People usually think of raising money for personal needs or goals—like paying for a mission trip or funding a ‘passion project’ like making a film—when they hear the word “crowdfunding.” But as online crowdfunding has become more common, people are getting creative with it. Now, nonprofits are getting in on the action.
While nonprofits often rely on grants from a single source or large-scale event to raise money, crowdfunding allows you to collect small donations from many sources. Statistics Canada reports that just over 24 million Canadians donate about $12.8 billion to charity each year. But thanks to the worldwide reach of the Internet, and specialized crowdsourcing websites like GoFundMe® and CanadaHelps, crowdfunding can raise incredible amounts. More than 1.7 million Canadians have used CanadaHelps to donate more than $907 million to charities, according to the organization. And in just over two weeks, about 140,000 donors from around the world gave more than $15 million through GoFundMe to help survivors of the Humboldt Broncos accident. With some helpful tips and a few nonprofit promotional items, you can get the most out of your crowdfunding campaign.
Give thanks for donations
When using nonprofit crowdfunding, it’s common to acknowledge donors on social media. To really impress them, send a thank-you gift. It shows your appreciation and makes it more likely the donor will support future fundraising efforts. Small but meaningful items work best. Include photos of the work your donors are supporting on a jumbo magnet or send a thank-you card and include a Silicone bracelet they can wear in support of your cause. Be sure to remind donors about any upcoming fundraisers.
Run a social media contest
Finding fun and exciting ways to engage people with social media can help your crowdfunding campaign spread organically. Here are a couple of ways to approach this:
Choose a top donation day
Whoever gives the highest contribution on a particular (pre-selected) date gets a prize, like a cooler.
Have a social engagement day and tie it to a theme
Choose a post and then keep track of everyone who shares or comments on it. Put their names into a draw and select a winner. Make sure you stick with your theme. If, for example, you’re raising money to bring dental help to people in need, give the winner a tooth-themed pen and notepad.
Hold a special event
Kick off your fundraiser with a special evet. Or mark the end of a successful campaign by holding a public celebration. Use the event to boost awareness—and donations—during the most critical parts of your crowdfunding. To link your event to your crowdfunding, hand out nonprofit giveaways, like stickers or tote bags, that feature your brand or a special hashtag. Ask people to take photos of their swag and post them on social media.
Nonprofit promotional items keep your cause in mind
Crowdfunding can make a huge impact on your fundraising efforts, whether you’re raising funds for a one-time event or as part of your annual drive. Drive home your message with nonprofit promotional items and you’re sure to see success. Good luck!