If you’re currently using Themes and want to switch to the Portal Templates design and user experience (new as of February 2026), this guide will walk you through how to migrate so you can take advantage of a simpler setup, faster updates, and an easier long-term experience.
If you plan to use REACH as your website, you have two options: Portal Templates and Themes. Both options allow you to build and manage your public-facing site directly in REACH. Portal Templates (recommended) are the easiest option and require no custom coding, while Themes are a more advanced option designed for teams who want full design control and have development resources available.
Tip: If you already have an existing website you want to continue using, Embeds may be something to consider. Embeds lets you keep your current site (WordPress, Webflow, Squarespace, etc.) and add REACH features, like sponsorships, campaigns, projects, or places, directly onto your pages using embed code.
What to Expect
Migrating from Themes to Portal Templates is intentional and low-risk. During the process:
- Your existing Theme stays live until you choose to switch
- Portal Templates in a background process
- You control when Portal Templates go live
- No content is deleted during the process
Step-by-Step Migration Process
Step 1: Request Portal Templates Access
Email the REACH team and request that Portal Templates be enabled for your account.
Once enabled, you’ll see Portal Templates listed under the Portal Content area and you’ll be able to begin setting up Portal Templates without affecting your live site.
Step 2: Activate Portal Templates
Go to Portal Content > Portal Templates and click Activate Portal Templates.
This is a one-time step that adds the default templates to your account so you can begin reviewing and editing them in the Staging environment.
Step 3: Customize Your Portal Templates
Your Theme will remain active while you work.
Tip: Watch our Setting up your REACH Portal: Portal Branding and our Setting up your REACH Portal: Portal Templates videos for a quick walkthrough.
Follow these guides as you customize your Portal Templates:
- Portal Branding (fonts and colors)
- Portal Templates Overview (editing instructions and templates list)
Recommended order for customization:
- Customize your core site templates first:
- Configure your navigation menus under Settings > Menus based on the features you’re using
- For example, if you aren’t using Campaigns, remove Campaigns from your main menu
- Click through the remaining portal templates and make additional edits as needed. Remember, during or after editing each one, you can click Preview or Actions > View.
- If you click Actions > Publish to Live Site, this will publish the individual template to your live website but your Theme will remain active until you complete Step 6.
Step 4: Review and Prepare for Launch
Before publishing your Portal Templates, take time to preview and test everything in staging.
Recommended checks:
- Preview your updates on the staging site by clicking View Staging Site, or use Preview Changes within individual portal templates
- Test links and site navigation
- Review sponsorship and payment flows
Take your time as there’s no automatic switch.
Step 5: Publish Portal Templates
When you’re ready to go live, first publish your Portal Templates by clicking Actions > Publish Staging to Live Site in the top right.
This publishes your Portal Templates, but your Theme will remain active until you complete the final step 6.
Step 6: Deactivate Your Theme
Once you’re confident Portal Templates are ready, deactivate your Theme:
- Go to Settings > Themes
- Next to your active Theme, click Actions > Deactivate
At this point:
- Portal Templates become your live website
- Your Theme is no longer active
- Portal Templates are now your primary REACH site experience
What Happens to My Content?
All existing content including:
- Sponsorships
- Campaigns
- Projects
- Places
…remains in your REACH account and continues to work in Portal Templates.
No re-creation is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my website go down during migration?
No. Your Theme stays live until you deactivate it.
Can I switch back to my Theme?
Yes, if you choose to go back, you can reactivate your Theme. We recommend completing Portal Templates setup and review before deactivating your Theme.
Do I need developer support to migrate?
No. Portal Templates are designed to be customized without custom code.
How long does migration take?
Most organizations complete setup and launch within a few days or weeks, depending on customization needs and internal review.
Want help with the Portal Templates transition?
Our team can migrate your site from Themes to Portal Templates using our Retainer Service.
The estimated cost is $200 (2 hours at $100/hour).
To get started, go to Settings > Retainer Service
- Click Add Hours to add and pay for 2 hours
- In the Retainer Work tab, add Migrate from Themes to Portal Templates
- Once submitted, our team will receive your request and follow up shortly.
Ready to get started?
- To migrate from a Theme to Portal Templates, email the REACH team to request Portal Templates access.