University of Toronto

FAQ U of T Giving Day

The theme of this year's Giving Day reflects U of T’s fundraising and alumni engagement campaign: Defy Gravity, which offers a vision of Inclusive Excellence with global impact. Inclusive Excellence at U of T means embracing the broadest range of ideas, cultures, experiences, and perspectives to generate bold solutions for today's challenges.

All initiatives featured on behalf of the university’s colleges and faculties support accessibility, equity, diversity and inclusion. Give to the initiative that means most to you.

What is a giving day?

U of T Giving Day is a 24-hour fundraising campaign, inviting the U of T community to harness our collective power in support of our students and researchers. Driven by online promotion through social media, email and peer-to-peer fundraising, a giving day brings donors, alumni, friends and the community together for one day to support a cause or an organization.

Can I only contribute during the 24-hour time limit?

U of T is hosting its first Giving Day on Tuesday, March 28, 2023. But you can donate as many times as you like during the period of February 26-March 28 for it to count toward U of T Giving Day.

Can I give to a specific fund?

Yes, there are a number of featured funds on behalf of number of faculties and colleges listed in our Giving Day page which benefit students and researchers.

Where will my donation go?

Your donation will go to the fund that you choose.

How do the matching funds work?

Eligible gifts will be matched dollar-for-dollar, up to a maximum of $1,000 per gift. For example, a $100 gift will be matched with $100, and a $5,000 gift will be matched with $1,000. All eligible gifts will be matched, while matching funds last.

Is there a minimum gift amount to be eligible for the match?

No. There is no minimum, any gift valued under $1,000 will be matched while matching funds last.

What makes my donation on UofT Giving Day special?

On March 28 your contribution can make an even bigger impact, thanks to generous members of the U of T community. Your U of T Giving Day gift could be boosted by matching funds, unlocking even more support for your favourite cause, project or program. Be part of a day that showcases the spirit and generosity of the U of T community.

Besides giving, how can I help make Giving Day a big success?

You can spread the word to your friends, family and social networks by changing your profile image or posting about the day with our downloadable Giving Day images.

Can I make my gift over the phone or by mail?

Yes, while donating online is secure and easy, you can also:

  • Make a gift by phone
    • Call us at 416-978-0811, toll-free 1-800-463-6048 between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm EST
  • Mail a donation
    • Make your cheque payable to the “University of Toronto”
    • Mail to 21 King’s College Circle Toronto, ON M5S 3J3
    • Please note cheques dated after March 28, 2023, will not be eligible for matching funds.
    • If possible, please send your cheques in advance of March 28 to count towards the U of T Giving Day goal.

How can I make a monthly or recurring gift?

To make a new recurring gift online, choose your fund then toggle to the ‘monthly’ option (after February 25). To make your recurring gift over the phone, please call 416-978-0811 or toll-free 1-800-463-6048.

Please note that only the payment received by the end of day March 28, 2023, will count towards U of T Giving Day and as such will be eligible for matching, as matching funds are available.

If you have additional questions about monthly gifts, you can connect with Amy Johar, Senior Development Officer, at amy.johar@utoronto.ca.

Could I set up a named award or scholarship?

Yes, you can. Please contact Jonathan Cheevers, Senior Development Officer at jonathan.cheevers@utoronto.ca.

Will I get a tax receipt?

Yes. Tax receipts will be issued for all eligible donations. When you make a gift online you will receive your tax receipt automatically by email right after your donation is made.

Not a resident of Canada? Alumni and friends around the world can still help U of T in its mission. Find out more about international giving here.

What kind of tax credits exist for donors when giving to U of T?

Donors are encouraged to consult with a financial advisor; however, more information about tax credits is available here

What is the University of Toronto’s charitable status?

The University of Toronto is a registered charitable organization. Charitable registration number: BN # 108162330-RR0001.

How are online payments processed?

Our donation processing system is completely protected and secure. Information collected is only used by University of Toronto and will not be sold or shared with any third-party organization. Your credit card information will not be stored.

What follow up will I receive from U of T regarding my gift?

Once you’ve made an online gift, you will receive a confirmation email that the donation transaction was successfully completed. We will be sharing the results and impact of U of T Giving Day with all donors in May 2023.