Fundraising Partnership Agreement Template for England and Wales

A Fundraising Partnership Agreement is a legally binding contract that governs collaborative fundraising activities between charities, businesses, fundraising agencies, and event management companies in England and Wales. This document establishes clear terms for revenue sharing, operational responsibilities, data protection compliance, and brand usage while ensuring all parties meet their legal obligations under UK charity and corporate law.

When do you need this document?

You need this agreement whenever your charity partners with external organizations for fundraising activities. This includes collaborating with corporate sponsors for charity events, working with professional fundraising agencies to manage campaigns, partnering with event management companies for gala dinners or sponsored challenges, or establishing joint fundraising initiatives with other charities. The document is essential when sharing donor data, using each other's branding, or when significant financial commitments are involved. Given the regulated nature of UK fundraising, having a formal agreement protects all parties and ensures compliance with charity law requirements.

Key legal considerations

Several critical legal elements must be addressed in your fundraising partnership. Data protection is paramount - you must clearly define how personal data will be collected, processed, shared, and stored in compliance with UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018. Financial arrangements require careful structuring, including revenue sharing percentages, expense allocation, payment terms, and transparency requirements. Brand usage and intellectual property rights need explicit definition to prevent unauthorized use of logos, trademarks, or charitable status. The agreement should establish clear governance structures, reporting obligations, and dispute resolution mechanisms. Risk allocation is crucial, particularly regarding public liability, professional indemnity, and reputational risks. You must also address termination procedures, including how to handle ongoing commitments and donor relationships if the partnership ends.

Legal requirements in England and Wales

Under the Charities Act 2011, charities must ensure all fundraising activities serve their charitable purposes and maintain public benefit. Professional fundraising arrangements must comply with specific disclosure requirements, and charities must exercise proper oversight of external fundraising partners. The Charities (Protection and Social Investment) Act 2016 introduced additional protections, requiring charities to ensure fundraising is conducted in accordance with recognized standards and that vulnerable donors are protected. Corporate partners must comply with Companies Act 2006 requirements regarding corporate social responsibility and director duties. All parties must adhere to Consumer Rights Act 2015 provisions when fundraising involves the general public, including clear terms and conditions and fair treatment of donors. Online and distance fundraising activities must comply with Consumer Contracts Regulations 2013, including providing cooling-off periods where applicable. The Charity Commission provides detailed guidance on fundraising partnerships, and compliance with their recommendations is essential for maintaining charitable status and public trust.