What is Elevate?
Elevate turns one-and-done philanthropy into capital that circulates. We deploy recoverable grants — working capital or a revenue-generating asset — to mission-driven organisations. When the work generates revenue, the capital recovers to a shared pool and funds the next recipient. The same dollar does good many times over.
Who can apply?
Charities, social enterprises, and mission-driven ventures. We assess the project, not your registration — you don't need to be a registered charity or have DGR status. The one test: does the project generate revenue that lets the capital recover and fund the next recipient?
Is this a loan?
No. There's no debt, no interest, and no personal guarantee. Recovery is expected from a future revenue event but isn't enforced as debt — if the revenue doesn't materialise, the capital becomes a regular grant. The worst case is exactly what a traditional grant would have been anyway.
How do I apply, and how quickly?
Applications are open on a rolling basis — apply any time. We aim to be in touch within about two weeks, and funds are disbursed shortly after selection on signing the recoverable agreement.
How do foundations use Elevate?
Community foundations, Public and Private Giving Funds, and Community Charity Trusts use Elevate as an operating layer — deploying recoverable grants, tracking recovery, and managing donors and reporting. See the For foundations page for detail.
Do I need my own DGR or ABN to take part?
Not to apply for a recoverable grant — we assess the project. If you're thinking about your own giving vehicle, tell us what you're trying to do and we'll help you find the right home — from giving directly, to a sub-fund in a Public Giving Fund, to your own Private Giving Fund — or point you to a community foundation or adviser who can set one up.
What about compliance and governance?
For foundations on our operating layer we handle ACNC reporting, financial statements, governance policies, and record-keeping. Our governance layer is powered by Constellation (constellation.foundation).
What does it cost?
It's free to apply for a recoverable grant. For foundations using our operating layer, we charge a low management fee on funds managed — get in touch for current pricing. No setup fees and no lock-in.
Are donations really tax-deductible?
Yes. All donations flow through Elevate's DGR 1 registration, making them fully tax-deductible. You'll receive an official receipt within minutes.
How do I know my money goes where I intend?
Each fund within our system is dedicated to the cause you selected — your donation can only be used for that purpose. We provide full transaction history and impact updates.
Can I donate anonymously?
Yes. Check the anonymous option at checkout. Your donation still counts, your name just won't appear publicly.
What payment methods work?
Credit card, debit card, or bank transfer. All payments are processed securely through Stripe.
How do you verify recipients?
Every recipient goes through identity verification and project validation. We check that the work and recovery plan stand up, and conduct ongoing monitoring.
What if something seems wrong?
Email us at support@elevate.gift immediately. We investigate every report within 24 hours and take action when needed.
Who holds the funds?
All funds are held in trust accounts at regulated Australian financial institutions. Donations flow to approved causes and recoverable agreements — we don't speculate with them.
Is my data secure?
Yes. We use bank-level encryption, never store full card details, and never sell your information. Read our privacy policy for complete details.
We're here to help
Email us at hello@elevate.gift or jump straight into applying for recoverable capital.