Crowdfunding is the practice of funding a project or campaign by soliciting relatively small donations of money from a large number of people.  The funding campaign and transactions are completed online through a dedicated website or platform.  This platform includes public interface, project tracking, payment collection, and disbursement of funds.  Success relies upon the project team’s ability to connect with a large group of potential contributors via marketing to a network of contacts via email, phone, personal contact, and social media.

UTHealth Houston Crowdfunding Policy 

Use of crowdfunding to raise funds at UTHealth Houston as described in this policy and accompanying crowdfunding guideline is subject to all UTHealth Houston rules, policies, compliance regulations and state and federal law. Please refer to HOOP Policy 203.

UTHealth Houston’s official crowdfunding partner is Scalefunder, licensed from Ruffalo Noel Levitz. The platform is managed by the Office of Annual Giving. No other vendor or platform can be used to fund UTHealth based initiatives without written consent from the Vice President for Development and Public Affairs.

UTHealth Houston’s name, branding and/or logo may not be used without prior written approval by the appropriate UTHealth Houston crowdfunding administrator.

Prospective users must submit an application to the Office of Annual Giving. There is no fee for this service.  It should be noted that gifts are dispersed regardless of whether the campaign goal is reached.

Campaigns or projects that use UTHealth Houston resources, or affiliate themselves with UTHealth Houston in any capacity, must receive institutional approval from the appropriate university official as set forth in the accompanying campus crowdfunding procedures and application.

UTHealth Houston’s constituent information (email, phone, address, etc.) may not be used without prior approval by the appropriate approving official as set forth in the accompanying campus crowdfunding procedures.