CAFOD’s move to Wonderful’s open banking technology - an OBL Case Study

Traditionally, donations face processing fees that reduce their impact. That’s why Wonderful, an open banking-powered platform, is changing the landscape for charities by offering a donation solution free from transaction fees. In a positive step towards optimising their fundraising, CAFOD, a leading international aid charity, has adopted Wonderful’s service, paving the way for a new era in cost-efficient charitable giving.

We are delighted and honoured to be featured in a recent case study, researched and published by Open Banking Limited.

The challenge: costly transactions reduce the impact of donations

Fundraising today means relying increasingly on electronic transactions. But many charities, big and small, face fees associated with credit card transactions and third-party payment processors - along with those charged by fundraising platforms too. Although these fees may appear small per donation, they quickly add up, limiting the funds that reach the heart of a charity’s mission. For charities like CAFOD, these extra costs present an ongoing challenge in maximising the value of every donation received.

CAFOD, with its international outreach, benefits greatly from an approach that lets donors know their support reaches its full potential. This led them to explore Wonderful’s platform, which leverages open banking technology to completely remove these fees. With Wonderful, donations go directly from the donor’s bank account to the charity, removing the need for costly intermediaries and ensuring that donations reach the cause without deductions.

How Wonderful works: transforming donations with open banking technology

The concept behind Wonderful is simple yet impactful: by harnessing open banking, Wonderful allows for secure, direct transactions that connect donors and charities without the involvement of card networks or other intermediaries. Donations made through Wonderful are instant, transparent, and 100% fee-free. This transparency reassures donors that their support goes exactly where it’s intended, while charities benefit from the ease and reliability of Wonderful’s donation process.

For CAFOD, the switch to Wonderful means their fundraisers and donors can contribute confidently, knowing that every pound raised directly benefits their mission. Wonderful’s open banking technology aligns perfectly with CAFOD’s commitment to operational transparency and financial efficiency, optimising each donation.

The endorsement of open banking by Open Banking Limited

Wonderful’s approach is not only innovative but also highlighted by OBL's recent case study. OBL is the body responsible for delivering open banking in the UK. OBL promotes secure and streamlined payment services, which Wonderful embodies through its donation platform and open banking payments for UK small businesses. By applying open banking standards, Wonderful demonstrates that modern technology can support charitable giving in secure, efficient, and impactful ways.

For CAFOD, using Wonderful reinforces the importance of embracing technology that not only enhances financial efficiency but also supports the organisation’s larger mission. OBL’s acknowledgment of Wonderful’s charity services highlights the broader movement toward digital solutions that create value and impact beyond traditional fundraising methods.

Empowering fundraisers and donors to make a real difference

Wonderful’s open banking model not only benefits charities like CAFOD but also empowers the many fundraisers who support UK registered charities. Whether they’re running, swimming, baking, or organising events, fundraisers pour dedication into raising money for the causes they care about. Wonderful ensures their efforts are maximised, as every pound raised reaches its intended destination without the loss of transaction fees. This allows fundraisers to know that their hard work is making the most significant impact possible.

Knowing that 100% of their donations will benefit their chosen charity can be incredibly motivating for fundraisers and donors alike. Wonderful’s solution builds a stronger connection between donors, fundraisers, and the causes they care about, removing financial barriers and promoting a donation experience that feels both impactful and meaningful.

Looking to the future: a sustainable, fee-free model for charitable giving

CAFOD’s use of Wonderful represents a growing trend among charities to seek efficient, cost-effective digital solutions. As more charities adopt open banking payment services, Wonderful’s model offers a promising glimpse into the future of donation processing. Imagine a future where all charities, regardless of size, can accept donations securely, transparently, and without any fees. Wonderful is bringing us closer to this reality, providing charities with a viable solution to enhance their digital fundraising strategies.

The long-term impact of Wonderful’s model can be profound. By reducing reliance on traditional transaction methods and creating a streamlined, fee-free approach, Wonderful encourages charities to rethink how they handle donations. This approach not only supports financial sustainability but also fosters a closer connection with donors who value transparency and efficiency.

Join the movement: experience the Wonderful way to give

At Wonderful, we believe every donation should reach its full potential, free from transaction fees. We invite charities, fundraisers, and donors to explore our platform and experience the benefits of open banking technology. Wonderful’s model is here to revolutionise the future of charitable giving, offering an approach that’s transparent, impactful, and truly built for the needs of charities and their supporters.

By choosing Wonderful, you’re choosing a solution that places impact at the forefront, enabling charities to focus on what truly matters—fulfilling their mission and expanding their reach. Let’s work together to make every donation count.