Frequently Asked Questions

Gifts FAQ

What is crowdfunding? 

Crowdfunding is the practice of funding a project or venture by raising many small gifts from a large number of people, typically via the internet.  

Are my gifts tax deductible? 

Yes, and you will receive a gift receipt for tax purposes from the University of Wisconsin Foundation.

What percentage of my gift goes to the project?

Your entire gift — 100 percent — will go to the project.  

When will my credit card be charged if I contribute?

Your card will be charged immediately upon completing your contribution. 

What is your refund policy?

Because you are making a charitable gift to the University of Wisconsin Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization, your gift is not refundable in most cases. To learn more, please visit our Refund Policy page

Is my gift eligible for employer/corporate matching?

Yes. However, employers’ matching funds can take several months to reach the University of Wisconsin Foundation. In the event the match does not arrive before the project deadline, it will be applied to the fund for future use. Learn more here.

Will a recurring gift count towards a project goal?

Your first month’s gift will count toward a project’s campaign goal. Subsequent monthly gifts will go towards your chosen fund but will not be reflected in the project goal totals.

What is the institution’s Employer Identification Number (EIN), also known as the Federal Tax Identification Number?

The tax ID for the University of Wisconsin Foundation is 39-0743975. 

Can I make a gift by mail or phone?

No. All gifts must be made online via the JumpStart platform.

What if a project goal is not reached?

Each project will receive all gifts made to the project even if the goal is not achieved. If a project cannot be undertaken because of a shortfall, the money raised will be retained by the sponsoring school/college, department, program, or center for use on a project with similar goals.  

What if a project goal is exceeded?

Each project will receive all gifts made to the project even if the goal is exceeded. The more money raised, the greater the impact.

What if a project goal is exceeded?

Each project will receive all gifts made to the project even if the goal is exceeded. The more money raised, the greater the impact.

Project FAQ

What kinds of projects can be submitted?

University of Wisconsin–Madison projects or ventures that seek funding for research and other academic activities may be submitted. The money raised cannot benefit or be designated to one specific person; rather, it benefits a team initiative, university program, or academic area. All funds must be transferred to a university account.

How can I apply to lead a crowdfunding project?

You can find our application here.

How are contact lists built for crowdfunding projects?

Project leads are required to solicit their own personal networks for crowdfunding campaigns because the success of crowdfunding comes from personal connections and contacts. The Wisconsin Foundation and Alumni Association does not provide an email list for crowdfunding purposes.

How long should I plan for preparing a campaign?

We recommend that crowdfunding teams set aside 30–45 days to plan and prepare before the campaign launch. A good rule of thumb is to apply 90 days before you need your funding in your account. This gives a team time to apply, be approved, plan, and implement their campaigns. 

What does it take to have a successful campaign? 

To have a successful campaign, you need a compelling story that clearly illustrates your need; a creative communication plan that reaches beyond UW alumni; and a willingness to invest time and effort into planning for, launching, and fundraising your campaign.

What if I’m interested in using a third-party site to crowdfund?

Gifts using third-party sites may affect the donors’ tax deduction. Please contact Josh Wolfgang at josh.wolfgang@supportuw.org to discuss the details.   

Are all projects approved?

We expect most will be approved; however, there is an approval process.

How can I get in contact with JumpStart?

Please contact Josh Wolfgang at josh.wolfgang@supportuw.org.