics: Offer sports clinics or workshops with team members or alumni, with registration fees directed to your fundraising goals.

By integrating Kwillt’s versatile platform with traditional digital fundraising methods, athletic teams can not only achieve their financial goals but also build a stronger, more connected community. In general, online fundraisers – especially when combined with in-person events – raise more money than live events alone because there are no geographic constraints. These strategies ensure that every campaign is as engaging as it is effective, turning every supporter into a vital part of the team’s success. Explore these innovative approaches to take your team’s fundraising to the next level.

Feature Image by Thomas Barwick/Getty Images