Givzie, a Bala Cynwyd-based startup, wants to redefine the gift buying process by offering an alternative that combines wish lists and crowdfunding, writes Victor Fiorillo for the Philadelphia Magazine.

Amanda Olsen, the founder of the company, got the idea from all the “cheap plastic crap” her sons received and gifted at birthday parties and at Christmas.

So instead of getting a bunch of presents that will usually be forgotten immediately, Olsen thought of providing an option of getting one desired but more expensive item.

For example, a mother of a girl who wanted a $400 Lego Harry Potter Hogwarts Castle for her birthday could launch a Givzie campaign for the set.

She would then send the link for the campaign out with the invitations, saying that guests are invited to “contribute to the big gift on Givzie in lieu of an individual gift.”

A person contributing $20 would also cover the 8.9% administrative fee and 30 cents on each transaction, or an additional $2.08.

“That’s less than what you’d spend at Target, when you consider taxes, a gift bag, and your time,” said Olsen. “There’s a huge convenience factor here. You just click and go.”

Read more about Givzie at the Philadelphia Magazine by clicking here.

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