The University of Texas at Arlington FAQ

SPARK UTA is open to all faculty, students, and staff at the University of Arlington campus who are raising money for University-based and affiliated initiatives and projects.  University student groups must be recognized by the Office of Student Affairs and in good standing.  SPARK UTA cannot be used to fund research or non-student based academic projects, independent business or charity ventures, regardless of whether the people leading those ventures are members of the UTA community.

If the project does not reach its targeted fundraising goal, the project manager is able to keep the total raised but must use it based on the initial intent of the project.  The project manager should explain to the project donors how the total raised will be used if this occurs.

All projects will keep any funds raised even if the goal isn’t achieved.  Funds will only be deposited in University of Texas at Arlington accounts.  University Advancement staff will work with project team leaders and, where appropriate, establish appropriate accounts and make sure a proper University disbursement authority is in place.

SPARK UTA recommends a fundraising goal ranging from a $1,000 up to $5,000.  Successful projects involve a team of active members who are willing to email their circles of influence to ask for support as well as share and promote their project on social media.

Project approval is determined through discussion with the Office of Student Affairs and University Advancement.  Designated staff will review all SPARK UTA applications and approve them based on project essentials: team commitment, team connectivity, project appeal, and goal achievement potential.

Provide as much information about your project as possible.  Answering each question specifically and sharing why you possess the tools to run a successful crowdfunding project allows for the selection team to better assess each project.  Projects must appeal to a broader audience and have the potential to become viral on social media.  In your application, be sure to explain how your group is unique and what you would do with the funds that are raised.

To request an application, contact Jim Livernois, Director of Annual Giving, at 817-272-6864 or livernois@uta.edu  

Anyone on campus can apply to SPARK UTA, if they are either officially affiliated with an academic unit or recognized as a student group by Student Affairs.  SPARK welcomes applications from faculty, staff, and student teams with at least six project members.  The best crowdfunding projects have a specific deadline that creates a sense of urgency to encourage donations during the 30-day active period.  If you are unsure if a project is suitable for SPARK UTA, please email Jim Livernois, Director of Annual Giving, at livernois@uta.edu.

Success of crowdfunding projects comes down to one thing:  Planning.  Successful projects are those that integrate best practices provided by the SPARK UTA team regarding outreach, project design, and timing.  Successful projects adhere to the a 30-day “active phase” activities and build a strong team of 10+ people to contribute to the project.

Projects affiliated with the University of Texas at Arlington are required to use the SPARK UTA platform for crowdfunding efforts.  Projects posted on 3rd party sites will not be afforded the resources and assistance of the crowdfunding team.