Starbucks and Foursquare Team Up for (RED) AIDS Fundraiser

Every year, thousands of people in sub-Saharan Africa are born with HIV—or contract it before their fifth birthday. While medical advances have transformed HIV from a death sentence into a manageable chronic condition in many parts of the world, millions in Africa still lack access to treatment. The challenge isn’t just medical; it’s financial and organizational. That’s where grassroots fundraising through everyday actions can make a real difference.

(RED) has raised $190 million for the Global Fund to fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria—$25,000 of which will come from a simple act: checking in at Starbucks.

What Is (RED)?

(RED) is a nonprofit organization cofounded in 2006 by Bono and Bobby Shriver. Unlike the Chinese Red Cross, (RED) partners exclusively with private companies to generate funds for the Global Fund, with 100% of that money going directly to HIV/AIDS programs in Africa—particularly those focused on eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV. Their ultimate goal: to help create the first AIDS-free generation by 2015 (the original campaign target year).

How Starbucks and Foursquare Are Contributing

From June 1 to June 10, 2012, Foursquare users in the United States and Canada can earn more than just virtual badges. Each time they check in at a Starbucks location, Starbucks will donate $1 to (RED)—up to $25,000. This partnership builds on Starbucks’ long-standing support: the company had already donated $10 million to (RED) by 2008, and $1000 million was a likely typo for $10 million in the source.

Other Corporate Partners in the (RED) Campaign

(RED) has attracted major global brands to its cause. Apple, Dell, and Nike are among the corporations that have integrated (RED) into their product lines, donating portions of sales to the Global Fund. These partnerships have been crucial in helping (RED) accumulate its $190 million total. Social media has also played a pivotal role: (RED) became the first nonprofit to surpass one million followers thanks to campaigns on Facebook and Twitter.

Beyond Check-Ins: (RED) RUSH Games

Kicking off June 1, (RED) also launched a global video game initiative called (RED) RUSH Games. Players compete against friends and celebrities in challenges to win prizes and recognition—all while raising funds and awareness for HIV/AIDS programs. The initiative adds a playful yet purposeful digital layer to the broader (RED) effort.

Foursquare’s Role and Statement

This is Foursquare’s first partnership with a nonprofit of this scale. Founder Dennis Crowley emphasized the company’s enthusiasm for teaming up with (RED) to fight AIDS. By leveraging its platform’s check-in culture, Foursquare aims to turn a routine user action into meaningful social impact and encourage more public attention on global health issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is (RED) and what does it do?

(RED) is a nonprofit founded in 2006 that partners with companies like Apple and Starbucks to raise funds for the Global Fund. 100% of (RED)-specific donations go to HIV/AIDS programs in Africa, especially those preventing mother-to-child HIV transmission and working toward an AIDS-free generation.

How much money has (RED) raised so far?

(RED) has raised a total of $190 million for the Global Fund through partnerships with corporations and campaigns. Starbucks alone had previously donated $10 million by 2008.

How does the Starbucks-Foursquare check-in campaign work?

From June 1 to June 10, 2012, every Foursquare check-in at a Starbucks in the U.S. or Canada will result in a $1 donation to (RED) from Starbucks, with a campaign goal of $25,000.

What other companies support (RED)?

Major brands such as Apple, Dell, and Nike support (RED) by donating a portion of sales from special (RED)-branded products to the Global Fund.

What is (RED) RUSH Games?

Launched on June 1, (RED) RUSH Games is a global video game competition where players compete with friends and celebrities for rewards, while generating funds and awareness for HIV/AIDS initiatives.

Why is Foursquare involved in this campaign?

Foursquare participated to use its check-in platform for social good. Founder Dennis Crowley stated the company was proud to work with (RED) to raise awareness and funds for HIV/AIDS efforts.