From the Nominator

In April 2020, as the COVID-19 pandemic developed, Ulster University identified that it could play a key role in joining the nation-wide effort to increase coronavirus testing capacities. The unique location of its world-class research facility (NI Centre for Stratified Medicine) at Altnagelvin Hospital in Derry meant it could work directly with the local health trust to increase capacity for testing. 

The university’s researchers were acutely aware that swift and accurate testing would not only help to curb the spread of the virus, but that it would also help to protect thousands of NHS staff members and other care staff serving on the front lines. 

The Development and Alumni Relations Office (DARO) worked with a professor of Biomedical Sciences, who had identified and secured an essential piece of equipment and accompanying supplies that would increase coronavirus testing abilities tenfold, to develop a fundraising appeal to raise the £100,000 required. 

Feeling that our alumni and the local community would be receptive to such an ask, DARO committed to the project, but we knew we’d have to move quickly. Just days after learning of our researcher’s needs, DARO launched its fundraising appeal on the university’s crowdfunding platform. 48 hours later (59 hours before deadline), the Ulster University community had contributed well over the amount needed, raising £112,000 (plus £8,600 gift aid) from 1125 donors. This was supported by a robust communications plan that included social media channels, paid social media, and direct e-communications.

From the Judges

Timely and effective use of budget. An example of identifying a need, working with institutional partners to articulate the need, and clearly establish goals and outcomes. This type of analysis from concept, through execution, and follow up analysis could be used as an example for others seeking to establish solid short-term campaigns for a clear need within their own community or campus. Well done!