SmartChange launches SwiftAid platform for emergency, disaster fundraising

Arkansas-based financial technology company SmartChange announced the launch of SwiftAid, the fundraising platform’s latest innovation that provides quick, cost-effective financial relief for people experiencing urgent crises.

With SwiftAid, fundraisers can launch a fundraiser within 24 hours and access funds raised in just a few days, ensuring access to help without unnecessary delays or high fees.

SwiftAid makes emergency fundraising fast, cost-effective, and efficient. With built-in personalization and peer-to-peer tools, people in need can create compelling fundraising campaigns that leverage personal networks and connect more effectively with donors.

Additionally, SmartChange donors cover associated costs up to 95% of the time, which means more money for the recipient or cause and less being carved away for processing services and fees.

The inspiration for SwiftAid came in 2023 when SmartChange co-founders Emily Wineland and Becky Pittman witnessed firsthand the aftermath of a violent tornado in their hometown of Little Rock. Amid the rubble, Wineland and Pittman recognized a critical gap in crowdfunding: funds weren’t reaching people fast enough, too much of the donations were being siphoned off by fees, and limited peer-to-peer tools hampered engagement.

“People in our community had active fundraisers to help with storm recovery, but fees made a significant dent in the amount raised, and they weren’t always sure when the funds would arrive,” said Wineland. “Helping people recover from a crisis starts with getting help to them quickly and cost-effectively, and SwiftAid makes that happen.”

“Peer-to-peer fundraising is an extremely powerful way to create sustained momentum for people in need,” added Pittman. “Launching SwiftAid means people can access relief faster, without the high fees, while also giving them tools to organize supporters and amplify their reach.”

SwiftAid is the latest innovation from SmartChange, which serves an array of organizations across the country, including nonprofits, religious organizations, education based programs, and name, image, and likeness collectives.

Learn more at home.smartchange.app/swiftaid.