Join the overqualified.
Bypass the difficult qualifying standards of races like the Boston Marathon by running for a charity and raising funds. Apply for a charity team, fundraise, and run for a cause.
Everything you need to know before you apply is below.
What is a charity bib?
A charity bib is a guaranteed entry into the Boston Marathon through one of our official nonprofit partners. In exchange, you commit to raising funds for that cause.
Do I need a qualifying time?
No. A charity bib is a separate path from the time-qualified entry. You earn your spot through fundraising, not a qualifying race time.
How do I apply?
Pick a charity from the list, then complete the application: tell us about yourself, your running experience, and your fundraising commitment. Each charity reviews applications independently.
Can I apply to more than one charity?
Yes. You may apply to as many nonprofits as you would like. Most runners apply to several, and we recommend applying to multiple charities to have the best chance of being selected. Each charity reviews applicants independently, so applying widely gives you the best chance of landing a spot.
Do you accept international runners onto charity teams?
Yes! International runners must commit to raising $15,000 USD or more, depending on the charity. To protect our nonprofit partners from having to pursue unpaid commitments overseas, international runners must pay their full fundraising commitment via wire transfer upon acceptance to a team. Race registration is permitted only after the full payment has been received.
Do you accept registered runners onto charity teams?
Yes! Runners who have already secured their own entry to the Boston Marathon are welcome to join a charity team at a lower fundraising commitment than runners receiving a charity bib. The required minimum varies by charity.
What is the $100 personal donation?
If you’re selected for a charity team, you’ll be required to make a $100 donation to your own GivenGain fundraising page during onboarding. This kicks off your campaign, demonstrates your personal commitment to the cause, and gives future donors an example to follow.
What is GivenGain?
GivenGain is the official fundraising platform and partner of the Boston Marathon. During onboarding, you’ll create your personal fundraising page and receive a shareable link so friends, family, and colleagues can support your cause.
What happens after I apply?
The charity will review your application. If you’re offered a spot, you’ll have 48 hours to accept and complete a short onboarding process, including setting up your fundraising page and agreeing to the terms of your offer. Once you’ve completed onboarding, we’ll be in touch with training guidance, fundraising resources, and opportunities to connect with your teammates.
Do I have to pay a race entry fee if I receive a spot on a charity team?
Yes. You are responsible for the $390 race entry fee, which is separate from your fundraising commitment. Payment is due when you register for the Boston Marathon in January and is made directly to the Boston Athletic Association through its official registration process. Your charity does not cover this fee. We’ll guide you through the registration process when the time comes, but you are responsible for completing your registration and paying the fee by the required deadline. Failure to do so will result in losing your spot on the team.
What if I am selected for a charity, accept a spot, but am unable to run?
All prepaid donations and funds raised are nonrefundable, including if you become injured, are unable to participate for any reason, or the event is canceled. We understand how disappointing it can be when an injury or unexpected circumstances prevent you from running. However, accepting a charity entry means making a commitment to a nonprofit that relies on your support to carry out its mission. The Boston Marathon does not allow entries to be deferred to a future year. Once you register in January, your entry cannot be transferred to another runner, and you remain responsible for fulfilling your entire fundraising commitment by the deadline, even if you cannot participate. If you fall short, the credit card on file may be charged for the remaining balance.
What if I do not meet my fundraising obligation?
Each charity bib represents a valuable fundraising opportunity for a nonprofit. Falling short can affect the organization’s ability to fund its programs and serve its community. Please apply for and accept a charity entry only if you are prepared to fulfill the fundraising commitment you make. Runners who do not meet their fundraising commitment will be contacted to discuss their situation. If a runner defaults on their commitment, the credit card on file will be charged for the remaining balance. Read the terms and conditions in both the charity application and your onboarding offer carefully. You are responsible for meeting all fundraising milestones, minimums, and deadlines you agree to.