The File Uploader allows you to import and update data quickly, accurately, and in a standardised format. Whether you are setting up Donorfy for the first time, adding new records, or updating existing ones, the File Uploader provides an efficient, non-technical way to manage data across multiple areas of the system.
🤓Tip:
If you are not confident working with large datasets, consider onboarding support or assistance from a Donorfy Certified Partner.
What the File Uploader Does
The File Uploader enables users to import new data and update existing data using a structured Excel template. It supports:
Populating your Donorfy database for the first time.
Adding constituents or Timeline entries.
Importing transactions, Gift Aid Declarations, Activities, and more.
Updating existing fields across several areas of Donorfy.
No technical expertise is required—team members who understand your data can manage uploads with ease.
Data Uploads
You can import data using a Microsoft Excel workbook template, downloadable from the File Uploader under Data Management.
📌 Note: Always click Update Template before downloading to ensure your template reflects the latest Constituent Types, Tags, and Purposes stored in your Donorfy.
Data Types You Can Import
The File Uploader can populate these areas:
Constituents (all constituent types).
Transactions (including optional creation of new constituents).
Recurring Payment Instructions (RPIs).
Activities.
Gift Aid Declarations (including new constituents).
Connections.
Communication Channels and Preferences.
Soft Credits.
Opportunities (including new constituents).
Data Updaters
In addition to creating new records, the File Uploader can update existing:
Tags.
RPIs (Upgrades).
Activities.
Transactions.
Constituents.
Address details.
Who Has Access
All user profiles can access the File Uploader.
However, Admins can restrict Standard User access through the User Settings page.
Where to Access the File Uploader
You can access the tool in two areas:
Data Management, File Uploader.
Home, My Uploads.
Key Differences
File Uploader: Shows all data uploads performed in your organisation.
My Uploads: Shows only the uploads that you have completed.
Both locations allow you to upload new files, download results, or undo an upload if required.
Within either section, you will find your main preparation tool, the Data Preparation Template.
📌 Note: Additional update templates are available in relevant Knowledge Base articles and may include warnings or special instructions.
What Can Be Uploaded
The File Uploader works with Excel files only (.xls or .xlsx).
CSV files are not supported.
Using the Data Preparation Template
Click Update Template to ensure it contains your current Tags, Purposes, and Constituent Types.
Download the template.
Open the workbook to view the tabbed sections at the bottom.
Complete only the sections relevant to your upload.
Hover over column headers to view instructions for required data.
📌 Note: The template is not fully comprehensive. You may need to prepare additional uploads in separate passes to complete your data import.
Data Quality Best Practices
Avoid rushing, accurate data entry reduces upload errors.
Plan which files need to be uploaded and in which order.
Ensure each row includes a way to match data to a constituent (e.g. email address, phone number, or legacy database key).