What are default values?
Default values allow you to automatically populate certain fields on a DIY registration form.
When a default value is set, the supporter will see that value already selected or filled in when they register.
This helps to reduce friction during sign up, keep data consistent, and ensure fundraisers are attributed correctly without supporters needing to make extra selections.
Which default values can be set?
You can set default values for the following fields on DIY forms:
Event type
Event name
Fundraising target
Each default value is optional and can be used independently or together.
When should default values be used?
Default values work well for themed or product specific DIY campaigns, where every supporter is taking part in the same activity or campaign.
For example, a charity running a “run your own way” DIY campaign called Strides in September may want:
Event type set to Personal running / marathons
(or by using the ''Other'' event type and updating the supporter facing label to Strides in September)Event name set to Strides in September
Fundraising target set to a specific amount
With default values in place, supporters don’t need to select Personal running / marathons or Strides in September from a dropdown during registration. This creates a smoother sign up experience and reduces unnecessary steps.
This is particularly helpful when only one event type is relevant to the campaign.
Important note:
If you’re running a structured challenge where supporters sign up to one set event - for example “Walk 100km in May” and you want their JustGiving pages to link to a specific JustGiving Event ID or Campaign, please use the Virtual Event campaign type instead.
DIY Campaigns do not support preset JustGiving Event IDs or direct linking to a JustGiving Campaign, as they’re intentionally built for supporters doing their own individual activities.
When should default values not be used?
The Default Event Type value is not recommended for evergreen DIY campaigns where supporters may be fundraising in different ways.
For example
An evergreen DIY campaign might include supporters running bake sales, skydives, walks, runs or their own organised events.
In this scenario, setting a default event type would not make sense, as supporters should be free to choose the option that best reflects their activity.
For these campaigns, it’s usually best to leave default event type value blank so supporters can make their own selections.
How to set default values on a DIY form
Go to Campaigns and open your DIY campaign
Navigate to section 2, titled Registrations
Scroll to the relevant field (Event type, Event name or Fundraising target)
Under Default value, select or enter the value you’d like to apply
Save your changes
Once saved, the default value will be applied to the registration form for new supporters.