Vancouver Island University students are receiving financial support through quick response technology.
The university is one of the first post-secondary institutions in the country to use Mobio QR codes as a fundraising tool.
By downloading an app created by Mobio (www.getmobio.com), smartphone users can scan VIU’s new QR codes and then, in less than a minute, make a donation to VIU for any amount.
“We are excited by the possibilities opened up by this new technology,” said Julie Keenan, director, VIU development and alumni office. “It’s a fundraising tool that will allow us to reach out in a different way to both established and new donors, as it makes it possible for people to easily donate any amount to VIU.”
VIU has three QR codes which can be viewed and used online at http://www.viu.ca/giving/QRCodes.asp.
One will be used for general donations supporting VIU students through scholarships and bursaries, one to raise funds for the new Deep Bay Marine Field Station, and the third to support Milner Gardens and Woodland in Qualicum Beach.
Once the app is downloaded, smartphone users simply scan the relevant code, punch in their donation amount and hit send.
As the primary fundraising arm of the university, the development and alumni office is responsible for supplementing government funds for capital projects and generating contributions to assist students.
For more information on app donations or VIU’s development program, please go to www.viu.ca/alumni, e-mail janina.stajic@viu.ca or call 250-740-6215.