Client List & Portfolio

University of California, Irvine

Advancement Campaign Microsite

In Summary

• compelling lead generation microsite for comprehensive fundraising campaign
• streaming video and web 2.0 media strategy and development
• user-friendly interface and content for establishing web presence and driving online donations
• integration with existing online payment system

Client Background & Needs

Located in the heart of Orange County, the University of California, Irvine (UCI) is a major public research university founded in 1965. The university accommodates over 27,000 students, 2,000 faculty members and 8,900 staff – making it one of the fastest-growing campuses in the UC system and the third-largest employer in Orange County.

Committed to the latest cutting-edge research, creativity, teaching and learning methodologies, UCI has become a leader in innovation and discovery across the areas of healthcare, energy, environment, leadership and global citizenry at the local, national and global levels. Overseen by advisers, advocates and fundraisers, UCI’s Office of University Advancement plays a key role in advancing the university’s mission of teaching, research and public service. The advancement organization builds relationships and generates support by targeting the UCI campus affiliates ranging from parents, students, alumni, community members and corporate sponsors.

Through the Shaping the Future capital campaign, the organization is driven to leverage its greatest strengths in order to raise a minimum of $600 million of private support over the next 5 to 6 years to reach a $1 billion target – a goal that only a mere 1 percent of American public universities have accomplished thus far. In order to generate leads and maximize donor contributions, University Advancement needed to establish a strong web presence that would positively build awareness and consistently communicate fundraising goals.

EMG Approach & Solution

EMG worked collaboratively with key stakeholders of UCI’s University Advancement team and its marketing partners to further understand its core objectives and provide relevant recommendations to authentically connect with donors while leveraging the campus’ strengths. In an effort to establish a strong online presence and increase donor contributions, EMG carefully developed an online branded user experience that cuts through the clutter and enhances the emotional connection with its donor audience toward motivating online donations.

Intended to build public awareness and drive donor participation across the UCI community and beyond, the resulting microsite highlights the most up-to-date information around the Shaping the Future capital campaign. Intricately capturing UCI as a high caliber institution, the website speaks directly to its targeted audience, inspiring the much needed private support to sustain UCI’s mission of tackling issues that matter most.