What types of organization can benefit from the program?
FundingFactory is open to all nonprofit organizations, including schools, child care centers, libraries, sports teams, and scout troops! For-profit businesses can participate in support of the school or nonprofit of their choice. Is there a time limit to your program?
No, there is no expiration or deadline associated with FundingFactory’s program. But, if zero shipments have been received within a 12-month period, your account will be retired. Retired accounts can be reinstated at any time by calling customer service at 1.888.883.8237. What materials do you provide to help get our program up and running?
Once registered, new participants will receive a Jump Start Kit containing all the materials you need to get started. You’re also granted immediate online account access where you’ll find extensive promotional resources, including posters, downloadable flyers, displays, letter templates, and other materials to kick off your new fundraising-thru-recycling program. Is there a risk associated with handling printer cartridges?
Printer cartridges are not considered toxic and do not pose a threat. The ink in them is no more harmful than the ink in a ballpoint pen. The FundingFactory coordinator of our organization recently left, now I’m in charge, what do I do?
There are two options:
- If you know your organization’s log-in information, go to FundingFactory.com to update your personal contact information under Account Info.
- If you do not know your organization’s log-in information, simply call our helpful customer service reps at 1.888.883.8237
. What kind of cartridges qualify for points?
For a complete up-to-date list of qualifying cartridges, check out Qualifying Cartridge List. Why don’t you assign points to all cartridges?
Unfortunately, not all cartridges can be recycled through FundingFactory. Those include ink tanks, ribbon cartridges, and previously remanufactured cartridges. We are only able to award points to cartridges that can be sold to remanufacturers. I have cartridges that are not on your list. What should I do with them?
Cartridges that are not on the Qualifying Cartridge List are not eligible for points. Contact your local waste or recycling management department to learn how to. Why don’t you accept ribbon cartridges?
Ribbon cartridges cannot be refurbished and therefore do not qualify for points. We have unopened cartridges but we do not have a printer that can use them. Can we recycle them and earn points?
Yes, you will receive the same point value as an empty one. Do I need to send any cell phone accessories with my cell phones?
Please do not send chargers, cases, or headsets. They cannot be recycled through FundingFactory. Do all old cell phones qualify for recycling?
No, not all cell phones qualify. Most major brand of cell phones in use currently qualifying for recycling. Brands include:
- Audiovox
- Ericsson
- Kyocera
- Motorola
- Nokia
Check out our Qualifying Cell Phone List for the most up-to-date pricing. What items does FundingFactory accept for recycling?
FundingFactory accepts the following items:
- Inkjet cartridges
- Laser cartridges
- Cell phones
- Digital cameras
- GPS devices
- iPods/MP3 players
- Laptops
Can I use my own boxes for shipping cartridges, cell phones, small electronics, and laptops?
Yes! In fact, we encourage reuse and recycling of resources. But if you don’t have boxes… no worries! FundingFactory provides all the materials needed to send shipments absolutely FREE of charge, i.e., pre-paid UPS labels and different sized shipping boxes. Shipping materials can be ordered as you need them through the web site or by calling 1.888.883.8237. Do you have guidelines for packing my items for shipping?
Yes, please follow FundingFactory’s 20/20 Rule. Send either 20 items of mixed qualifying* product (i.e., 10 laser cartridges + 5 inkjets cartridges + 3 cell phones + 2 iPods = 20 items). OR send 20 lbs. of mixed qualifying* items. How do I get UPS to pick up my items?
FundingFactory boxes can be shipped via UPS by simply leaving them at a regular UPS pick-up location. If you do not have a regular UPS pick-up at your location, drop the boxes off at any authorized UPS shipping location. DO NOT call UPS for pick up. When called to pick up packages, UPS will charge a mandatory fee that cannot be waived or reimbursed by FundingFactory. Call 1.800.742.5877 or visit ups.com for the drop-off locations nearest you. Can I use a carrier other than UPS to ship my items?
You can, but if you wish to do this, you will be responsible for those shipping charges. FundingFactory will not be responsible for reimbursement. FundingFactory only covers the cost of shipping with the pre-paid UPS labels provided by FundingFactory. Do I need to fill in any paperwork in order to ship my items?
No, there is never any paperwork involved when shipping to FundingFactory. The pre-paid shipping labels provided to you already contain all of your organization’s account information. I don’t know the ID number of the organization I want to support. What should I do?
Simply leave the organization ID field blank on the registration form. You will be sent a list of participating organizations within your area via email. Select a participant from that list and enter the ID number of the organization that you wish to support next time you log in. Can I designate more than one school or organization?
Currently, it is not possible to support more than one organization, but you can change your beneficiary at any time by calling a customer service rep at 1.888.883.8237. How can I see the points that I have earned for my supported organization?
How can I see the points that I have earned for my supported organization? Who pays the shipping charges to send my cartridges?
All shipping charges are paid for by FundingFactory. Since FundingFactory already applies a pre-paid UPS label on boxes for your convenience, no further postage is necessary. Leave it for your UPS driver or take it to any UPS drop-off location for FREE. Do all cartridges qualify for points?
Unfortunately, not all cartridges can be recycled through FundingFactory. These include ink tanks, ribbon cartridges, and previously remanufactured cartridges. We are only able to award points to those cartridges that can be sold to remanufacturers. Please check our Qualifying Cartridge List for the most up-to-date pricing. I have a large quantity of laser cartridges to send. Are there other shipping options?
If you have more than 75 laser cartridges to return, please call a customer service rep at 1.888.883.8237 to make arrangements. We can schedule a pick up using a freight carrier, such as Yellow Freight. Does a business have to register in order to support my organization?
Yes. A Business Supporter can simply drop their cartridges off at your location, or if they plan to provide ongoing support, encourage them to register at FundingFactory.com to receive free shipping boxes delivered right to their door. All points will be credited to your account and the business can track the support they provide to your organization online. How does a business officially “adopt” our organization?
When a business registers online, they must have your ID number in order to link to your account. If they don’t know the ID number, they can call a customer service rep at 1.888.883.8237 to get it. Do Business Supporters need to pay a fee to participate?
No, there are no fees for businesses to participate in the Business Support program. Registration, shipping boxes, and more are all available FREE of charge to all supporters. How are the products in your catalog priced?
The cost of products in our catalog is calculated through the following equation unless the product is shipped by freight, additional shipping charges may apply. Please contact the Product Order Specialist for any questions: - Dollar amount x 3 = total FundingFactory points required to purchase product.
All shipping and handling charges are included in the point values in the online Rewards Catalog. - GameTime products: Dollar amount x 2.5 = total points required to purchase product.
Can I order directly from FundingFactory Partners?
When using your points, all orders must be placed through FundingFactory. Any order placed directly with a supplier will not be eligible to be paid for with points. FundingFactory points can be redeemed through the online catalog, by contacting a customer service rep by phone at 1.888.883.8237 or by email at info@fundingfactory.com. What if I can not find what I am looking for in the Rewards Catalog?
If you have searched under the products category and were unable to find it, enter the products name in the "search item" field near the top of the page and search. Another option would be to check the vendors website. If you find a preferred product at the vendors site, simply write down the part number and contact FundingFactory when you are ready to order. If you have any questions feel free to contact a FundingFactory representative at info@fundingfactory.com or toll free at 1-888-883-8237. We will be happy to search for a product and let you know how many points you will need. Can I change my mind after I have placed an order?
Once you process the order you cannot cancel it online. Please call FundingFactory immediately at 1-888-883-8237. All returns must be processed by a FundingFactory representative within 14 days of delivery. Why do I need a $25 minimum order per vendor?
Due to administrative processes, it is cost prohibitive to process orders under $25.00. What if I receive a damaged product?
Notify FundingFactory immediately if you receive a damaged or defective product. Returns of damaged items must be processed by a FundingFactory representative within 14 days of delivery. Original packaging is required to set up a return for credit or replacement. What are points?
When cartridges and cell phones are posted to your account, FundingFactory awards points as a virtual currency. Those points can be redeemed in the online Rewards Catalog for technology, recreation, or playground equipment, or the points can be converted to dollars and a check can be sent to your organization. Each point is equal to $.40. Why do you offer points?
FundingFactory believes that points are much easier for organizations to manage. There are no organizational loopholes to jump through making it easier for you to redeem points for products.
Also, many participants like the fact that they do not have to worry about handling or accounting for cash from their fundraising efforts. However, FundingFactory understands that organizations have needs outside of the products offered in the Rewards Catalog and does offer a $.40-per-point conversion rate.
How are points converted to cash?
Point values are based on the following conversion: 1 point = $.40, 2.5 points = $1. To convert points to cash and receive a check, visit Manage My Account and follow the steps to Get a Check with Cash Rewards. Do points expire?
No, points never expire. Save or splurge – it is up to you! What is the advantage of opting-in to receive cash rewards?
When you opt-in to receive cash rewards, your recycling points are converted to cash automatically. Call our customer service reps at 1.888.883.8237 to learn more. How do I register?
You can register your organization here. Is there a fee to register?
NEVER! There is never a fee to register and there is never a fee to participate in FundingFactory. A FREE Jump Start Kit will be sent to you after completing the registration process and you will have immediate, unlimited access to your online account. Other organizations in my area are already participating. Should I sign up?
Yes! More than 75% of the cartridges used this year will be thrown away when they are empty - collect your share for great rewards! Cartridges can be collected from outside of your community and even outside of your state. Please see the Business Support to learn how to partner with local and national businesses. Our organization is already recycling cartridges. Why should we switch to FundingFactory?
FundingFactory is the largest and most loved fundraising-thru-recycling program in the U.S. Since 1997, FundingFactory has partnered with more than 50,000 schools and nonprofit organizations, empowering them to earn nearly $26 million in cash and rewards while preventing more than 21 million pounds of waste from being landfilled. It’s simple to use, includes fun, dedicated fundraising coaches, and is 100% FREE! I lost my password, what should I do?
Call us toll-free at 1.888.883.8237 or email info@fundingfactory.com and we will send the information to the email address used when registering. Who is FundingFactory? How long has it been in the recycling business? How many organizations recycle with FundingFactory? Is it EPA compliant?
FundingFactory is the largest fundraising-thru-recycling program in the United States. Since 1997, over 50,000 schools and nonprofit organizations have earned more than 26 million by recycling inkjet and laser cartridges, cell phones, and other small electronics. FundingFactory and its parent company Environmental Reclamation Services, Inc., boasts ISO 14001-2004 environmental certification and is committed to Zero Landfill Initiative and EPA Waste Wise. When will my account transfer from GRF to FundingFactory?
Your account will become active with FundingFactory on August 17th at midnight. Note: This date subject to change. Do I need to enroll my organization in FundingFactory?
No, any accounts you already hold with GRF will automatically be transferred to FundingFactory Will my GRF account number and password stay the same?
Yes and no. You will retain your account number and password as login credentials for fundingfactory.com. However, you will receive a new account number that will identify your account on shipping labels. When contacting FundingFactory customer service, your account information can be accessed with something as simple as your zip code. Do I need to order new supplies (i.e. prepaid UPS shipping labels, shipping boxes, collection bins)? Where/how do I order new supplies?
Effective Aug. 17, 2011, you will need to order new shipping labels to ensure your boxes are shipped to the FundingFactory facility. You may use any old boxes you have, as long as they have new UPS shipping labels on them. Do I need to throw out old supplies?
Only throw out old labels. You can use any old boxes, collection displays, and promotional materials you do not want to go to waste. In fact, beginning Aug. 17, 2011, you can earn an extra $2 per shipment when you use your own boxes. What will happen to Re-Source Rewards Points I earned at GRF?
You will be able to redeem your Re-Source Rewards Points with GRF until Sept. 16, 2011. Groups earning enough points to claim a prize will receive an email from GRF. Will UPS re-route shipments from GRF to FundingFactory?
The best way to get credit for your recycled materials in an efficient manner is to throw away any GRF labels you currently have and to use new FundingFactory labels. Any collections shipped to GRF will be held at the GRF facility until a full pallet of boxes is ready to be shipped to FundingFactory, which will delay processing your shipment. Will I receive materials about FundingFactory's recycling program? When?
You will receive a Jump Start Kit from FundingFactory that will include a shipping box, UPS shipping labels, and a program guide detailing the recycling program the week of August 17, 2011. Will my GRF account balance transfer to FundingFactory?
When your account transfers from GRF to FundingFactory, any remaining balance on your account will be issued to you from GRF in the form of a check in September 2011. All shipments received by FundingFactory after August 17 will be credited to your new FundingFactory account. How long does it take FundingFactory to inspect a shipment?
10-14 business days. How will FundingFactory reward my organization for recycling?
FundingFactory offers year-round contests, giveaways, and opportunities to earn bonuses. FundingFactory provides boxes, shipping labels, promotional materials, and exceptional customer service. When will FundingFactory mail a check for my shipment?
With FundingFactory, you can choose to have a check mailed to you, or to use your recycling points to purchase items from an online rewards catalog featuring vendors such as CDW. What dollar amount of recyclables is required to generate a check?
You can request to receive a check from FundingFactory once you have a balance of $25. Will item-by-item detail of my shipment be available online?
Yes, you can access your shipment details once they have processed by logging in to your account at FundingFactory.com Are FundingFactory prices comparable to GRF prices? How often do these prices change? Where are prices posted?
FundingFactory offers competitive pricing for your recycled items. Prices are subject to change, and the current pricing is always posted on FundingFactory.com under "Qualifying Lists" What electronic items does FundingFactory accept?
FundingFactory accepts the same electronic items as GRF: inkjet and laser printer cartridges, cell phones, smart phones, iPods and other mp3 players, GPS devices, digital cameras, and laptops. What does Funding Factory do with items that fail inspection?
FundingFactory is part of Environmental Reclamation Services, Inc. ERS prides itself on its ability to reuse and recycle. Nearly 60% of the material sent in is remanufactured by Clover Technologies (ERS's parent company) or by other companies that remanufacture cartridges and cell phones for reuse (all measurements by weight). Of the remainder, about 31% is recycled in some way. Less than 3/4 of one percent is landfilled. Can an individual enroll in FundingFactory's recycling program?
FundingFactory is exclusively for schools and non-profit organizations. Individuals can register as a business supporter to support a school or non-profit. Who will handle my account at FundingFactory? Who do I contact if I have questions?
FundingFactory's customer service team of Leslie, Patty, Holly, Lori, Amanda or Stephanie can be reached by calling 1.888.883.8237 or emailing info@fundingfactory.com Where can I go for more information?
Visit FundingFactory.com, call 1.888.883.8237 or email info@fundingfactory.com |