About Torch

What is Torch? 

Torch, hosted by ScaleFunder™, is Baylor University’s crowdfunding platform (think Go Fund Me, Kickstarter, etc.)

What is Crowdfunding?

Crowdfunding is the practice of funding a project that involves raising small amounts of money from many people. Often people consider this type of fundraising peer-to-peer.

Why Does Baylor Have This Platform?

This platform helps the Baylor Family raise funds to help their ideas and projects take flight.

 How Can I Request to Host a Project? 

Please note Annual Giving staff in its sole discretion will determine the eligibility of new projects on the Torch platform.

Please send the following to GiveBU@baylor.edu with the subject line “Torch Request.”

Project Name/Formal Title
Short Description: In 160 characters or less, please summarize the purpose of your fundraising initiative, why it is important, and ask for support.
Long Description: In no more than 3-6 paragraphs, the main case for support and will be used to provide information for any potential donor; (1) purpose of fundraising project, (2) fundraising goal, (3) importance of the project and why it should be supported, (4) how will the funds be used once the project is completed (5) an ask for support.
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Goal: Do you have a $ goal or participation goal that you want individuals to see the progress of? If yes, what is the amount?
Fund ID/Fund Name: 7-digit Vision Fund Id and Vision Fund Name for the allocation of gifts from Torch
Launch Date and End Date (Keep in mind projects like these do better with a sense of urgency, think 1 month or less.)
Project Lead(s) Name, Title, and Email; can have up to four

What Happens Once I Submit My Request?

A member of the Annual Giving staff will review the request to determine the best plan of action and get back to you within 7 business days.

What Happens if My Project is Accepted and It Goes Live?

Please note Annual Giving staff in its sole discretion will determine the eligibility of participating projects on the Torch platform and may discontinue an active project at any time because of a project’s failure to comply with Advancement guidelines.

As a rule, a project will run for 30-60 days and if it hasn’t reached goal by that time the content will need to be refreshed. If there are no gifts in 1 month after that, it will be taken down. 

How are Donors Thanked?

Baylor has a standard process for thanking University donors. If you would like something specific incorporated, please let us know so that we may discuss the request. Keep in mind, due to confidentiality, we are unable to give you a list of donors and their contact info.

Baylor University FAQ

What is an appropriate fundraising goal for projects?

For projects of $25,000 or larger we prefer that you have 40-60% already raised. If this is the case, we will work with you to provide recommendations on how to meet this goal.

Is my gift secure?

Absolutely. Torch is integrated into Baylor University’s online giving platform that utilizes Touchnet which is PCI Level 1-compliant. When making a gift on Torch you are just as secure as making an online gift to Baylor University.

Will my gift to a Torch project be tax-deductible?

Contributions to Torch projects support specific areas of the Baylor University and are tax-deductible as allowed by law.

Can I send a gift by mail or phone?

Yes. However, to be reflected on the Torch page, the Annual Fund Office will need to be notified of any pledges, or offline gifts accepted. You can contact the Annual Giving Office at GIVEBU@baylor.edu

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