Funding challenges have always been a hurdle for sports clubs and governing bodies across all levels. However, within untapped potential lies an opportunity in numbers that could revolutionise the future of sports funding.
To secure a prosperous future, sports organisations must ensure they have multiple revenue streams. The power of the crowd, harnessed through innovative funding channels, holds the key to financial success. Digital lotteries and prize-led fundraising have emerged as excellent tools, enabling sports clubs and national governing bodies to diversify their income sources and ensure continued growth.
Leading this transformative charge is Gatherwell, an ethical lottery provider with a decade of experience in digital lotteries. They have helped raise more than £20 million for various causes and celebrate alongside 4,000+ lucky winners each week. Gatherwell’s online lotteries offer an enjoyable and entertaining means for sports organisations to engage their existing community and attract new supporters, all while providing a unique and memorable experience.
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Recent studies reveal that 25% of global sports organisations rely on a single donor for more than half their income, leaving them vulnerable to the whims of that one source.
“We’ve seen a huge increase in digital lottery adoption as organisations looked to diversify their income and modernise their operations.”
Phil Wright, General Manager of Gatherwell
Lotteries offer a way for sports organisations to tap into the enthusiasm of sports fans who are eager to engage and support their favourite teams or clubs. This dynamic fundraising approach complements existing efforts and provides new avenues for growth and financial stability.
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A significant 30% of global sports organisations lack a formal fundraising strategy, limiting their ability to finance important initiatives. This highlights the urgent need for clubs and governing bodies to diversify their fundraising sources with approaches like incentivised giving.
“Incentivised giving and lotteries should underpin any modern fundraising strategy. This strategy captivates and excites supporters, resonating deeply with the winning spirit embedded in the sports community. The allure of winning prizes while supporting one’s favourite sport fosters increased engagement.”
Phil Wright, General Manager of Gatherwell
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As a result of current funding challenges and rising bills, many organisations are having to make the difficult decision to close facilities.
“Our work with more than 100 local authorities has highlighted the difficulties so many sports organisations face. The services they provide are often considered ‘non-essential’ – for example, leisure centres and community gyms – especially during times of austerity and increasing costs.”
Phil Wright, General Manager of Gatherwell
In light of this, Gatherwell’s unique product offers a solution that has the potential to help generate additional income for sports organisations and various causes. Through Gatherwell’s platform, sports organisations can create their own lottery, securing extra funding for non-essential services and creating a sustainable source of income that would otherwise remain beyond reach.
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The poor conditions of many sports facilities present a significant challenge for sports organisations and local communities UK-wide – with tennis courts just one example of a pervasive problem. As costs continue to rise, economic downturns persist and priorities shift, finding secure and sufficient funding becomes increasingly crucial.
With conversations already underway with several sports organisations and National Governing Bodies in the UK, Gatherwell’s approach presents an opportunity to tackle the funding issues faced. Embracing digital lotteries can help diversify revenue streams, secure financial stability, and fund initiatives such as renovations and restorations.
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Since the formation of the Premier League in 1992, 62 clubs have gone into administration. Whether it’s Utd’s class of ’92 or Ajax’s famous academy system, the need to invest in future talent is widely recognized, but is often the first thing that is cut during challenging times.
Gatherwell client Hibernian FC, which plays in the Scottish Premiership, found success with their lottery, funding their future success by connecting supporters with the next generation of players. This innovative approach showcases the power of opportunity in numbers, securing financial support while investing in youth development. It serves as a great example of how lotteries can play a vital role in ensuring a prosperous future for sporting clubs, even in challenging times.
PHIL WRIGHT, General Manager, Gatherwell
Embracing the opportunity in numbers and reshaping the landscape of sports funding through innovative income generation is the way forward.
With Gatherwell as a partner, sports organisations and governing bodies can experience the transformative potential of digital lotteries and embark on a journey towards a thriving future for sports funding. By adopting multiple revenue streams and engaging the power of the crowd, the sports world can ensure continued growth and success while fostering a vibrant and thriving community.
Read the full interview with Phil Wright about Gatherwell’s lottery solutions here.
Or visit the Gatherwell website.
1 – BBC
2 – LTA via House of Commons Report
3 – OAKS Fundraising in Sport for Development report 2022-23
4 – OAKS Fundraising in Sport for Development report 2022-23
