With end-of-year giving right around the corner, nonprofits are feeling the pressure to fundraise. With giving at an all-time high, nonprofits are incentivized to meet financial goals and target supporters.
Now more than ever it’s important to figure out best practices for increasing donations.
5 Best Practices for Increasing Donations
1. Segment your asks
Nonprofits often fall into the trap of impersonal donation solicitation. And it’s no wonder why. It’s much easier to create a campaign for the masses than to tailor it to specific audiences. But, segmenting your campaigns based on audience is much more beneficial.
Solicit a different type of donation from your volunteers than from your board members. Or, a different donation from a repeat donor than a first-time donor. With the correct tone and style in mind for addressing each type of supporter, you’ll be much more likely to garner contributions.
2. Invest in technology
Unfortunately, not everyone is on social media or checks their email. So, to maximize contributions, nonprofits should invest in software that’s strategic. Or, software that’s creative, efficient, and and helps your charity stand out.
Use SMS text messaging or digital report software to create eye-catching campaigns.
3. Be intentional with your language
When it comes down to it, the way we ask for donations is key. The next time you’re writing copy for a campaign, consider the way you’re asking supporters to contribute. Instead of asking them to “give,” ask them “to be a donor.” Studies show that this small linguistic change can yield big results.
And, be sure to put to use “you” and “your.” Instead of “we’re making an impact,” try “you are making an impact.” This makes supporters feel important and speaks directly to them.
4. Put donors into the driver’s seat
Donors want to feel control over their contributions. That’s why it’s crucial that nonprofits give supporters choices. From donating $25 to contributing $200, donors should feel empowered knowing that there are many ways to give back.
5. Be specific about donation impact
Instead of using blanket terminology and vague indications of impact, give donors exact metrics. Let them know, incrementally, exactly what their contributions will do. Will they provide 1 gallon of clean drinking water? Will they fund a specific part of an after-school program? The more exact you can be, the better.