About UM Foundation Crowdfunding

Welcome to the official crowdfunding platform of the University of Montana Foundation. Crowdfunding is a method of raising money through the collective efforts of many individual donors, typically by mobilizing short-term, online campaigns, to fund a project or cause. Administrators, faculty, directors, staff and students are eligible to apply.

For donors, this is the place to explore areas of campus need that align with your own passion for making a difference. The options for ways to change lives through giving are nearly endless — whether you want to support scholarships, student groups or campus initiatives, you’ll find opportunities here.

For members of the UM campus community, it’s a platform to help you garner charitable support for a range of projects led by academic departments, student groups and other official entities serving the UM mission. To submit a potential project for consideration, please click the "Submit Application" tab above.  

For more information, please see the FAQ below or contact us at giving@supportum.org.

University of Montana Foundation FAQ

What is UM Foundation Crowdfunding?

UM Foundation Crowdfunding is an online fundraising platform managed by the University of Montana Foundation. Crowdfunding is a method of raising money through the collective efforts of many individual donors, typically via online platforms, to fund a project or cause.

 

UM Foundation Crowdfunding empowers all UM supporters – on campus, in our community and around the world – to make charitable contributions of any size to help fuel projects created by students, faculty and staff that benefit and enhance programs managed by UM. All UM Foundation Crowdfunding projects support programs and initiatives that impact UM students. 

Is there a minimum/maximum gift amount?

The minimum gift allowed is $5. There is no maximum limit. 

Can I give to more than one area?

Yes, you can support multiple projects when you check out. Make sure to select "Add a Donation" on the gift menu to select the other areas you would like to support. Your card will only be charged once for the sum of your donations. 

Can I make my donation anonymous?

Yes. When you make a gift, you will have the option to hide your name and/or donation amount from the Donor Wall. Your gift will be displayed on the website as “Anonymous” next to the contribution amount.  

When will a project receive funds?

Projects will receive the funds once all the gifts are processed by the University of Montana Foundation.

Will there be a fee associated with my gift to a UM Foundation Crowdfunding campaign?

The University of Montana Foundation assesses a one-time 5% development fee on non-endowed, non-scholarship gifts. There are no additional fees associated with Crowdfunding. Learn aboutUM Foundation gift management fees.  

How is my personal and financial data kept secure?

UM Foundation Crowdfunding is powered by ScaleFunder, which is a product of Ruffalo Noel Levitz. Learn more about RNL's privacy policy.

Who receives my donation?

Your gift will go directly into the UM Foundation designated fund associated with the project. The UM Foundation is an independent, nonprofit organization that serves UM by managing private fundraising efforts, donations and investment of endowed gifts. Our mission is to inspire philanthropic support to enhance excellence and opportunity at UM. Learn more about the UM Foundation by visiting www.SupportUM.org. 

Is my gift tax deductible?

Yes, UM Foundation Crowdfunding is operated through the University of Montana Foundation, which is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. Your gift is tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Please consult your tax advisor concerning your particular circumstances. You will receive a gift acknowledgement and tax receipt in the mail from the UM Foundation.

What if a project doesn't reach its fundraising goal or exceeds its fundraising goal?

Regardless of how a project performs to goal, the money raised will go into the project fund. 

Can my employer match my gift?

Yes! See if your employer has a matching gift policy.

Who should I contact if I have questions or want to make an offline gift?

Please contact the UM Foundation Office of Annual Giving at giving@supportum.org or 406-243-2575 or 800-443-2593. UM Foundation, P.O. Box 7159 Missoula, MT 59807.