There are many ways that individuals and companies can support
your cause. They can send in a donation via a remittance envelope,
attend a special event, volunteer their time, donate goods or services,
or sponsor events or activities -just to name a few.
When you're looking for ways to increase donations from individuals and companies, review some of these overlooked ideas to increase
efforts.
INCREASING MONETARY DONATIONS
Merchant Services Account
to accept debit/credit cards
If you want to expand
donation efforts consider setting up a merchant services account.
Accounts can be set up by visiting your bank or by using a convenient
online service like Authorize.net. You can take credit cards via your
website, at special events, for annual appeals/direct mail efforts, on
remittance envelopes, phone donations, etc. One of the easiest and most
convenient ways to allow donors to give!
Advertise your ability to
take credit cards on your remittance envelopes, newsletters, brochures,
flyers, on your website, promote during special events and even mention
it on your business car.
If you can't set up a
merchant services account at least consider using a system like the
Amazon Payments for
donations or the
Paypal donation system.
Printed materials such as
remittance envelopes should be used whenever possible. Take to special
events, send with newsletters and annual appeals, keep in your
office/facility to hand out easily to potential donors. These are one of
the most effective fundraising tools since they can be used right away
or a donor can take their time and mail back to your organization later.
No other printed piece works quite like a donation envelope. Visit our
sponsor printer
NotForProfitPrint.com to get discounted printing for your nonprofit.
INCREASING
AWARENESS
Social Networking
Social networking sites
like Facebook and Twitter can be very instrumental in getting the word
out about your organization. If you're not really familiar with these
sites or lack the technical computer skills to get things started visit
a local high school and look for volunteers. Most High school students
need community service hours donating their time to local nonprofits in
order to graduate. They are the perfect candidates to volunteer doing
what they love - networking with their friends while they build facebook
and twitter accounts for your organization.
Join The Chamber of Commerce
Most Chamber of Commerce organizations
offer reduced rate memberships for nonprofits. Take advantage of this
and join your local Chamber. Businesses use Chamber opportunities to
network and expand their business and nonprofits can benefit in the same
ways. Attend ongoing functions and send a letter, postcard or other
marketing piece to new Chamber members informing them of your services.
Most Chambers announce their new members in their monthly newsletters
complete with addresses and contact information. There are many
networking opportunities available and it's the best way to reach the
business community. It's recommend that the person that attends be the
Executive Director, Founder, Board Chair, Development Director or other
individual close to your organization that is qualified to be your
ambassador.
Community Networking
Most communities have many networking
groups for business members. Join these groups that meet on a weekly or
monthly basis and be sure to take your business cards and brochures.
Networking opportunities can include groups like ToastMasters,
professional organizations for specific industries, or anywhere
influential business members of your community gather. Some networking
groups charge fees or ask for door prizes in addition to the cost to
attend the luncheon. Be sure to ask for any nonprofit discounts that may
be available.
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which assumes no liability for the opinions expressed here and makes
no guarantees for the companies, fundraising tips, or resources
offered through the website. We strive to refer reputable companies
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