KSU Athletics turns used tech into fundraising through Hoot It Forward

Kennesaw State University Athletics and Phobio launched Hoot It Forward, a device buyback and donation program that lets businesses, alumni, fans and supporters convert used technology into direct funding for student-athletes. The inaugural effort sets a $1 million fundraising goal and includes in-person donation opportunities at select KSU home games this fall.

Why it matters: - Kennesaw State University Athletics is adding a new fundraising channel that does not depend on cash gifts. - The program gives supporters a way to turn old devices into direct support for student-athletes. - KSU Athletics says the added resources can help the department stay competitive and improve recruiting and retention.

What happened: - Phobio and KSU Athletics launched Hoot It Forward on Sept. 2, 2026. - The inaugural program has a $1 million fundraising goal. - Businesses, alumni, fans and supporters can contribute by trading in or donating used technology. - The program covers phones, tablets, laptops and smartwatches.

The details: - Participants start a buyback or trade-in transaction for used devices. - Phobio provides prepaid shipping materials so devices can be sent at no cost. - Business buyback proceeds and donated devices go directly to KSU Athletics. - Individuals and organizations receive a tax-deductible receipt for the full value of the device contribution. - Phobio is R2v3 certified. - Devices are securely erased to NIST 800-88 and HMG Infosec standards before processing. - KSU Athletics said fans can also start the donation process in person at the Liberty game on Oct. 22 and at the Homecoming game on Nov. 7. - KSU also pointed fans to KSUOwls.com/tickets for all six home football games.

Between the lines: - The program reflects a broader shift in fundraising toward asset-based giving instead of only direct monetary donations. - The device-recovery model also ties fundraising to Phobio’s circular-economy business. - KSU’s home-game rollout suggests the school wants to use game-day traffic to drive participation.

What's next: - Businesses can donate online now. - Fans can begin donating devices through the program website or at select home games this fall. - KSU Athletics will likely use the campaign to build momentum around the $1 million goal. - Phobio said the company wants to expand meaningful support for KSU through device value recovery.

The bottom line: - Hoot It Forward turns unused technology into a recurring fundraising tool for KSU Athletics while giving donors a simple way to help student-athletes.