Match funding platform Big Give has opened the application process for charities to take part in its Christmas Challenge fundraiser.

It will run from 2-9 December in line with Giving Tuesday with donations from the public matched by Big Give’s funding partners of philanthropists, foundations and companies.

Charities that take part will have access to up to £25,000 in funding through the campaign. Those that took part last year had a median annual income of £611,353 and more than two thirds had incomes under £1m.

Last year the campaign saw 1,267 charities share £44.7m, a record sum for the annual event.

“After last year’s record result, which saw the Christmas Challenge become the UK’s biggest collaborative fundraising campaign, we’re excited to invite both returning and new charities to take part in what promises to be another extraordinary campaign,” said Big Give managing director Alex Day.

“This is one of the best opportunities for charities to double their impact at Christmas thanks to the generosity of Champion funders and the public who consistently support the many wonderful causes that benefit from the campaign.”

The deadline for applications is 4 July.

Big Give offers support for charities to maximise their fundraising, including marketing resources, training and access to fundraising tools.

“It was fantastic to receive support from Big Give’s PR Team to secure some national media coverage for our campaign with an interview with one of our Ambassadors in the Daily Express,” said Street Vet, one of the charities taking part.

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