Macquarie’s own crowdfunding platform Ignite was launched last year and through its pilot phase it raised over $5000 for four University-based philanthropic projects.

To support the expansion of crowdfunded projects at Macquarie, the Vice-Chancellor will be providing $1000 of matched funding for the first five approved projects once they independently raise $1000 on Ignite.

Ignite an online tool which is available for staff, researchers, students and alumni to fundraise for University based projects and be supported by the Advancement Office through training and guidance. Project leaders are not charged any platform fees, and donors receive a tax-deductible receipt once their donation is processed.

Rob Perryman, a PhD student whose project on tracking Manta Ray behaviour raised nearly $2000 on Ignite, says the site – and the support of the Advancement team – made a big difference to his campaign.

‘Through Ignite, I was able to reach out to my personal and professional networks to gain support, and was delighted when the donations rolled in,” Rob says. “People were happy to support me and my research project and Ignite made it easy for my sponsors to facilitate their gift.’

Megan Pope, Head of Individual Giving, says the matched funding will be a huge boost to project leaders to gain the funds they need..

‘Research has shown that projects that receive matched funding receive nearly twice as many donations as those that don’t,” she says. “We’re really excited about what will be achieved because of this initiative.”

Ready to Ignite your project? Join a special Crowdfunding Lunch and Learn Session on Wednesday 13 March, or email the Advancement office (community@mq.edu.au) or phone 9850 1357.