1. Fun Facts!

2. Frequently Asked Questions
What projects can I raise funds for?
Your team can raise funds for nearly any project! Crowdfunding can raise funds for construction projects, scholarships, course trips, new technology purchases, and more. Crowdfunding is used in many different fields, making it a useful fundraising tool for a wide variety of projects.
What does a successful campaign look like?
A successful campaign is one that inspires, excites, and educates through storytelling. A successful campaign is personal and persuasive—the messaging discusses how the project will make a difference and why donor support matters.
How do I start crowdfunding?
If you think your project is perfect for crowdfunding, the first step you need to take is to ensure that your project qualifies per Penn State’s crowdfunding guidelines. If the project qualifies, then you need to assemble a team of five to eight people who are just as passionate and devoted to the project as you are. When you’re ready, submit your application at grow.psu.edu. The application will be returned to your team within a week. If accepted, your team will schedule a 15 to 30-minute interview to discuss your project. During the development phase, your team will receive a one-hour workshop to better aid you in the creation and organization of your campaign. When you are ready to launch and have made use of the resources available to you, the Office of Annual Giving will do a final review and launch your campaign.
What does the application process entail?
The application process through Let’s Grow State is simple and straightforward. The application will ask you to detail what the project is, who is on the team, the amount of funds you require, and the timeframe in which you would like to start crowdfunding.
Who is responsible for answering questions from donors and potential donors?
Your team is responsible for creating their own campaign content and for answering questions about the project. However, we strongly recommend referencing the crowdfunding materials when formulating responses to ensure clear and consistent messaging.
If I have questions, who should I contact?
Your team should always work in conjunction with the Office of Annual Giving during a crowdfunding campaign. If you have questions, please begin by contacting
How can I thank my donors?
Stewardship is an important aspect of crowdfunding, so thanking your donors is essential for future campaign successes. Your team can thank donors through multiple means, such as sending s, creating videos, or featuring thank yous on your Let’s Grow State campaign page. It is also suggested that you keep donors informed on the project’s progress throughout the campaign and if possible, through the completion of the funded project.
FAQ section:
Questions donors have may be answered in this section

3. Crowdfunding Technicalities
How does my team receive the funds?
Funds are processed through the University and deposited into a predetermined University budget (which includes ASA accounts). As soon as a gift is made and processed through the Penn State’s Donor Services Office, your funds will be accessible for use.
What if my team doesn’t reach our goal?
If your team doesn’t reach its goal, you still receive all of the funds you have raised. In the process of setting up your campaign, we will help you identify different milestones that will correspond to amounts that will be useful for you and your team.
What kind of payment methods are accepted?
The easiest way to make a donation is through a credit or debit card via the campaign page. In addition to paying with a card, ACH payments, checks, and cash are all accepted forms of payment.
Is my contribution tax deductible?
Yes, Penn State is a 170(c)1. All gifts greater or equal to five dollars will receive a tax-deductible receipt.
Is the amount of my contribution publicly displayed?
No. The default level of sharing is your first and last name and your location based on the zip code you provide during the process of making a gift. You may choose to make your gift anonymous to the public, but the campaign team will still see your name in their donation dashboard. To make a gift which is anonymous to everyone (including the project team), please contact the Office of Annual Giving at or
How much of my contribution actually goes to the campaign?
100% of the funds raised will be issued to the campaign you have supported. Each campaign will have a specific budget breakdown.
How will I know if and when the campaign reaches its goal?
You can always refer to the crowdfunding page to stay updated in the campaign. In addition, supporters will receive a post-campaign report.
What if a campaign exceeds its specified campaign fundraising goal?
Each campaign has a baseline goal in addition to a set of stretch goals. Should a campaign raise funds above its funding goal, the additional funds will be used to help the team meet their identified stretch goals.
Are contributions ever returned if the campaign does not reach its stated fundraising goal?
No. All fundraising organizations will receive the money they raise regardless of reaching their fundraising goal.