Fundraising

Whether you’re looking to grow your society’s funds or raise money for a good cause, fundraising can make a huge difference. Here’s everything you need to know to get started.

Why Fundraise?

Boost Your Student groups Budget

Funding can be limited, so raising your own money means you can:

• Cover essential costs
• Run bigger and better events
• Improve your Matrix submission
• Build long-term sustainability

Support Charities

Fundraising is also a great way to:

• Give back to causes you care about
• Build a stronger sense of community
• Build your student groups reputation

What You’ll Gain

Fundraising isn’t just about the money. You’ll also:

• Build useful skills like budgeting, planning and promotion
• Strengthen your committee through teamwork
• Get your name out there and attract new members

Fundraising Ideas

• Bakes sales - outside Fulton/Bay
• Quiz nights and film nights
• Sports tournaments
• Themed parties
• Endurance events - Rowathon, swimathon, danceathon, comedy, gaming and film marathons.
• Fancy dress days
• Hikes
• Offer a Helping hand – Bag packing, Car washing, gardening, etc,
• Raffles
• Sponging your committee

Everyday Fundraising Tips

You don’t always need to host a big event to raise money. These small changes can have a big impact over time:

• Add a Donation Button

Include a donation button on your student group’s webpage or social media. It gives people a quick and easy way to support you—even if they can’t make it to an event.

• Slightly Increase Merchandise Prices

If you’re selling merch like hoodies or tote bags, consider adding a small markup.

Example:

If your hoodie costs £15 to produce, you could charge £17.50 or £20 instead. That extra £2–£5 per item adds up quickly!

This works well for:

• Hoodies
• T-shirts
• Tote bags
• Stationery
• Pins and badges
• Calendars

Let people know their purchase helps support your group—they’re usually happy to pay a little more when it’s for a good cause.

Top Tips for Successful Fundraising

• Set a goal: Know what you’re aiming for
• Make a budget: Keep track of costs and earnings
• Promote it: Use social media, posters, and word-of-mouth
• Get everyone involved: The more hands, the better
• Celebrate: Share your results and thank your supporters

What We Can and Can’t Do (as a Charity)

Because the Students’ Union is a registered charity, there are some rules around fundraising you need to be aware of:

• We can’t raise money for charity ourselves, but we can pass on money that your society or club raises to a chosen charity on your behalf.
• We can’t use the Societies Grant Fund to support charity fundraising, such as covering travel costs to a fundraising event.
• We can help with the tools you need—we’re able to lend out collection buckets and cash floats to support your fundraising activities.

Funding Opportunities

Looking for extra financial support? There are several funding options available, both through the SU and beyond:

Available via the SU Helpdesk:

• Societies Grant Fund – general funding support for student groups 
• Research, Engagement and Innovation Services (REIS) Grant – supports outreach and engagement projects
• Swansea Employability Academy (SEA) Societies Grant – for employability-focused society activities

External and Additional Sources

• SCVS – Swansea Council for Voluntary Service (third sector support in Swansea)
• WCVA – Wales Council for Voluntary Action (nationwide third sector support)
• Swansea University Community and Neighboring Grant
• Faculty-based funding – check with your department for any additional support

Sports-Specific Funding

• BUCS (British Universities & Colleges Sport)
• National governing bodies for your sport – they often offer development or event grants

Booking a Space for Your Fundraiser

Planning a fundraiser and need a space?

You can book a room, The Cove, or a stall outside Fulton House or on Bay Campus through your student group’s booking dashboard.

Access the booking dashboard here :

Helpdesk : Students' Union Support