6 Tips for Raising More Money Using Social Media

There is a crazy cycle when it comes to finances: the more money you have, the more money you seem to need. When you started your non-profit you probably created a slim budget to include rent, a couple of employees, some direct mail campaigns, a couple of computers with printers and a few reams of printer paper. As your organization grew, so did the donations and the projects that would further your mission. Regardless of the size of your budget, everyone seems to need more charitable fundraising ideas. Here are a few from Mazarine Treyz, author of The Wild Woman’s Guide to Fundraising, and Steve Havelka, a Web-design consultant who is on the board of the Austin Civic Orchestra in an interview with Tony Martignetti on Philanthropy.com.

1)      “Know who your competition is. Create a message to your donors saying why your need is urgent and relevant,” explains Treyz. Make people fall in love with your organization: marketing is everything. One way to do this is with a monthly or bi-monthly e-newsletter. Not every time you communicate with a donor needs to involve an ask; just let them know what your organization is up to and that you are using their funds appropriately.

2)      “Your website is your face” states Havelka. Your donors and future donors are going to go to your website. If it’s not polished, they may not give. Most importantly, your donate button needs to be easy to find and put on every page. Secondly, put your story and human faces on your site and make it relatable.

3)      “Partner with people in your area to advance your cause,” suggests Havelka. Look for non-profit associations in your community that are contributing in a similar cause to your to find those with a like-mindedness.

4)      Create something for everyone to do. Treyz comments that 90% of volunteers are also donors. When you get your volunteers involved in an activity that they enjoy, they become more committed to your organization.

5)      Give your board members specific instructions on how they can support the organization. Make it easy for them to know how to be involved, be it through mailers or phone calls explains Havelka.

6)      Say “thank you.” Treyz mentions that when you show gratitude, your donors are twice as likely to give again.

All of these tips can be applied effectively through using social media. With this online communication tool you can easily share your non-profit’s personality, goals and projects. It’s a great way to connect with those who have similar interests and to recruit future donors and volunteers while staying in contact with your current supporters. Contact Fundly today to make the most of online fundraising. We would love to help you take full advantage of this effective tool.