Spark launches new zero-fee crowdfunding initiative

Spark NZ (the company formerly known as Telecom) and the Spark Foundation have launched a new crowdfunding initiative..

The programme, called Spark Potential, is a zero fees, pledge-based website where selected candidates are able to access expert crowdfunding coaching, opportunities for increased public profile, and – in some cases – topped up funding from Spark.  It’s an extension of hugely successful online fundraising platform Givealittle, which Spark Foundation purchased in 2012.

Spark New Zealand Managing Director Simon Moutter said: “We’re passionate about New Zealand and we want to support New Zealanders doing amazing things.  What better way to unleash the potential of New Zealanders than by using digital technology and the power and generosity of the crowd to accelerate success?”

“Givealittle is changing the way New Zealanders fundraise. Since 2012, donations on the site have grown to more than a million dollars a month and we’ve just celebrated our biggest month ever in July. We want to build on this incredible platform and do more to help New Zealanders realise their dreams and achieve their goals,” says Mr Moutter.

While Givealittle is the fundraising platform for all New Zealanders and a variety of causes, Spark My Potential is a programme where candidates are invited to be involved. The projects on Spark My Potential are for people wanting to achieve an aspirational goal or dream.

Candidates can express interest in becoming part of Spark My Potential and suitable projects are then put through a selection and coaching process by specialist coaches.

To celebrate the launch of Spark My Potential, Spark has selected a line-up of inaugural participants who will each receive dollar-for-dollar matched funding from today, August 8th, until midnight Sunday 10th of August (or until project targets have been reached).

The inaugural Spark My Potential participant group includes the following projects:

• Jezza Williams: Tetrapelgic from North Canterbury looking to complete the London to Mongolia Rally, Target: $22,000
• Ricardo Christie (seen in advertising campaign): Gisborne Surfer hoping to join the ASP World Championship Series, Target $5,000
• Hayley Yu: Auckland University student on a mission to launch her own sustainable social business. Target, $4,800
• Chris Ofanoa: Auckland dancer crowdfunding to become a full time apprentice at the New Zealand Dance Company, Target: $35,000
• Scott Granville: Author from Hamilton looking to publish a children’s book, Target: $3,000
• Zac and Josh Lyon: Adventurers from Hamilton, the 22 year old twins are looking to be the first New Zealanders to conquer the world’s four polar ice caps. Rob Hamill is their mentor, Target: $35,000
• Iain Finer: Christchurch university student crowdfunding to test his rocket he built. Target: $7,000
• Amber Lenihan: Hamiltonian with a dream to create a business producing natural perfumes. Target, $10,000
• Scott Savage and Colleen Pugh: Creative couple from Dunedin with a goal to take their Tiny Travelling Gallery to London and Los Angeles. Target, $2,500
• Jess Berenton- Shaw: Wellington Mum creating a line of organic children’s clothing. Target, $5,000
• Jacob Morris: Talented musician from Christchurch looking to produce his first EP at the age of 16. Target, $10,000