To ensure the success of their projects and activities, non-profit organizations often rely on financial contributions from donations. There are various approaches to soliciting the public's generosity, ranging from managing crowdfunding campaigns to sending solicitations by post or e-mail.
If you're wondering how to capture the attention of potential donors and secure funding for your nonprofit projects, this article guides you through 4 proven strategies for raising funds effectively.
In pursuit of their objectives, most associations under the 1901 law need relevant financial support. There are several ways in which they can finance their activities, including membership fees, subsidies and donations. The latter represent a significant proportion of resources for many associations.
Making an appeal for donations is a widespread and often indispensable method. The question is: how do you go about it?
Differentiate between fundraising and participatory financing
You need to select the right approach and spread the right message. There are generally two main categories of donation: traditional fundraising and participatory financing. Each requires a specific communication strategy and offers different advantages.
Organize a donation drive
Appealing to public generosity by collecting donations is the first reflex of associations. This can be done on an ongoing basis, through recurring donations, or on a one-off basis for a specific project. Before you begin, you need to be transparent with potential donors about your intentions and the use of funds.
Take the time to clarify your motivations: supporting a national cause, financing the association's development, or a little of both... Being transparent and honest builds trust and motivates the public to support your cause.
It's also important to know that associations recognized as being of general interest or public utility are able to offer their donors a tax receipt.
Use crowdfunding for a specific project
Participatory financing, or crowdfunding, is a dynamic way of financing a well-defined project over a given period of time. This option requires precise planning and can call on your creativity, for example, by proposing rewards to donors in exchange for their contribution.
Setting financial thresholds at different levels can help materialize the progression of donations and encourage participation.
Appeal for donations by post or e-mail: how to proceed
Mailing, whether by post or electronically, remains a popular tool for associations to initiate an appeal for donations. To optimize your chances of success, you need to pay particular attention to the quality of your donor database, the content of the message and the supporting communication media.
According to a study entitled " Global Giving Report ", e-mails persuade almost 18% of donors. So make sure your messages are convincing, clear and concise.
Maximize the impact of social networks for your online fundraising campaigns
Social networks play a key role in the success of fundraising campaigns. They're the perfect platform for extending the reach of your appeal and reaching a diverse audience, especially young adults.
With its many features dedicated to the non-profit sector, Facebook has become an essential platform for multiplying charitable initiatives. Integrating the "Make a donation" function into your website or social networking pages can make it much easier to redirect visitors to a secure donation form.
Set up a powerful online donation form
A donation form should reflect your organization's image and be easy for donors to access and use. Creating an effective online donation form can be done in a few simple steps, but make sure it's personalized, secure and reassuring for donors in terms of fund management and personal data protection.
To build confidence, specify payment security features, explain how funds will be used, and detail your association's data protection measures.