Ignite is a student-run crowdfunding competition that helps student groups raise money for the UConn-related programs and activities they are most passionate about. Over the course of a three-week campaign, student groups raise money and participate in challenges to earn a portion of Ignite prize money.
Ignite was launched in February 2013 to support student organizations. In the Fall of 2014, the UConn School of Law started its own Ignite program and in 2021 we introduced Ignite Club Sports, an initiative that supports the 35 club sports teams in the UConn Rec department.
Beginning in October 2025, Ignite Club Sports, Ignite Law, and Ignite Students First (formerly Ignite General) will occur at the same time! This change will help increase awareness of each Ignite program and give student groups the remainder of the academic year to use the money they raise.
Peer to Peer Crowdfunding Success
Since 2020 we’ve raised over $160,000 from nearly 5,000 donors.
Prize Money Support
Gifts to Ignite make a direct impact on the lives of students currently enrolled.
Visual Impacts
When you give, you get to choose where to give and see how your gifts make an impact.
Applying for Ignite
Groups interested in joining this year’s Ignite must review the Ignite Participant Guide and apply using the forms below. Upon completion of the form, group leads must sign and return the relevant forms. UConn Foundation staff will review each group’s application. Accepted groups will receive access to GiveCampus, the Foundation’s giving platform, to manage their unique giving page.
If your group participated in last year’s Ignite, your giving page will be cloned and you will be able to make changes once your application has been approved. If you are a new group, you will submit additional information as part of your application and Foundation staff will build your giving page.
Before beginning the application, be prepared to provide the following information:
- Group faculty or staff advisor and their contact information
- Group social handles
- Fundraising goal in dollars
- A plan for marketing your cause
New groups must also provide:
- A brief description of your group
- How your group will use donated funds
- How your funds will benefit or improve the UConn community
- An image for your giving page (16:9)
THE APPLICATION PERIOD FOR IGNITE 2025 HAS CLOSED
Visit our Instagram @uconnignite to learn more about the program and participating groups!
Don’t miss Ignite Flash TODAY from 1 to 5 p.m. Eastern time!
This is your final chance to earn bonus points for your favorite student group before Ignite ends. Every gift of $10 or more helps groups climb the leaderboard by earning points that unlock a larger share of prize funds, directly shaping student experiences at UConn.
Give today through the link in bio.
Ignite Day is Here!
Your gift today has an even bigger impact. On Ignite Day, every donation earns bonus points for your favorite student group, unlocking additional dollars from the Ignite prize funds.
With over 100 groups to choose from, your support advances the critical mission of our Because of UConn Campaign by putting students first. Your contribution helps fund events, travel, and other activities that directly enhance the student experience at UConn.
Make your gift today at the link in bio.
UConn Ignite is live. From October 6 through October 26, you can empower student groups to achieve their goals and bring their innovative projects to life.
See the full list of groups and make your gift today at the link in bio.
Ignite is back October 6–26! UConn’s student-led fundraising effort is combining Ignite Law, Ignite Club Sports & Ignite Students First into one three-week campaign. Ready to power up your group’s programs? Read the Ignite Participant Guide & apply by Sept. 12 at the link in bio.
New to ignite is the @uconnconsultinggroup! Check out their page to learn more about the events and other group activities they are raising money for!🔥
Next feature is @uconnclubtrack! Help these athletes as they raise money to continue competing in a variety of events. Check out their page to learn more and make your gift today!
🩰✨ calling all Ballet fans! Make your gift today in support of @uballetcompany today! ✨🩰
Our very first team feature of the Ignite 2025 competition! Say hello and support the Student Alumni Association as they raise money to support the success your favorite campus traditions!
Questions?
For additional information about Ignite, please contact:
Jonathan Wilson
Associate Director of Crowdfunding