Payvia says that, having received a green light from the Federal Election Commission, it has inked an exclusive deal to power contributions via carrier billing for Obama for America (OFA).

The campaign revealed plans for SMS-based donations earlier this month, with Americans able to text 'GIVE' to hand over up to $10 a message and $50 a month.

Alan Sege, EVP, payvia, says: "By allowing citizens to make contributions via their mobile phone, payvia is empowering millions of Americans to make their voices heard in the electoral process."

Mobile is proving increasingly important for grassroots fundraising: in January it emerged that Obama and his Republican opponent Mitt Romney are using mobile payments start-up Square to let staffers and volunteers accept card donations.