SAN JOSÉ, Calif. — San José State Athletics announced today a groundbreaking partnership with Givzey | Version2.ai, becoming one of the first athletic departments in the nation to fully leverage Autonomous AI-driven fundraising technology to enhance donor engagement and maximize annual giving.
Through this collaboration, Spartans Athletics will deploy a custom AI fundraiser named Sami, an intelligent Virtual Engagement Officer designed to deliver personalized information to donors and prospective supporters. Powered by Givzey’s Version2.ai, the AI-powered Virtual Engagement Officer will answer questions, share impact stories, recommend giving opportunities, and guide supporters through the donation process with unprecedented speed and accuracy.
“As college athletics enters a new era shaped by evolving revenue-sharing models, innovation isn’t optional, it’s essential,” said Jeff Konya, SJSU Director of Athletics. “Our partnership with Givzey | Version2.ai positions us at the forefront of national fundraising strategy."
The initiative is expected to significantly increase fundraising capacity by enabling the department to scale personalized outreach, deepen donor relationships, and provide one-to-one personalized access to information. The AI Virtual Engagement Officer will support everything from annual fund contributions to sport-specific giving, helping Spartans Athletics meet the financial demands of modern college athletics.
“San José State is setting a new standard for how athletic departments can use AI to strengthen donor engagement,” said Emily Groccia, VP, Customer Success, Givzey | Version2.ai. “This partnership showcases what’s possible when technology and mission-driven innovation come together.”
With this forward-looking approach, San José State Athletics continues to invest in solutions that ensure long-term competitiveness, elevate the student-athlete experience, and empower the Spartan community to support success in the new landscape of collegiate athletics.
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