The number of smartphone users has increased from 3668 billion users in 2016 to 6378 billion users in 2021. (Source: https://www.statista.com/statistics/330695/number-of-smartphone-users-worldwide/). Responsive websites and mobile-friendly methods to donate are no longer an option but a must for nonprofits. One of the most convenient ways of donating using a mobile is text-to-give.

Text to give has become a must-have fundraising option for nonprofits in recent times because of the highly increased screen times of smartphone users during COVID 19. In a survey conducted on 1300 consumers, marketers, and businesses in 2021, 61% of the mobile users say that the time they spend on texting has increased significantly due to COVID. (Source: https://simpletexting.com/2021-texting-statistics/). So, if nonprofits are not offering text-to-give as a method for donating, they are missing out on a huge opportunity!

Text-to-give seems to have become a buzzword in recent times. It is known by different names like text giving, mobile giving, text-to-pledge(if donors pledge to donate a specific amount), etc.

What is Text to give?

Text to give is a method of donating to a charity with the help of a simple text message.

Here’s how it works:

The donor is required to send a specified keyword to a short code. The keyword indicates the charity for which the funds are being donated and the short code is a string of numbers which is a shortened mobile number.

The keyword and the shortcode are specified by the nonprofit that is raising the funds.

There are two ways in which the donation is transferred to the nonprofit:

Text to give: The amount to be donated is added to the mobile bill of the donor. The nonprofit receives donations from the mobile services provider. The main drawback of this method is that cellphone providers usually put a cap on the number of funds that can be donated.

Text To donate: In this method, the donors are directed to a donation page when they text the keyword. They will need to register and fill a form furnishing the details required. They can directly donate the amount to the nonprofit.

Each of these methods has its pros and cons. Nonprofits choose either of the methods for fundraising using mobile. A fundraising platform is required to set up and implement text to donate.

Once the nonprofit receives the donation, the donor receives an acknowledgment from the nonprofit, thanking them for the donation.

The average text to donate amount is $107. (Source: https://www.givesmart.com/blog/text-to-donate-fundraising-statistics/)This indicates that text-to-donate has the potential to attract large donations.

Text to give is an effective fundraising strategy for large events wherein the nonprofit is already connected with donors through presentations, videos, etc. Some examples where the text to give is used are events like galas, outdoor fairs, and more.

One of the recent examples of a successful Text to give campaign is by First Responders Children’s Foundation in March 2020. They organized a living room concert hosted by Elton John. In this fundraiser, the donors needed to message the keyword “Thanks” to the short code 76278 to donate. This campaign generated $140000. (Source: https://www.givesmart.com/blog/text-to-donate-fundraising-statistics/).

Another well-known and extremely successful text-to-give campaign is the one organized by American Red Cross for the 2010 Haiti Earthquake. A staggering $21 million was raised during the text-to-give campaign.

Text to give is popular among donors and nonprofits love it too!

Donors like the text to give because it is convenient. Donors can donate easily from anywhere at any time. It is a secure method of donation. Donors can donate any amount without carrying cash.

Why Nonprofits Love Text to Give?

Nonprofits love text to give because of a myriad of benefits this method offers:

1. Reach a Wide Audience

The number of cell phone users is constantly increasing. In a survey conducted in 2021 on 1300 consumers, business owners, and marketers in the US, it was found that 78% of the consumers check, send, and answer text messages throughout the day. (Source: https://simpletexting.com/2021-texting-statistics/). So, offering a text-to-give method to donors helps nonprofits reach a wide audience.

2. Convenience to Donors

It is a fast and easy way to donate to nonprofits for donors. They do not require credit cards or remember to send a cheque, etc. All they need to do is type in a message.

3. Easy to Operate

Once the nonprofit has the right software to implement text to give, it can be set up to offer a convenient method to donors. Donors are familiar with texting and do not require any training on how to use text-to-give.

4. Can be Integrated with an Existing Infrastructure

The system of the smartphone providers, users, and billing, etc. is already set up and operational. The infrastructure has been working smoothly for years. Integrating text-to-give to the already operational system requires minimal expenses and efforts by the nonprofit. Besides, the audience is already familiar with texting.

6. Promotion Is Easy

Most text-to-give platforms facilitate the promotion and marketing of the fundraising campaign. Therefore, promoting the campaign becomes easy for the nonprofit.

7. Provides Valuable Insights

The software used provides insights about the campaign that helps nonprofits optimize future campaigns.

8. Provides Details About Donors

In a text to donate campaign, donors are required to furnish details like their name and contact details like their phone number, email address, etc. This helps nonprofits establish a personal connection with donors.

9. Attracts More Donations

Since the number of smartphone users is increasing at a very fast pace, this method can reach a wide audience easily. The convenience this method offers encourages donors to contribute more.

Donations can be made by donors on the go. They do not have to be physically present at an event to donate to a cause.

Donors are not restricted by the amount of cash they have in person, they can donate any amount using text messages.

It encourages impulse donations. When you promote your charity and your audience likes what they see and feel the urge to donate, they can donate instantly using text-to-give on their smartphones. They don’t need to be physically present anywhere or have cash in hand.

10. Can be Used with Other Fundraising Campaigns

Many text-to-give platforms facilitate integrating the text-to-give campaign with other fundraisers. This reduces the expenses of organizing separate fundraisers and attracts more donations.

11. Recurring Donations

Some text-to-give platforms support recurring donations by facilitating giving by just repeating the keyword and sending the message. The donors are not required to fill forms, etc. every time.

One of the key elements in organizing successful text-to-give campaigns is the software used for the campaign. The nonprofit must select a platform that caters to all its needs. There are several platforms available for implementing text-to-give campaigns. iConnectx is one of the best platforms for hosting a text-to-give campaign. It is best suited for any fundraising campaign by nonprofits because it provides end-t-end features for organizing any fundraising campaign.

The success of any fundraising event is gauged by the revenue generated by the event which solely depends on the number of attendees to the event. Whether it is an online event or an offline one, the number of people who attend the event determines its success. One of the chief focus areas for a fundraising event is ticket sales.

In a physical event, the nonprofit can sell tickets online or sell paper tickets to attendees through various channels. Selling tickets for virtual events is slightly different. You will need event management software that includes the ticketing feature.

Usually, nonprofits plan the event and send invites through emails, etc. to their regular donors to inform them about the event and urge them to purchase tickets for the same. Also, nonprofits create a buzz about the event through different social media channels to attract their audience for the event.

Nonprofits need to sell more tickets for the fundraising event and this is not an easy task! However, a little planning and strategic thinking can help maximize ticket sales for a fundraising event. Increasing ticket sales directly impacts the total amount of funds raised. Hence, ticket sales is an important area of focus for a fundraising event.

Here are 8 ways to sell more tickets for your nonprofit’s fundraising event:

1. Optimal Pricing of Tickets

The first step towards ticket sales is pricing your tickets right and incentivizing attendees. Make sure to price your tickets such that your attendees see value for money. Pricing tickets too high can discourage your audience and pricing it too low is likely to make your work a lot harder. Find an optimum price for the tickets to your event. This can be done by finding how other nonprofits have priced similar events. Make sure that you cover all the expenses incurred in planning the event while pricing the tickets.

2. Ticketing Tiers

Price tiers for tickets are an effective way to incentivize attendees to come to the event. Some commonly used ticketing tiers include Half-day tickets, early bird tickets, and VIP tickets. Offering discounts is also effective for boosting sales. However, for any kind of ticketing tier, the core price of the ticket must be optimal.

3. Start Selling your Tickets Early

You don’t have to wait until you mail the invitations to start selling the tickets. You can start selling the tickets even before that. You can ask your host committee to sell tickets to their network. Make sure that you set up your online ticket selling platform early so that you can make tickets available to your audience. You can also create excitement around ticket sales through early-bird discounts, etc.

4. Make it Easy to Buy Tickets

Do not have a complicated procedure for buying tickets for the event. Offer safe and secure platforms for purchasing tickets. Make it easy to buy tickets through methods like scanning QR codes for payment, etc.

5. Explain the Benefits of Attending the Event

Put yourself in the position of a potential attendee and think why would you attend the event? Prepare a promotional strategy that explains the benefits of attending the fundraising event for the attendees. You can highlight the purpose for which the funds are being raised. Explain why such causes need the support of the attendees.

You can also highlight the features of the event that will make it interesting for the attendees. For instance, you can call celebrity guests to speak at the event and advertise the name of the celebrity in the promotion. You can make the event interactive and highlight this aspect in your promotions.

You can promise attendees some surprise at the event.

6. Social Promotion

Social media has a wide reach and it is the fastest way to reach a large audience. So, create effective social media campaigns to promote your event through social media channels. You can direct the traffic to your website from where web visitors can easily buy their tickets.

7. Leverage Supporters Networks

One of the most effective ways of increasing ticket sales is leveraging the networks of your supporters. Encourage your donors, supporters, etc. to sell event tickets to their friends, colleagues, etc. This can be done before you start sending out the invitations. You can make the task easier by creating flyers or handouts about your event that your supporters can share with their network.

8. Make Sure to Follow-up

Many nonprofits stop after sending the invitations for the fundraising event! But, it is a good idea to follow up with your invitees to remind and push them to purchase the ticket. However, make sure that you are not a “pushy salesman” while reminding the invitees.

Here’s how the ticketing process for an online event works(for attendees)

• Potential attendees visit your branded ticketing page to purchase access to the date and time for the event. To gain access they will need to register and pay for the event. You can direct your audience to the branded page through social media channels, emails sent, etc.
• People who pay and buy access to the event will receive a unique code through which they can access the event.
• Attendees can enter the unique access code a few minutes before the event starts to enter the waiting room.
• When the event starts, all those in the waiting room will be able to join the event.

The entire process is streamlined through event management software. The platforms are beneficial for organizing both in-person and virtual events. There are several event management platforms available to choose from. Make sure that you evaluate the different platforms and choose the one the best meets the needs of your nonprofit.

How nonprofits can organize a Fundraising Event Using an Event Platform?

• You can host your event on YouTube, Zoom, Facebook, Vimeo, etc. The link for the event can be added to the event page.
• Those who are interested in attending the event will need to register and purchase a ticket for the event.
• You can send a code to the registered attendees through the platform.
• Registered attendees can join the live stream using the code.

Some event platforms facilitate customizing the event page with event details, the theme of the event, colors of your brand, logo, etc. You can promote your event through the event platform with email marketing, social media marketing, and more. Event platforms also provide valuable insights to track the effectiveness of promotional strategies, feedback about the event, and more!

While the needs and budget of each nonprofit vary for the selection of an event management platform, here are some common features to look for while selecting one:

• Customizable
• Easy to use
• Support for set up and maintenance
• Secure payment gateway
• Offer a seamless experience to your audience

It is recommended that you select a platform that supports different types of fundraising events so that you can organize different types of events with ease. It is beneficial to choose platforms that offer features for promotion and marketing. However, the choice of features would largely depend on your budget for the software.

One of the best event hosting platforms is iConnectx. This platform has all the features to support different types of fundraising events for nonprofits. iConnectx includes features that facilitate end-to-end event management from registration and ticket sales to tracking the success of the event.

Auctions have been a popular means of fundraising for nonprofits for years. However, the pandemic has changed the direction of auctions from physical events to virtual events. In other words in 2020 we have seen several nonprofits hosting online auctions successfully.

How Online Auction for a Nonprofit Works?

The concept of an online auction is the same as a physical one. In a physical auction, the participants meet at a venue and bid for products/services on auction. The highest bidder wins the auction and gets the product/service. In a physical auction, the bids are announced loud and clear so that everyone knows what the bid is and can bid higher.

Sometimes bids are not announced, bidders can send their bids privately through mobile text messages or written on paper.

In an online auction, the articles on auction and the starting bid is announced by the nonprofit on various channels. Bidders can send in their bids anonymously to the host of the auction. The highest bid and the winner is announced online. Some nonprofits organize virtual events to declare the winner of the auction.

So, if you are wondering if you should host an online auction or stick to the physical version, it would be beneficial to look at the pros and cons of hosting an online auction.

Online Auction: Pros and Cons

Pros

Wider Reach

Online auctions can reach an audience across global boundaries. Bidders from across the globe can participate in the auction by sending in their bids. This helps the nonprofit increase its visibility as well. It is beneficial for donors because they can participate in auctions associated with charities that they would like to support irrespective of their physical location.

Anonymity

Bidders can send in their bids anonymously if they prefer to do so. It is easier to maintain anonymity in online auctions than in physical ones.

Longer Duration

Physical auctions are organized for a limited duration. However, the duration of an online auction can be much longer. The nonprofit can decide on the time period for which the auction is held.

Convenient

Online auctions are more convenient because bids can be sent from anywhere and at any time. Bidders can easily send their bids even if they are in different time zones. Besides, bids can be sent through mobiles making it easier to send bids when the bidder is on the go. Bidders do not need to travel anywhere, they can make their bids from the comfort of their homes.

Economical

Online auctions are less expensive to host when compared with physical auctions because several expenses are eliminated. For instance, cost of the venue, catering, etc. The only major expense for hosting an online auction is that the online auction platform. However, it is a one-time investment and it proves lower than hosting a physical event in the long run.

Better Tracking

An online event platform facilitates data analysis by providing detailed data such as number of people who registered, how many times an item was clicked, and more. This data provides valuable insights to enhance the user experience in future events.

Cons

Lacks the Excitement

Online auctions do not have the thrill and excitement that attendees in a physical event experience. When there are several bidders in a hall and they are bidding, the fervor and the excitement builds up. This is totally missing in an online event.

Pictures Might be Misleading

In a virtual auction, bidders don’t get an opportunity to physically see the item they are bidding for. Bids are made based on the picture of the product. Pictures might be misleading and the real product might be quite different from what it appeared in the pictures.

Bids are Higher

Since online auctions have more participants compared to the physical auction, a bidder has to compete with a much larger group. Hence, he will need to quote very high to ensure that he does not get outbid.

Vulnerable to Cyber Attacks

Cybercrime is quite rampant on different platforms on the internet. An online auction could make the bidder more vulnerable to a cyber attack.

Delivery will take Longer

In a physical auction, the product is given to the highest bidder immediately after the auction. However, in an online auction, the product has to be sent to the winner and this might take longer.

If you are considering running an online auction and wondering “How to Run a Virtual Auction?” here’s how:

The roadmap for planning an online auction includes:

• Procuring the item.
• Establishing the dates and timelines for the auction.
• Defining the starting bid for the auction.
• Scheduling the promotional activities for the auction.
• Marketing the online auction through email marketing, social media marketing, etc.
• Hosting the virtual auction using the online auction platform.
• Delivering the articles to the winners.
• Analyzing data to assess the success/failure of the auction.

Steps for Hosting a Virtual Auction:

Step 1: Establish your Fundraising Goals:

If you are planning to run a fundraising auction, you need to establish what amount you expect to generate through the auction.

Step 2: Budget your Expenses

Organizing any fundraising event has several costs associated with it. It is recommended that you allocate a specific budget for your online auction. This will help you stay on track and not go overboard with your expenses.

Step 3: What you Need?

Here’s a list of what you will need to host an online auction:

Products to be auctioned: You will need to procure items to be auctioned and establish the lowest bid for the auction. You can use the data gathered from previous auctions to decide on the type of products to procure for the auction.

Online auction platform: An online fundraising platform is software that helps host an online auction. Online fundraising platforms incite giving and help create a community of supporters of your nonprofit. Several vendors are offering a myriad of online auction platforms with different features. Make sure that you choose an online auction platform that meets the needs of your fundraiser.

Promotion tools: The online auction will need to be promoted on different channels to attract more participants. A well-planned promotion strategy can help you reach a wider audience. Certain online auction platforms facilitate marketing and promotion as well.

Will your online auction be integrated with other fundraisers? If you want to integrate other fundraisers such as peer-to-peer fundraising, etc., with your online auction, make room for it in the planning stages itself.

Step 4: Planning the Online Auction

Break the main objective of online auction into smaller goals with specific timelines. Create teams for different tasks associated with the auction. For instance, one team can look at the marketing plan, another can take care of procuring the items, etc.

Step 5: Host the Auction

Host your online auction. You can use innovative ideas like live streaming, etc., to make the auction more interesting for your audience.

Step 6: Data Analytics

One of the best features of online auction platforms is that they provide all details such as the number of bidders, their locations, and more. All these valuable insights help you plan future auctions customized to the needs of your audience.

The key ingredient for a successful online auction is the online auction platform. You must choose the platform carefully so that you procure the best one for your nonprofit. It is recommended that you create a checklist of features you require and compare the features of different platforms according to the checklist and choose the best one that meets the needs of your nonprofit. Also, make sure that the cost of the platform is within your budget.

One of the best online auction platforms is iConnectx! This platform offers features that help in end-to-end planning, organizing, and hosting of an online auction.

As per the data recorded by Statista, there are 6378 billion smartphone users worldwide in 2021. And this number is expected to increase to a whopping 7516 billion by 2026! (Source: https://www.statista.com/statistics/330695/number-of-smartphone-users-worldwide/) Therefore it comes as no surprise that businesses across the globe are ensuring that they have responsive website designs and facilitate multiple options on mobiles for users. Nonprofits are also adopting mobile-friendly technologies to increase their reach.

Mobile giving increased by 205% in the past year. (Source: https://donorbox.org/nonprofit-blog/text-to-give-fundraising-guide/). This goes on to show that nonprofits must offer mobile-friendly options to donors.

Responsive website designs, QR codes, text-to-give, are some of the ways in which nonprofits are reaching out to donors.

Responsive website designs are web pages that are optimized for mobiles so that users can access the website through their smartphones. These websites also include donation pages that can be accessed on mobiles, where donors can donate directly.

QR codes have brought in the “scan to give” option where donors can scan the QR code and donate directly to the charity.

Text-to-give is another easy and secure method of donating that has become popular among donors.

Text-to-give Overview:

Text-to-give facilitates donations directly through smartphones using the phones’ native texting app or web browser.

How does Text-to-give work for Nonprofits?

• The nonprofit will need text-to-give software to facilitate giving through mobile text messages. Several vendors offer this software.
• Your vendor will provide you with a unique shortcode through which donations are made. A shortcode is a phone number reduced to 5-6 digits.
• The nonprofit can define a keyword that clearly indicates the cause to which the donation is to be made.
• Nonprofits need to promote their text-to-give campaigns to increase their exposure to a wider audience.
• Donors will need to send the keyword as a text message to the short-code provided.
• Nonprofits receive the donation either directly from donors or the donation is received from mobile service providers.
• After the donation is made, the nonprofit sends an acknowledgment that includes an automated receipt via email.
• Nonprofits can also include a repeat feature that encourages donors to repeat their donations.

How Text-to-give works for Donors?

• Donors can donate directly to a charity of their choice with a simple text message.
• The text message to be sent is known as a keyword that directly indicates the cause for which the donation is made.
• A shortcode is provided to which the message needs to be sent.
• There are two ways of donating through this method:
• Text-to-give: The donor messages the keyword to the shortcode, the amount being donated is added to his cell phone bill.
• Text-to-donate: In this method, the donors are directed to a mobile donation page after they message the keyword to the shortcode and they directly donate the amount to the charity.
• Donors can furnish the payment information like the donation amount, etc. in the online donation forms.
• After the donation is made, donors receive an acknowledgment along with a receipt for the donation made.
• Text-to-give makes it easy for donors to make recurring payments with the repeat option.

Text-to-give is becoming popular among donors because of the benefits they offer:

Fast and Convenient

Text-to-give does not take too much time to donate. Donors just need to text a keyword for donating. Donations can be made from anywhere at any time. Donors can donate even when they are on the go.

Secure

One of the main causes of concern while making an online payment is cyber security. Most vendors offer PCI-compliant text-to-give software that makes payments secure. Further tokenization process is used to prevent security breaches. Tokenization is when sensitive data like credit card details are replaced by a token between the text platform and the payment processor.

Intuitive

Texting has become a habit among most people. Hence, sending a text message to donate is almost an intuitive process. Besides, it is such a simple method of giving that it encourages impulse giving. For instance, if a donor notices a billboard, or a post on social media about a charity and feels inspired, he is likely to send in a text message to donate.

Increases the Donor Base

The text-to-give donation option is popular among donors and they are likely to encourage others in their circle of friends and family to donate.

Fundraising for nonprofits using text-to-give can be done either on its own or with other fundraising campaigns.

They are an ideal option for virtual fundraising events. For instance, in an online auction, text-to-give works perfectly. Donors can directly send their bids through text messages. They can be sent information if they have been outbid through push notifications.

You can create a fundraising campaign that relies soles on text-to-give.

Text-to-give is also suited for peer-to-peer giving where volunteers can raise funds via text-to-give.

You can also include the text-to-give details such as the keyword and the shortcode in your promotion campaigns online and offline to make it easier for donors.

Several vendors provide text-to-give software to facilitate donations. Each software has a specific set of features. The nonprofit must select the software that has features that are relevant to its fundraising campaigns.

Here are some features that are included in text-to-give software:

Customizable: Some platforms allow nonprofits to customize the text-to-give campaigns.

Fundraising Thermometers: Text-to-give platforms include fundraising thermometers that indicate the number of funds created at different stages. It also indicates how far or close are the funds collected from the goal of the fundraising campaign.

Number of Campaigns Supported: Some text-to-give platforms have a limitation on the number of fundraising campaigns they support while others may support unlimited campaigns.

Donation Pages: Text-to-give platforms also include donation pages where donors can provide their details and make donations.

Event Ticket Management: Certain text-to-give platforms facilitate event ticket management as well.

Repeat Donations: Some of the text-to-give platforms offer the feature of repeat donations where donors can repeat a specific donation they have made.

PCI Compliant: Most text-to-give platforms are PCI compliant and offer a secure means of donation.

Marketing and Promotion: Certain text-to-give platforms help nonprofits spread the word about their campaigns by offering tools for marketing and promotions.

Integration to Fundraising Campaigns: While some platforms offer only text-to-give features others facilitate linking the text-to-give feature with fundraising campaigns.

Analytics: Any fundraising campaign must be compared with certain metrics to assess its success or failure. Certain text-to-give platforms include a comprehensive reporting feature that provides valuable insights about the campaign.

Text-to-give platforms may include these and other additional features. Alternatively, they may not include all these features but only a few of them. A nonprofit organization needs to assess what features of the platform are relevant and choose a platform accordingly.

Nonprofits can choose a text-to-give platform based on the following criteria:

• It can meet your fundraising goals.
• It is within your budget.
• The platform must integrate with your existing CRM.
• Choose a platform that your donors are comfortable using.
• Choose a platform where the vendor provides support for setting up and maintenance.
• Make sure that the platform offers a secure environment to users.

While these are some basic features that any text-to-give software must have, you can select additional features as per the needs of your organization.

One of the best text-to-give platforms is iConnectx! It is well-suited for nonprofits and has a myriad of features that benefit nonprofits. iConnectx offers a secure and simple platform that delights the users.

Have you noticed a black and white patchwork of squares at stores, supermarkets, for online transactions, and more?

These are QR codes. They have been around for some time now, but the pandemic has propelled their widespread usage since 2020!

The reason for this is the pandemic forcing the use of contactless methods for transactions. QR codes have served as an excellent means for making contactless payments.

What are QR codes?

A QR code is a two-dimensional bar code image. When it is scanned using a smartphone or a tablet it can open the link to a website, send SMS messages, emails, or dial a phone number. QR codes or Quick Response codes were envisaged as a replacement for bar codes that were traditionally used on products for payment. QR codes carry a lot more data compared to bar codes. They can be easily read, and they simplify the manufacturing and distribution process.

Smartphone owners can scan QR codes by first downloading a QR Code Reader from App Store/ Gallery. Scanning the QR code entails taking a photograph of the code with the smartphone.

Because of the data that can be embedded in a QR code, it offers infinite possibilities to users.

When a QR code is scanned:

• It can open a web page.
• Log into a website
• Display multimedia content
• Provide data to user’s device
• Compose email or text message
• Download apps, and more.

These possibilities have made QR codes extremely popular among retailers and other agencies. And nonprofits are also using QR codes for facilitating donations.

In the last few years, there has been a surge in the number of mobile users worldwide. And nonprofits need to provide responsive websites that can be accessed through smartphones. There has also been a marked increase in mobile giving because of the convenience they offer. Data reveals that half of the website traffic for nonprofits in 2020 was from mobile and tablet users. Offering a QR code to donors is the next step that nonprofits can take to make it easier for donors to contribute to charities.

If you are wondering “How can my charity start using QR codes?” here’s how:

• First of all, you must ensure that your website can be accessed on mobile and tablets. This is because QR codes are designed to be used on smartphones and not on desktops.
• Generate a QR code with the help of a QR code generator. There are several free options available online for generating QR codes. You can also consider paid or subscription versions for greater flexibility. Paid versions offer customization with the brand colors, logo, etc., you can also integrate data analytics to the code, and more.
• Link the QR code to web pages designed for mobile browsing. Make sure the QR code is linked to the Donate Now or Text-to-Give-Now pages.
• It is recommended that you link the QR code to the mobile version of your social networking sites.
• Donors can scan the QR Code from their smartphones. They will be directed to a mobile web browser to view the link in the QR code. Alternatively, they can be sent a text message or a prompt to dial a number.
• QR codes work perfectly for location-based fundraising campaigns.

QR codes can be used in a myriad of ways by nonprofits.

Before you start integrating QR codes into your nonprofit, here are some points to consider:

• Do not use QR code just because it is popular or for the sake of using it. Make sure that the QR code is used for a specific purpose.
• Ensure that scanning the QR code is beneficial for the donor as well.
• Define where the QR code will direct users and ensure that you create the QR code accordingly.
• Test the QR code that is easy to scan and directs users as intended before sharing it.

Check out these areas of application of QR codes:

Tell Your Brand’s Story: A nonprofit can share its mission with its audience by linking the QR code to pictures, videos, and testimonials, etc.

Easy Donations: Linking the QR code to the donation page of the website leads the users to the form where they can donate directly.

Provide Transparency to Donors: Donors like to know how and where their funds are being used. QR codes at the point of donation offer donors a clear view of where their donations are sent.

Resolve Queries: QR codes can direct users to the frequently asked questions page where their queries can get resolved.

Fundraising Appeals: You can use the QR code in fundraising appeals to make it easy to donate.

Fundraising Events: At fundraising events, you can get your donors to participate by scanning the QR code for registration. You can also display the QR code on banners, etc.

Billboards and Flyers: If you are promoting your nonprofit by advertising on billboards or distributing flyers, it is a good idea to include QR codes on billboards and flyers.

Donation Boxes and Buckets: By adding a QR code to donation boxes or buckets, you encourage donors to contribute even if they are not carrying cash. QR codes offer an easy option to scan and give. QR codes can also be placed in different areas within the nonprofit to encourage donors.

Embed QR codes on Partners’ Websites: Many nonprofits partner with the fundraising organizations. You can embed a QR code on the partner website and offer an easy way for their clients, employees, etc., to make donations.

Share on Email Newsletters: You can share QR codes in email newsletters helping donors scan and make donations via emails in their inboxes.

Analyze Donations: QR codes can also be used to study donation trends from different locations. You can assign a different QR code to different locations and check out the number of funds raised from specific locations. These insights will help you optimize your fundraising campaigns.

Boost Future Donations: QR codes capture GSPR compliant data from each donor. You can leverage this data to re-market to these donors for future campaigns.

Besides these, there are umpteen other possibilities of using QR codes by nonprofits. This is why there is an increase in the “scan to give” campaigns of nonprofits.

How do QR codes facilitate scan to give?

QR codes link to different payment options facilitating scan to give.

Donate through Paypal: After scanning the QR code, the donor can confirm donation by entering their Paypal username and password.

Donate using Credit Card: The donor will need to provide his credit card details after scanning the QR code.

Text-to-give using QR code: The donor charges the amount donated to his cellphone account after scanning the QR code.

Supports both Cash and In-kind Donations: This option is more popular among corporates who want to donate. After scanning the QR code, the business can donate either cash or products to the nonprofit.

QR codes offer infinite options to nonprofits for increasing the visibility of the brand, fundraising, and more. Besides, they are easy to integrate and offer a safe and contactless method of fundraising. They also help increase the reach of the nonprofit. Donors across the globe can easily scan the code and contribute to different charities.

If you have not yet explored the infinite possibilities offered by QR codes, it is time to give it a serious thought! Because if you offer your donors the option to scan and give, you are likely to attract more donors and raise more funds!

Nonprofits raise funds by receiving donations from individuals and corporate donors. If a donor is considering a contribution to a charity, he would like to ascertain that the nonprofit is authentic, and donations are being used as intended. Therefore, the nonprofit needs to evoke that trust among the donors.

Donors usually trust nonprofits that follow all the legalities and adhere to the rules set by the state and federal governments. Besides, if donating to nonprofits also offers tax benefits to donors, they are more inclined to contribute to the nonprofit.

Nonprofits that are legal and adhere to all the rules are considered 501(c)(3) nonprofits.

Nonprofits can accept donations according to the rules set forth by the IRS(Internal Revenue System) and the state where the nonprofit is established. Nonprofits can adhere to these rules and provide a system where donors get tax benefits while the nonprofits get the funds. It is recommended that nonprofits comply with all the laws that govern them to accept donations.

Donations to 501(c)(3) nonprofits are exempt from federal income tax under section 501(c)(3) of the US tax code. To qualify as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the source for the major chunk of the revenue must be public donations.

What are the Rules for Nonprofits to Accept Donations?

• Gifts Must be for Nonprofit Purposes

A gift is something given without any compensation in return. However, if a donation is to a legitimate charity, the donor can get a tax rebate.

• Gift Must be for a Valid Charitable Purpose

The IRS defines charities for religious, scientific, or community benefit as legitimate charities. A nonprofit can qualify to accept 501(c)(3) donations only if the contributions it receives are for religious, scientific, literary, or community benefits. Nonprofits that work towards the prevention of cruelty to women, children, or animals also qualify as 501(c)(3) nonprofits.

• Gifts are Different from Unrelated Business Income

Unrelated business income is considered a business income rather than a gift or donation.

According to the tax code, an Unrelated Business Income is defined by the following rules:

• If the transaction is a trade or business.
• The income is ongoing and regular.
• If the income generated is not aligned with the charitable purpose of the nonprofit.

The intent of your business and the methods used for generating revenue for the charity are key factors that determine whether it is an unrelated business income or not.

• Nonprofits Must Provide Written Acknowledgement for the Donations

All donations of $250 and above must be given a written acknowledgment to qualify as a gift and be deductible under the Internal Revenue Code.

The written acknowledgment must include:

• Name of the nonprofit.
• Amount donated/worth of goods donated.
• A statement of goods/services received in return for the donation.

Providing an acknowledgment for the donations received helps build trust among the donors. Besides it also helps donors claim tax benefits for their contribution to the charity.

All these rules are applicable for a nonprofit to qualify as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. One may wonder if 501(c)(3) is a must or can a nonprofit accept donations without 501(c)(3)?

A nonprofit need not adhere to the 501(c)(3) rules for establishing itself. However, 501(c)(3) is important for donors. This is because when donors contribute to a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, they get a tax deduction for the donation. Besides, donors trust nonprofits with 501(c)(3) and deem them to be legitimate. Therefore, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit attracts more donors and retains donors as well.

There are several ways in which nonprofits receive donations. In recent years, online donations have become a preferred mode of donation for nonprofits.

Online Donations-An Overview

Online donations are when a non-profit raises funds through the internet. This is usually done through an online donation page of the nonprofit. Online giving has become a preferred mode of donations among donors because it offers convenience, speed, and a secure mode of payment. Besides, it facilitates fundraising through any location across the globe. Data reveals that online revenue increased by 23% in the last year. (Source: https://doublethedonation.com/tips/matching-grant-resources/nonprofit-fundraising-statistics/).

Recurring donations or online monthly giving is also easier with online methods. Online donations also support different fundraising options like mobile giving, peer-to-peer fundraising, etc.

Benefits of Online Donations to Nonprofits:

• Nonprofits can Reach Donors across the Globe

With online donation options, a nonprofit can reach donors at different locations across the globe. As long the donors have internet access and a link to the website of the nonprofit, they can donate at a time of their convenience from anywhere.

• Online Giving Offers Access to Donor Information

Online giving helps nonprofits get details like donor email addresses, billing addresses, and more.

• Less Expensive than Other Methods

The cost of setting up the payment page and associated costs of maintaining it is minimal compared to all other types of donations.

• Increases Visibility of the Website

Online donations increase the exposure of your website on the internet and drive more traffic to your website.

How Online Donations are Beneficial for Donors?

• Convenient

The internet is easily available to nearly everyone. As long as the donors can access the internet, all they need is a link to your website to make donations. They can make donations at any time convenient to them.

• Secure Method of Donation

While contributing to a nonprofit, donors need to provide details about their identity and credit card details, etc. It can prove to be quite risky if this information falls into the wrong hands and is misused. However, online methods use security measures like PCI compliance, encryption, and more to ensure that the data is safe and secure.

• Recurring Donations are Easy

Before the online donations, recurring donations were made through physical cheques sent monthly to nonprofits. However, online donations can be automated and monthly payments scheduled. Due to this reason, recurring online giving has become extremely popular, and online revenue has increased by 40% in the past year. (Source: https://doublethedonation.com/tips/matching-grant-resources/nonprofit-fundraising-statistics/)

The growing popularity of online giving has made online giving a must for 501(c)(3) nonprofits. Online donations are technology-driven and require a suitable platform to facilitate them.

There are several online tools available to set up a donation page online. Each tool has its specific set of features. A nonprofit organization needs to use the right technology to get more donations. The choice of technology will depend on the purpose of the nonprofit and the fundraising methods it uses.

Factors to Consider while Selecting a Tool for Online Donations:

• Price of the Tool: The cost of each tool varies. It is recommended that you stick to your budget, as far as possible, while selecting an online tool. However, make sure that the tool meets all the needs of the nonprofit.
• Ask your Donors: It is a good idea to take your donors into confidence and ask them which online tool they prefer. You can shortlist different online tools and survey to find out the preference of your donors and use this input to narrow down your search.
• Existing Technologies of the Nonprofit: In the tech age, your nonprofit must be using some technologies to support certain functions. It is recommended that you select an online donation tool that is aligned with the technologies currently in use. This will facilitate seamless integration of the tool.
• What do your Leaders say? In most cases, the leaders of the nonprofit are the final decision-makers. Hence, it is relevant that you consider the thoughts of your leaders regarding the selection of the tool before concluding.
• Setting up and Maintenance: An online tool may have all the features but may be difficult to set up or expensive/complicated to maintain. It is recommended that you select a tool that you can set up and maintain easily.
• Support: Check with the company providing the tool, whether they offer any kind of support for setting up and maintaining it. Some providers even train the internal teams of the nonprofit regarding the setup, running, and maintenance of the tool. Make sure that the online tool provider offers the kind of support you require for your nonprofit.

One of the best tools for online donations is iConnectx. This platform is customized for nonprofits and offers a host of features to support different fundraising methods. This software is reliable and easy to use. It offers all the features for end-to-end management for online donations.

If you are looking for the best online tool for your nonprofit, connect with the team at iConnectx!

It’s no wonder that fundraisers are looking for methods to make their labor more efficient. Every day, as a fundraiser, you wake up and strive to enlist more people to your cause. With just so many hours in the day and a seemingly endless need for funding for your cause, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed in the face of the world’s most pressing social issues.

Donor management software allows companies to centralize and manage all of their donor information. It’s geared at nonprofits, but it can be used for any type of fundraising, including schools, churches, and political groups.

What is a Donor Management Software?

Donor management software is a form of nonprofit software that facilitates understanding the donors which in turn maximizes donor relationships. The program organizes donor data, recognizes donor patterns, and provides recommendations to enhance the chance of obtaining future gifts as a tool for donor relationship management.

Donor management software, as the name implies, helps you to keep track of your contributors and their contributions. Not only can you trace your donations, but you can also discover more about the people who make them. You can save all of this important information in one place using donation software.

Benefits of a Donation Management

Donor Management Software is a single source of information that can be accessed by all members of your organization to gain valuable insights about your donors. It essentially replaces spreadsheets, which may quickly get cluttered and lead to inaccurate or missing data.

Most of your nonprofit’s admin activities can be done through the DMS or connected applications. A good DMS eliminates a lot of the manual data entry that is necessary with spreadsheets. Donor management software may also facilitate wealth screening to anticipate which contributors are most likely to contribute larger quantities of money. To also see how contributors are related to one another and to highlight giving behaviors. Donor management software, for example, may track when and how frequently contributors contribute, as well as an estimate when and how much they are likely to give in the future.

Donor management software enhances productivity by categorizing donations by giving levels and handling all donations in one place. All donations coming from different sources such as social media platforms, email campaigns, and charity events are available in DMS.

A donor management system can also assist you in analyzing data about your contributors and developing educated strategies for increasing donor satisfaction and retention. It may be used to build highly personalized communications, allowing you to convey the appropriate message to the appropriate individuals at the appropriate time.

The more information you have on potential, existing, and lapsed donors, the better your DMS will be able to assist your organization. Whether you aim to get new supporters, keep existing ones, or reactivate lapsed contributors, a DMS can help you better understand and interact with each of these groups, thereby increasing the amount of funds raised.

Must-have features of Donation Management Software

It’s important to remember that donation management software and customer relationship management (CRM) software are the same things. There are various donation software and CRM choices to select from, and at first look, they may appear to be quite similar. Small changes and missing features, on the other hand, might have a significant influence on the value you derive from your platform.

Here are 5 Features for Managing Donors that your Platform should Provide:

1. Donor Tracking

All of the vital information about your contributors, volunteers, sponsors, partners, and other supporters will be stored in donor profiles. Because donor data is the bedrock of the platform, it should be simple to access, add, and edit. The following is an example of a typical donor profile:

Name, age, address, phone number, and email address are all examples of contact information.

Donations, volunteer hours, email opens and clicks, and customer service interactions, for example, are all part of the engagement timeline.

Giving history: the date of your first donation, the date of your most recent donation, the average period between gifts, and so on.

Units of a family: Relationships with current, former, and potential donors

Donor segments: Use groups, lists, or tags to categorize contacts.

2. Donor Management

It’s not simple to raise money. It necessitates an awareness of your donors as well as maintaining track of the relevant data that provides you with useful insights. A donor management system may help you keep track of everything from donor giving histories and trends to mailing lists and fundraising campaign statistics by simplifying data management.

Donor management solutions, on the other hand, allow your team to import, edit, and communicate important information with appropriate employees in one central spot! Many solutions enable tracking and updating fundraising schedules, documenting and tracking donor interactions, and even assigning duties to particular team members simple for your fundraising team!

3. Setting Communication Pathways

Most donor management systems enable you to segment your contributors based on a variety of criteria, including interests, demographics, and giving history. You may tailor your messages and make particular fundraising appeals that are more appealing to each donor if you do this.

Donor management software may also help you enhance your overall donor care by being more consistent with your communication, being more precise with your thank-yous. Personalized correspondence demonstrates to your contributors that you care about them, which can only help you raise more money!

4. Online Giving

Fundraising features are included in the finest donation management software. We’re not talking about the types of forms you’d expect to see, such as contribution forms or fundraiser pages. We’re talking about things like “giving potential” scores, gift forecasts, and wealth intelligence, which are all quite important.

They should be able to assist you in determining who is most likely to donate and when. From people who are most likely to become big donors to the projected dollar amount of each donor’s next donation, you may obtain a full picture of your prospective giving and volunteer community.

This aids in the development of your entire fundraising plan, and it’s a game-changer for charities that rely on individual donations rather than sponsors, grants, and government funds.

5. Application Integration

Every donor management platform should allow you to link your existing software tools and optimize your entire operation. These connections allow you to seamlessly integrate all of your favorite platforms and websites, such as accounting software or email marketing software, with your donor software.

6. Identify Trends Amongst Donors

It’s simpler to recognize and follow donation patterns if you have a good understanding of all your donor data. Donor management software might also alert you to fresh giving possibilities that you would not have been aware of otherwise.

Most donation management software includes monitoring and reporting features to make it easier to keep track of everything year after year. The more information you collect, the more powerful the tool becomes for your team!

Choosing the Right Software for Your Nonprofit

Apart from the above essential features, when it comes to choosing software for your nonprofit, you need to consider a few things before finalizing.

• Capacity: Consider the size of your donor list as a starting point for your search. Some are designed to work with multinational corporations. When you’re beginning from scratch, it’s tempting to go for the biggest and finest option. Those added features and complex capabilities, on the other hand, might be intimidating rather than helpful.
• Free Trials: If your present system is very simple, or if segmenting and tagging are completely new to you, a demonstration is especially beneficial. Demonstrations of donor management software are typically the easiest method to see how a product may help your business.
• Cost: If your company can’t afford it, even the best software in the world won’t help. However, remember, that it is an investment for long-term benefits. A good donor management software will save you time, make your communications more efficient and successful, and help you connect with your donors better.

iConnectx is a powerful donation software, that gives you smart insights and can be customized for your nonprofit needs.

Non-profit organizations are working hard to achieve a good world, but it’s tougher to manage. In addition to the basic problems facing any organization, such as adjusting to new technologies and being up to date on accounting and regulatory needs, non-profits confront certain other industry-related obstacles.

This means that the problems of fundraising are more complex than we give them credit for. It cannot be attributed to a single fundraising challenge, but rather to a combination of variables that conspire to hinder your progress.

The nonprofit sector is changing. Prospects and donors change their behavior, their method of communicating, and their way of giving, of course, after some time. The patterns and effects of the contribution received by your organization might affect donations. Thus, issues impacted by trends are the largest and most unpredictable difficulty faced by nonprofits.

Let’s delve into the challenges that Nonprofits may face in future fundraising events:

High Expectation

Each donor wants to participate more in its non-profit cause.

For example, 59.8% of participants wish to know how much total money has been obtained following a fundraising attempt, 44.5% want to know how the collected cash will be utilized (source: https://ciof.org.uk/events-and-training/resources/challenge-events)

This is the problem for your non-profit – to keep contributors informed and hence delighted with tailored communications.

What’s important is to send messages they want to read — ones they expect. To accomplish so, the first step is to determine what type of communications your audience will get. Segmentation, Personalization, Original Content, and SMS are some of the effective solutions.

Increasing Competition

Nonprofit organizations must compete to attract funders’ attention and valuable hours of volunteer work.

Worse, grants and government money are being split among the qualified groups, resulting in less funding for each.

Non-profits must make extreme efforts to raise funds to match the competition. They expand the number, variety, and size of fundraising activities, as well as the amount of money they seek for.

The effects are not good news at all. An increased attempt to raise funds also leads to a rise in overhead expenditures. And, when contributors shift their support to other charities, you must actively engage in retention measures to keep them loyal.

Working actively on the retention of donors and the image of brands is without question fantastic ideas that maintain the attention of supporters.

However, revisiting your mission and vision statements is a simple approach to differentiate your organization. Make it as concrete as possible. It will assist you in reaching donors who are purely motivated by the cause. It will also help you distinguish yourself from other organizations that appear to be in the same field.

Election Cycle

Donors contributed 0,9% more to charity organizations in 2012 than they had previously given to the federal political campaigns. Donors that failed to provide political actions, on the other hand, lowered their donations to charity by 2.1% that year (source: https://institute.blackbaud.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/GIEY.pdf)

Although this trend is encouraging and works directly for you, you have to consider one aspect. Party members have a tremendous impact on donor behavior.

Partisan donors donate less to non-profits when the majority is not. So, even if a prospective contributor is ready to donate to your cause, he will give far less than he would if his party were in power.

Communication Barriers

Communication Hurdles are the primary struggle for many social purpose organizations. For example, many small and medium-sized organizations, together with a compelling issue description and solution, address the challenge in building strategic pitch decks.

While the majority of organizations, together with their communities, enable transformational projects, effective storytelling is tough to work out. Complex bids for grants are frequently often not available to organizations.

Moreover, we discovered that organizations, perhaps because leadership and/or contributors do not grasp the benefits that brand buildings have, are in general not able to or reluctant to expend on marketing and communications.

Lack of Government Funding

Many non-profit groups rely on the government’s help. It might be in the form of grants or a complementary arrangement or it can simply be a safety net in place to cover the gap in cases of shortages of funding.

Reducing national and municipal budgets implies that fewer are necessary. Most non-profits get less than they desire or need, while some do not have any financing.

Not Running it Like a Business

With so much attention on performance, your charity may find it difficult to remember that it is still a company with a bottom line that must be in the black. Non-profits typically place their social impact targets at the forefront and their corporate targets at the forefront, until there is enough to conceal what is going on.

Cost and social effect must be matched so that all efforts achieve genuine outcomes. You should utilize the proper tools to make sure your mission never loses track of its capacity/reach. This will make your employees and processes more flexible, adaptive, and ready to handle changing situations within the constraints of your resources.

Political and Social Unrest

2021 has been a tough year in terms of the political environment. Community involvement is critical for developing strong ties with people of the community and increasing support for your nonprofit’s purpose. It has become more difficult to engage with community members without community activities or athletic contests.

Non-profit organizations must find new methods to stay engaged. This gets more difficult when the country is experiencing severe political upheaval. Committing across various groups is often a failure due to strong personal opinions that lead to political and social disorder.

Fundraising in Post-Covid World

Event fundraising is important to many non-profits, and the forced pause that we’ve seen across the board has had a direct impact on donations. Social distance is expected to take place in a post-COVID environment, such that conventional financing for events may not have been typical for a long time.

Non-profit concerned that this funding gap will not be created and will leave a significant hole in financial projections. But that doesn’t always imply you need to cancel all your fundraising drivers, even if you cannot hold in-person events.

Online funding is a precedent that began before the COVID crisis. It is useful to continue using technologies that require individuals not to be in close physical touch. You will adjust your funding efforts to the new reality if you can take some of your fundraising drives virtually, such as generating money by way of online auctions or offering seminars.

These are times that have never happened before and we all learn as we walk. Successful demands for nonprofits must be integrated into a broader statement of mutual support, empathy, and solidarity in the following weeks and months.

And this must not be a transitory approach: Since nonprofits are dealing with ever-increasing personal loss and hardship, they can no longer continue business as usual.

The connection between supporters and supporters will become more and more dangerous. We will all need assistance, and we will all have to do everything we can to aid others.

How Can iConnectx Help You?

Our non-profit solutions allow you to get the finest possible fundraiser tools to help your teams do more: make a good contribution worldwide.

iConnectx is for people who desire not too expensive event software, however, it has all the capabilities needed to best advertise events and sell tickets. The platform is nicely built and is excellent for companies that desire considerable expansion and scalability.

Connect with the IConnectX team to get started with your online fundraising auction.

A successful fundraiser for a non-profit means increases in overall revenue. This is only possible when donors have a good experience, and you can communicate your organization’s goals.

A successful marketing campaign lures your donors to register for the fundraising event. If your event ticketing process is simple and positive, it will leave a good impression on the donor. Event ticketing software provides a smooth experience when registering for the non-profit fundraiser.

Whether the event is online or offline, event ticket management software is a must for your organization. Here we will look into what event ticketing is and the best event ticketing software for non-profit.

What is event ticketing software?

The sale and purchase of event tickets online using desktop and mobile event ticketing systems are known as event ticketing. Digital event ticket sales should be approached with forethought, regardless of whether your fundraising event is personal, online, or hybrid.

Your online event website represents the true difference between tickets and box office sales. The online event page will probably be your company’s first and only impression when someone decides if they want to attend or not.

Event organizers provide the groundwork for donors to say YES to attend your fundraising event with ease and enthusiasm.

5 Crucial Features in Event Ticketing Platform

1] Multiple Ticket Choices

You will sell more when you provide various ticket categories for your nonprofit events. This is because individuals desire something different from your event and actively search for tickets to suit their demands. It is necessary to be able to provide “tables” tickets for various prices and advantages. Your ticket software should also make it easy to provide group tickets with special add-ons such as a free drink voucher, a free T-shirt, backstage access, etc.

2] Safe and Easy Payment Process

A secure payment gateway is the golden rule of online payment for any web service. At the same time, it should be as simple and feasible.

To do it, make sure that various payment alternatives are included for the participants. You may add, for example, VISA, Amex, Bank Transfer, PayPal, etc. to allow purchasers to choose from. This can assist you to improve conversion rates and provide you advantages such as decreased withdrawal from your check-out.

As a client, you should also keep in mind the terms & conditions of having these payment gateways on the portal. Before you start utilizing a ticketing platform, always reading the fine print to make sure you are happy with the fees and payout schedules affecting your cost and income. Ideally, you want to collaborate with a ticketing company that charges a flat fee without hidden expenses per ticket.

Determine how often your money is transferred to you on the ticketing site. You must get as soon as possible the money you make from ticket sales, but many platforms have high payment limits and time limits.

 3] Integrated Marketing Tools

To increase the response rate, ticketing platforms should interact with other advertising and marketing apps. For example, your ticketing software should link with Facebook and Google AdWords so that you can track visitor behavior on your ticket sales page and retarget them with Facebook and Google advertisements. You can also automatically generate custom audiences and lookalike audiences from those who visit your sales tickets page by using the data from Facebook integration.

The ticket administration and promotional tools that can enable the platform to work with automated tools are of significant advantage for you.

4] Compatible with all Devices

The necessity of the hour is a mobile site. Whether it’s purchasing tickets via social media or planning the event jointly – today’s digital customers rely on their smartphones more. Therefore, the event booking site must be equipment-agnostic compatible with cross-browser. Meaning the participants should be able to book their tickets with a laptop, desktop, or portable device. Your event booking software should thus make sure it is compatible with all devices.

5] Quick Support System

When people buy tickets, what if individuals have issues or problems? What about your account configuration, ticket sales page design and integration, and event promotion? What if you have questions regarding your account? Does the ticketing software provide the assistance you need for your event? Make sure it does.

Importantly, ensure that the ticketing software provides help when and how you need it. Choose a platform that provides email and phone assistance seven days a week since you never know when you or your ticket purchasers may run into an issue or have a query.

Best Event Ticketing Software

1] iConnectx

iConnectX is a good alternative for people who desire not too expensive event software, however, it has all the capabilities needed to best advertise events and sell tickets. The platform is nicely built and is excellent for companies that desire considerable expansion and scalability. From online auction to seamless ticket administration, the firm can offer solutions. You may utilize the tools on their website to include your event list, encourage your events with links to your Facebook page, and sell tickets.

iConnectX is inexpensive to all nonprofits enterprises and is suitable for all sorts, sizes, and complexities of events.

2] Eventbrite

The purpose of Eventbrite is clear: connect live experiences with the world. They have the means to sell more tickets and know what is happening in the event business.

Eventbrite is an excellent choice to explore if you want something straightforward to use. There is, however, little opportunity for templates to be customized. One reviewer says that if you want to have complete control of the design, you cannot “remove” branding from Eventbrite.

3] CVent

Cvent is commonly regarded as one of the finest choices for event planners who want to sell and purchase. Cvent is software for important events and programs throughout the world that has been included. The program is complete, beautifully designed, and unbelievably easy to use. Whatever sort of event you conceive of, Cvent can help you obtain what you need. The program gives anyone who wishes to test it themselves a free demo.

4] Tix.com

Tix.com is a great alternative for anyone who seeks free and easy-to-use software. Software programs often charge you for the privilege that accomplishes the same job. Tix.com is a fantastic alternative for people who don’t want to pay, so you can easily put up your ticket page. The program is recognized for its particular guest commitment function, which makes it possible for event organizers to connect to the participants of the event.

5] Ticketbud

Ticketbud is ideal for people who want software that gives them full control of all aspects in the process of event management and the sale of tickets. It is a wonderful way to aid people holding large events and who have no restrictions on the type of sales they wish to perform. The program also provides daily payments, so event organizers get paid more quickly than most other ticketing sites.

6] Accelevents

Accelevents is a low-cost software package for people who wish to build a ticketing platform. It is renowned to offer a broad variety of features and possibilities.

Regardless of what type of fundraiser you wish to hold, Accelevents offers lots of assistance to event organizers. It is recognized to be equipped with numerous integrated tools that may help event organizers do fund-raising, silent auctions, contributions, and other initiatives.

Conclusion

When it comes to organizing an event, you have to understand that it follows the principle of being judged by the book. Don’t jeopardize it by utilizing a ticket application with no proper functionality. Look instead for a platform that provides several types of tickets, integrated advertising and marketing, built-in advertising tools, payment processing, and support. In this sense, event ticketing serves as your cover since it provides the initial impressions of your event and leverages all subsequent interactions. If the event registration profile you use coincides with the features you require, you do not have to doubt the success of your event.

Fundraising is your organization’s lifeblood. It’s what allows you to achieve your mission, help others and keep bringing in more resources to fund those efforts further.

But coming by those funds? That’s not easy feat.

Nonprofits face many challenges when it comes to fundraising. As fundraising is one of the main sources of revenue for nonprofits, not getting sufficient funds can be a major cause of concern for nonprofits. The challenges of fundraising are many and at times unique to the organizations. But it is equally true that fundraising has increased during the pandemic.

Nonprofits are playing an active role in helping out marginalized communities throughout the world. Whether it is a grassroots organization or an international organization, all the help provided has been extremely overwhelming.

So if things are this good for nonprofits, then why is it hard to fundraise?

Shouldn’t all the good work speak for itself and the willingness of people to give will be more than enough?

It should be easy to motivate them to donate. Unfortunately, that isn’t the case. Many nonprofits are struggling to stay above the water level as the economy takes a huge hit.

While the challenges of fundraising are complex and intricate, we will discuss multiple factors responsible for it. It is crucial to recognize and acknowledge the problems before we jump to find solutions. Let’s look at some of the more common fundraising challenges charities face nowadays – and how to overcome them and attract those dollars.

Here are some of biggest challenges every nonprofit face while fundraising:

1. Finding the Correct Target Market

The biggest hurdle to cross is finding the right platform to host the fundraiser and the people to target. Just like a business, a nonprofit also has its target market. The target market here means those people who will be moved by your work and motivated to donate to your cause. This only happens when your messaging or cause touches them emotionally.

For example, if your cause is about employing marginalized women in Australia, then it is a waste of resources to ask for fundraising from a USA businessman. He may want to donate to a cause in his country and support a local organization. Instead, if you target a women-led business in Australia, they may be more than willing to donate to your cause. And who knows, maybe offer some jobs to the marginalized women.

2. Telling your Story

Just like correct targeting, giving a clear message is another challenge in fundraising. A nonprofit is focused on many issues at once, but you have to narrow it down in such a way that the audience can comprehend the work being done.

Online fundraising efforts that aren’t based on an engaging narrative aren’t as effective as those that are. The key to a successful campaign is to tell your organization’s narrative in a way that appeals to contributors’ emotions and demonstrates the effect they can have. When people read meaningful tales, they are naturally encouraged to be giving, and stories encourage them to become more involved in your cause over time. Give your supporters exactly what they desire – how their money will be used, visual presentations, and clear organizational goals.

3. Reduced Donor Retention

Someone may give once, but donate twice or more regularly? That may be rather challenging. The value you can give to contributors is the key to maintaining them. What do they get in exchange for their contribution? Donors want to feel like they’re a part of the narrative. They dislike giving since they have no idea where their money goes or how it is used.

The most successful nonprofits include their contributors in the narrative. This may be as easy as sending out regular updates via email or social media on the job they’re doing and the lives they’re touching. Or it might be encouraging volunteers to serve with you, collaborating hand in hand in the job you’re doing.

4. Maintaining Trust in Nonprofits

The public’s trust is one of the most important elements that influence nonprofit donating. Unfortunately, when there are problems in the nonprofit sector, the media is ready to exploit the issue.

They focus on the few failing firms, which usually focus on weak leadership. As a result, individuals are discouraged from donating to charity in general. Many individuals assume that if one institution fails, all organizations are untrustworthy.

Nonprofits are meant to be the good guys. They have a goal, a vision to make the world a better place, rather than just creating money for the sake of making money. However, when it comes to receiving public funding, organizations must stick to the rules.

All this involves being as frank and open to your procedures and activities as feasible, avoiding cutting corners, and understanding your donors’ perspectives. If you don’t, you risk losing your supporters’ and audience’s faith and trust, which is the kryptonite of all charities.

5. Reaching a Standstill

Even after you’ve launched your internet fundraising campaign and gathered cash for a set period, there’s always the possibility that it may come to a halt. It can be discouraging to reach a deadlock with your fundraiser, but there are ways to re-engage your donors and keep the momentum going.

People will be more interested if you post updates about your fundraising as frequently as possible. If you convey that you’re getting close to your target, including an impact statement may even motivate further donations. This may be accomplished by segmenting your donor database and tailoring your approach to them depending on their giving history and your connection.

6. Limited Resources

During fundraising, there’s a typical trend: contributors don’t know that running a charity requires money. The majority of your resources are most likely flowing toward your main goal. Although you have enlisted the aid of volunteers, you still have a mountain of expenses to pay. There are operational expenses, administrative charges, development expenditures, and a million other things to consider.
Unfortunately, your donors are unaware of this. Misaligned expectations result from an inaccurate knowledge of the expenses of running a nonprofit. They expect to get more done for less money.

Tackling the root cause of the issue can be of help. It is the unrealistic expectations of donors. While this is a difficult road to cross, being transparent about your costs is certainly of help. Just because you don’t have a lot of money doesn’t mean you can’t get your name out there. Join forces with other local groups to benefit from each other’s skills and resources.

Co-host events and see if you can get any local media attention using free resources like social media. It may need some imagination, but the increased exposure will be well worth the effort in the end.

7. Asking Money Online

One of the most difficult aspects of internet fundraising is explicitly asking for money. Making requests might feel weird or self-promotional, but asking is very necessary if you want to raise the cash you need to work toward your purpose. Your fundraising will suffer if you bury your requests in your content or if you are unclear about what you are asking donors to do.

There are several channels where you may advertise your charity and raise cash in today’s world where everyone is online. Despite this, many organizations are struggling to stay up with technological advancements.

Instant interactions on social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram allow you to instantly establish a personal connection with your audience and help disseminate your message in real-time. However, having an amazing Instagram feed isn’t the only benefit of digital fundraising.

It’s all well and good to be on Twitter, but if you’re still collecting cash donations in a contactless-dominated market, you’re missing out on a whole new form of fundraising on the ground. There are several ways for charities and nonprofits to generate donations without relying on loose change, ranging from contactless payment technology to the development of new donation applications.

8. Finding New Donors

People are careful about who they give their money to. They do thorough research, they ask friends and family, and they reach out to others with their same values and ideals. If your name doesn’t come up in that research, they might not know you exist.

Though it can be hard to focus on marketing when you have such world-changing goals in mind, investing just a little time in social media or community events can make a big difference. You want your charity visible when someone’s ready and willing to give!

To overcome this situation and it may be best to use multiple ideas to make your fundraising campaign successful, you should understand what your donors expect from you and where will you find your donors. You can use storytelling to emotionally attract your donor by using email campaigns, community events, video campaigns and to build and retain donor interest.

9. Donor Retention

Someone might donate once, but getting them to donate twice or even more regularly? That can be pretty difficult. The key to retaining donors lies in the value you’re able to provide them. What are they getting in return for their donation?

Make sure you send them a personalized thank you note and keep them apprised of what their dollars are doing. Include them and commend them. Empower them to carry your message and bring in others to donate as well.

10. Lack of Resources

Most of your resources are probably going toward your overarching mission – as they should. But tight cash flow doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t get your name out there. Partner up with other organizations in your area and feed off each other’s strengths and resources.

Co-host events utilize free tools like social media and see if you can secure any local media coverage. It might take some creativity, but the added exposure will be well worth it in the end.

Great Storytelling for Fundraising

It’s very difficult to find new donors if you don’t have enough money to spend in marketing activities for your charity programs. Today, donors perform a thorough research before coming to any conclusion. A nonprofit can use 3 tips to improve through great storytelling for fundraising for ideas on their activity. Create a concrete story and be specific, use multiple channels which is suitable to target your donor and create emotional appeal to connect with your programs.

Fundraising is a forever challenge for the nonprofit industry. But it is also the industry that has survived and brought immense change in society. As our world changes, we are now moving towards online fundraising. Online fundraising comes with its challenges and having a team of experts handle it is helpful. iConnectX has a great team to assist with online fundraising and makes the process painless.

Joining a platform like iConnectX can also help put your nonprofit or charity on the map. iConnectX lets you raise funds in an easy, hands-off and, most importantly, freeway. Sign up today and see what we’re all about.