Omaze is an extraordinary online fundraising platform that is completely different than any other fundraising platforms. Omaze offers once-in-a-lifetime experiences and exclusive merchandise in support of good causes.
Ryan Cummins and Matthew Pohlson founded Omaze in July 2012. Omaze is based in Los Angeles, California. The company has raised over $60 million for over 200 charities, including UNICEF, After-School All-Stars, Julia’s House, Product Red, and Make-A-Wish Foundation.
The unique selling proposition of Omaze is having their messages heard by asking celebrities to shoot 1 to 2-minute video asking people to donate for the good causes.On the campaign page anyone can enter to win the experience for a $10 donation. There is also merchandise, including T-shirts and autographed swag for sale that serve as additional entries.
One of the campaigns featured Idris Alba who was trying to convince people to donate to W.E. Can Lead in return the winner is going to be his valentine. W.E. Can Lead is committed to ensuring young girls receive the educational opportunity, leadership development and mentoring support necessary to become the new generation of female leaders across the continent of Africa. Safe spaces are created for girls to learn critical life skills, build self-esteem and defy the cultural norms that hinder them from fulfilling their full potential. W.E. Can Lead strive to empower girls to become influential leaders and decision-makers in their homes, communities and eventually, their country.
In December 2015, Omaze partnered with Star Wars, and people could pay $10 to be entered into a draw to win the opportunity to visit the closed set of Star Wars: The Force Awakens. The campaign raised more than $4.26 million to benefit UNICEF. The campaign launch video was a 2016 Webby Award Honoree. Omaze has had experiences with the following brands and celebrities:
- Star Trek
- Katy Perry
- Robert Downey Jr.
- Idris Elba
- Chris Evans
- Miley Cyrus
- Matt Damon
- Ben Affleck
- Channing Tatum
- Chris Pratt
- Game of Thrones
- John Legend
- Jennifer Lawrence