Anyone in the nonprofit world knows how challenging it can be to acquire new donors. Money is a constant topic of discussion: How much do we need? Where will we find funding? How can we attract additional supporters?
Fundraising can be deeply satisfying, but the work itself is not always the easiest. While it's key to formulate a solid donor retention strategy, bringing in new donors to help fund your operations is also essential. Every nonprofit leader aims to grow their base, but it comes with its challenges.
Here are eight ways you can attract new donors for your nonprofit and reap the benefits of their generosity.
1. Host Online Fundraising Events
More people are spending their time online, and your nonprofit can host online fundraising events to help boost your donor acquisition numbers. Potential donors only need an internet connection and a device to attend, making online gatherings much more attractive. No more dressing up and attending a fancy gala.
Hosting an online event requires some knowledge of the internet, but there are plenty of resources to help get you started and find solutions to common problems. Hosting an online fundraising event requires proper planning and adequate resources.
Virtual gatherings offer your organization flexibility in a way traditional meetups cannot. They often cost less than renting out a space and help expand your reach.
2. Use Heartfelt, Compelling Imagery
Nonprofit organizations tend to pull at potential donors' heartstrings to receive donations. Humans are visual beings, and showing how their generosity can help your cause through imagery will help bring in new supporters.
One image is worth a thousand words, and using compelling photos will help tell donors your story. You must use images that are free from copyright to avoid getting into legal trouble. Thankfully, there are plenty of online resources you can use to improve your organization's imagery and effectively reach potential supporters.
3. Switch up Your Donation Tiers
Nonprofit organizations usually offer different levels of giving to their potential donors. Take the American Red Cross, for example. It seeks various amounts depending on the donor's choice. People can provide between $25 and $1,000 or enter the specific amount they'd like to donate.
Experiment with different donation tiers to help acquire new donors. This will help educate people about how their money will be used to make a meaningful impact.
Research shows that adding donation levels to your website increases average contributions by 12%, so it's worth placing them on your site.
4. Adjust Your Funding Model
It's crucial to have a solid funding model to serve as a foundation for your nonprofit to be sustainable. For example, here are some funding models you could try out:
- Heartfelt connector
- Beneficiary builder
- Member motivator
- Big bettor
Consider all these funding models before selecting one. You must share it with your sponsors, as this could change the amount of money they provide. It is also an excellent opportunity to attract new donors and employ your retention strategy.
5. Elevate Your Online Presence
Any business or nonprofit knows how the internet plays a significant role in acquiring new donors and holding on to existing ones. Digital marketing is an ever-changing landscape, so be sure to keep up with current trends to see what will work best for your nonprofit.
Establishing a solid online presence will help new donors feel secure in their giving. They know your website is authoritative and that their donations will be put to good use. Make sure to design your website effectively and incorporate your nonprofit's mission statement on the front page.
6. Utilize Social Media Platforms
People use social media for various reasons, but it can also be a great way to encourage potential donors to invest in your organization's mission. Many nonprofits are already using social media to advertise their purpose and attract new donors. Spreading the word about your organization by word-of-mouth is also helpful, but with so many people on the internet, it would be a waste not to use specific platforms to reach new audiences.
Improve your ability to engage with new audiences by posting current happenings on your social media profiles. This is also a great place to add testimonials of past donors.
7. Use Target Marketing
It's beneficial to use target marketing strategies to reach new potential donors. Segment them by demographics, and choose which group would be most rewarding for your organization.
It always pays off to know your audience, and using target marketing strategies helps you do just that. Without your donor base, much of the work you do wouldn't be possible. By taking the time to understand your audience, you can select specific tactics that will increase the chances of receiving funding.
8. Showcase Your Impact
Although it may sound intimidating at first, showcasing your work to potential donors is a perfect way to attract them to your nonprofit organization. When they see exactly how their money is being used, they will naturally feel more willing to donate and even increase their contribution.
Be sure to create videos or upload photos of volunteer work that your organization participates in. Highlight any memorable moments, and be sure to include testimonials. This will help showcase the good work your nonprofit is doing and urge donors to join in.
Reaching Potential Donors: No Simple Task
The goal for many nonprofits is to reach a broad audience of potential donors to help support their cause. Yours is no exception.
While it may be challenging to reach new donors, remain patient and employ some of the strategies listed above. These methods will help bolster your nonprofit and attract contributors that keep your organization running smoothly.
This post was authored by Eleanor Hecks
Eleanor is editor-in-chief at
Ms. Career Girl was started in 2008 to help ambitious young professional women figure out who they are, what they want and how to get it.
