BT MyDonate: reactions & rival platform offers

Monday's news of BT MyDonate's closure was met by disappointment from throughout the sector, as well as offers of support from rival online fundraising platforms. Here's a round up of some of the reactions. Charities, sector bodies and individuals all expressed their sadness that commission-free fundraising platform BT MyDonate is to close at the end of June. Extra admin, extra fees, and a reduction in the free / low-cost solutions available have all been cited as issues for those looking for a replacement as well as for smaller charities in general. https://twitter.com/snakeonbeach/status/1087307017927229440 https://twitter.com/MuslimGivingUK/status/1087447036763557889 https://twitter.com/MikeWildMacc/status/1087330397678174212 https://twitter.com/commsaddict/status/1087390847874859008 https://twitter.com/CambridgeCVS/status/1087406221534130182 https://twitter.com/QPCS_PTFA/status/1087332789471580161 https://twitter.com/sccoalition/status/1087379286443655169   However, not everyone was sorry to hear the news:   https://twitter.com/russellbenson/status/1087294944010752000   Other fundraising platforms have been quick to offer their support and services to BT MyDonate customers however: Virgin Money Giving was the first with its offer of a fee waiver until 30 April. JustGiving is offering a free three-month trial to BT MyDonate customers, while Localgiving is offering a free annual membership to current BT MyDonate customers. Localgiving’s offer is open to all BT MyDonate customers who fit their eligibility criteria until 31 July 2019. BT MyDonate customers can sign up to Localgiving using the Promotion Code ‘BT2019’. Chris Dormer, Managing Director of Localgiving said: “We haven’t been planning for this news – just like the thousands of charities affected. However, as an independent, non-profit organisation with a mission to support local charities and community groups we knew that we had to do something – we believe our range of services can make a significant difference to charities.” Beacon is also offering itself as an alternative, promising to import data from BT MyDonate in minutes and help charities switch to taking donations through its online forms. https://twitter.com/beacon_crm/status/1087382827493150723    

from UK Fundraising http://bit.ly/2Mopi90