New community app is connecting basketball club to cash donations

West Bromwich Albion Basketball Club is one of 75 clubs across the country chosen GiveToLocal to be part of the sports organisation's fundraising app.

The technology aims to connect sports clubs with local donors in a bid to help them sustain their long-term future.

GiveToLocal was launched in 2019 and works with more than 55,000 teams across 15 sports.

Its aim is to pump an additional £10m into community sport annually by boosting businesses and building networks.

High profile supporters include former England striker Les Ferdinand, England World Cup winning cricketer Mark Wood and Olympic swimmer Adam Peaty.

West Bromwich Albion Basketball Club are one of the latest teams to be added to the app as part of GivetoLocal's new Focus Clubs scheme.

“We’re excited to be able to provide our club with sustainable funding through GiveToLocal,” said player Jade Lin.

“Securing the funding would mean we could develop our programmes further and continue bringing more basketball to the wider community.

“It’s rewarding to be chosen as a focus club as it’s evidence of the fruits of labour and that what our club is doing is being recognised.”

GiveToLocal’s focus clubs initiative was launched to find teams capable of showcasing sport’s power and positivity in the face of the coronavirus pandemic.

All clubs gain access to the app and receive extra support from staff dedicated to helping teams connect to donors and sponsors.

“It’s fantastic to have West Bromwich Albion on board as a Focus Club,” said GiveToLocal CEO Neil Gardiner.

“Their application stood out from the crowd and we feel they can help to encourage more basketball clubs get on board with GiveToLocal.

“West Brom has a track record for playing a key role at the heart of their local community and fundraising is something they already do very well.

“We’re here to take them to the next level by helping them to secure the sustainable funding that can ensure lasting, positive change.

“As a Focus Club West Brom has the opportunity to point the way when it comes to realising fundraising potential.”

Via the app West Bromwich Albion Basketball Club has the potential to connect with hundreds of local donors.

Those supporters are asked to pledge a minimum of £3 per month and in return they can access a growing number of offers from local businesses.

“We love the idea of getting everyone involved in the funding process,” added Jade.

“The fact GiveToLocal allows flexible donations will really help our club and incentivise as many people as possible to get involved.

“Most of all it’s obvious to see that GiveToLocal are doing it so clubs such as ourselves can thrive with sustainable funding.”