US Rugby Foundation and Madak Partner to Launch Collegiate Alumni Jumpstart Grant Program, Empowering University Rugby Growth
San Diego, California – June 26, 2025 – The US Rugby Foundation and Madak, a leading rugby marketing agency, today announced a strategic partnership to launch the Collegiate Alumni Activation Jumpstart Program. This innovative initiative is designed to empower collegiate men's and women's rugby alumni associations across the United States by significantly enhancing their alumni engagement, fundraising capabilities, and overall program sustainability.
The grant program, developed in partnership with Madak, offers a comprehensive, four-month process designed to provide selected collegiate rugby programs with strategic guidance and a clear roadmap for growth. Recipients will undergo a multi-step journey, starting with an in-depth onboarding assessment, followed by intensive analysis and strategy sessions, culminating in recommendations and a recalibration session.
"We are very excited to partner with Madak on this vital initiative," said David Bruck, US Rugby Foundation Board Director. "Collegiate rugby is a cornerstone of our sport's development in the U.S., and activating alumni networks is crucial for long-term success. This program provides tangible tools and expertise to help university programs thrive."
The potential results for participating programs are far-reaching, aiming for impactful outcomes over the next 2-5 years. These include:
• Expanded Alumni Involvement: Building robust volunteer networks and mentorship opportunities across generations.
• Substantial Fundraising Growth: Driving financial contributions through structured giving campaigns.
• Elevated Program Visibility: Enhancing reputation and competitive opportunities within the collegiate landscape.
• Strengthened Legacy: Preserving program tradition and culture through intentional storytelling.
• Increased Recruitment: Attracting higher-quality student-athlete prospects through strategic alumni networking.
• Secured Institutional Support: Demonstrating alignment with university goals to gain greater administrative recognition.
"Our goal at Madak is to empower rugby organizations to reach their full potential, and this grant program is a direct reflection of that commitment," said Adam Lejeunekopp, CEO of Madak. "We've seen firsthand the transformative power of activated alumni networks, and we're thrilled to bring our proven methodology to more collegiate programs alongside the US Rugby Foundation."
Eligible recipients must be collegiate men's or women's rugby programs with established 501(c)(3) non-profit alumni associations, committed boards, and a readiness to invest in their long-term advancement. The grant application is open now until August 31 and available to 5 programs in 2025.
Additionally, in September 2025, Madak and the US Rugby Foundation will release a complimentary PDF resource, a "playbook" for all collegiate
alumni associations, offering valuable insights even to those not selected for the grant.
For more information about the Collegiate Alumni Activation Grant Program and to apply, please visit https://www.usrugbyfoundation.org/collegiate-alumni-grant
About US Rugby Foundation: The US Rugby Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to the growth and development of rugby in the United States. Through grants, scholarships, and initiatives, the Foundation supports youth, collegiate, and high-performance rugby programs, fostering the sport's expansion across the nation.
About Madak: Madak is a leading marketing agency specializing in elevating brands and driving growth for rugby organizations. With a focus on strategic planning, digital impact, and alumni activation, Madak partners with clubs, foundations, and governing bodies to achieve their full potential.
