Just like the other sectors, COVID-19 has turned the nonprofit sector on its head. With around 5-10% of the US economy and 10% of the US employment dependent on nonprofit services, the pandemic has only made the country realize the power of this sector. And for good!

However, the way it has evolved during these unprecedented times is commendable. The nonprofit sector has, thus, given a path to a few trends that have made their way into 2021 and will continue to hold a firm grasp.

In this guide, we will dive deeper to understand 4 ways the nonprofit sector will evolve stronger in 2021.

1. Nonprofit Sector Will Turn Digital & Virtual

Because COVID seemed to be in no mood to leave us alone, the nonprofits eventually shifted from in-person to virtual events. While this shift was expected to be short-lived, the news is that it will continue over 2021 and beyond.

That’s precisely because digital events succeeded in blurring the geographical barriers, letting people (who otherwise wouldn’t have) participate.

Further, the lack of in-person volunteering has and will continue to make the virtual aspect of nonprofit marketing outshine the previous methodologies. This means that nonprofits will (have to) incorporate live-streaming, curate content for live events, install chat apps and promote virtual volunteerism.

This move will eradicate the largest barrier to volunteering i.e. volunteers citing busy schedules as an excuse. Volunteering from the comfort of their homes, thus, gives people their own space to bring about a difference in their own way.

Not just this, the focus will also shift a little more on digital communication, be it for meet-and-greets, fundraising, or likewise.

We might also see an evolution of virtual events. Here’s why!

Post a recent study from the Goodman Center that pointed out how 65% of the respondents raised concerns regarding videoconferences adding up to their fatigue, fear of virtual fundraising events becoming difficult cropped up alongside.

For example – For nonprofits that offer educational services, videoconferencing is not the best source.

Thus, the virtual event market is likely to experience a seachange and new tools will be introduced to support the online programs. This will enhance the experience of the attendees and donors.

2. High-Tech Technology Will Help Nonprofits Find Their Donors

Nonprofits will delve into high-tech solutions like

• Artificial Intelligence
• Blockchain for Fundraising
• Outcome Management
• Enhanced Communication

This will be done to find the right donors.

For Example Direct mails or social media conversations are the primary mode of communication for nonprofits to target their potential audience.

However, these are still too basic to make an impact. AI is expected to wave its magic wand and introduce tools like automation which will personalize the messages along with reducing the effort while increasing the impact. Cool, right?

But how can these tools be managed?

Well, it’s simple! These tools can be added through managed cloud services, thereby letting the nonprofits boost their services whenever needed.

With tools like chatbots, AI can really turn the tables in terms of conducting better and brighter campaigns/events; be it serving the community in whatever way.

Long story short, nonprofits will enhance their communication using the latest technology.

Mobile, for one, will become a hotshot in 2021; thanks to the mobile marketing techniques that are impressively improving at an exponential rate.

According to research from the Blackbaud Institute, mobile donations represented 26% of all online donations in 2019, up from just 9% in 2014.

Giving Tuesday has seen $2.47 billion in donations in 2020 which is much higher than $1.97 billion in 2019. It is interesting to note that most of these donations have been through mobile.

3. Nonprofits Will See More Partnerships, Mergers, and Joint Ventures

As every business does, even nonprofit organizations tend to grow their branches into different areas where they can expand their programs. While they have the resources to carry out the expansion of operations, they don’t really have the right knowledge to do so. A human can only know so much, after all!

Because a single entity can’t have all the specializations, taking into consideration the technological and demographic shifts, 2021 will see nonprofits forming joint ventures, mergers, and partnerships.

In other words –

• Some nonprofits will enter into strategic partnerships with other nonprofit organizations.
• Some nonprofits will form joint partnerships with for-profit organizations.
• Some nonprofits will consider mergers, either with other nonprofit or for-profit entities.

In 2021, we’ll witness nonprofits having concrete conversations regarding this with one another and also with the corporations to make a better impact.

Not just this, but many nonprofits are attuned to both private and public organizational goals and needs. This will make them create more public-private partnerships in 2021.

4. Grantmaking Will Become More Collaborative

Even before COVID-19 gave us all a blow, nonprofits were witnessing a shift in the grants process. Everybody related to this industry knows how crucial grants as resources are for nonprofits to fund and boost services that are offered to the communities.

But nobody worked towards making the grant process easier even after knowing how cumbersome it is for both the grantor and the grantee.

However, last year, we all saw how traditional grantmaking succumbed to pressure. This was because the demand for funds exponentially increased and grantors hustled to get grants out faster.

It is indeed commendable that nonprofits and Grantmakers could collectively raise their concern regarding this issue after all these years, thus coming up with a solution.

For Example: Outbound Funds Module is an open-source product that was built to help organizations disburse funds quickly and easily.

To enhance the collaboration between grantors and grantees, salesforce.org has built Grants Management as a complement to Outbound Funds. This has improved the grants experience right from the step of applying for the application to its distribution to its reporting.

Another example is The Malala Foundation. It records donor interactions through Grant Management and takes supporters on a convenient ride – right from the first step of initial conversation to the last step of donating. This not only lets them have an insight into how the donor’s journey has been but also the zeal to improve since they have the loopholes.

Thus, the relationship between grantors and grantees is likely to turn less transactional and more collaborative in 2021.

Some key changes that will be introduced are –

• Better processes
• Higher transparency
• More feedbacks

Wrapping Up

With the world adapting to the new normal after the pandemic, it is only natural that people will adapt to the changes introduced in the nonprofit sector.

Because the world demanded it, even iConnectX as a brand revamped itself and now offers all nonprofits a digital platform and the right technology to hold virtual events, raise funds, carry out auctions, and more.

The thing is one can’t really lag when there’s a shift in the needs of the community.

Nevertheless, all the trends that are bound to evolve in the nonprofit sector will only give it a push to achieve newer and better heights. Even though it might seem difficult to replace the personal touch of a call, technology will soon take over, turning automation into the new “personal.”

It’s all subjective.

In case you are struggling or ever struggle dealing with the digitalization/virtualization of nonprofits or any of the points discussed above, remember iConnectX is just a live chat/call away.

Online fundraising is a way through which nonprofit organizations raise money via the internet. It usually involves an online donation page and can include mobile giving or peer-to-peer fundraising, among others.

With an overall growth of 4.1% over the past year in online giving, 2021 has been the 6th consecutive year of growth for nonprofits dealing in online fundraising.

How is Online Fundraising the Major Source of Revenue?

Online Fundraising has its own pros when it comes to becoming the major source of revenue. Let’s discuss the same in detail.

1. Online Fundraising is for All Nonprofit Sizes

Contrary to the popular belief that shares how only bigger organizations have the chance to grow exponentially via online fundraising, it is quite the opposite in reality. Not just this but according to the yearly reports, small, medium, and large organizations grew their online giving by a stellar margin, thus reiterating how fundraising is apt for all nonprofits, whatever be their size. In fact, small organizations showed the greatest increase in online giving.

Because every type of nonprofit has ended up growing through online fundraising, the overall revenue it generates is humongous. No wonder it has fast grown up to be the major source of revenue.

2. Online Fundraising is for All Ages

According to the most recent data, the average donor in the United States is 64 years old and makes 2 charitable gifts a year. We see a shift here as younger donors are now actively engaging with nonprofits that have successfully tapped into online marketing.

Creating a strong online presence is, thus, of the utmost importance for any nonprofit so it can attract a younger, more tech-savvy audience.

Gone are the days when online fundraising used to only connect the supporters with a cause. It has successfully leveled up and now connects a person to another.

For Example, Barbells for Boobs, an organization raising money for breast cancer showcases the pictures and progress of fundraisers on their website. It’s their way of being authentic, thereby driving more funding.

Online fundraising has, therefore, nothing to do with age since anybody can be an active donor. However, it has everything to do with equipping the prospects with the right tools. Once they are empowered in this domain, they will not only support the cause but will also bring more contributors.

For example: When the organization Sing 4 America launched a campaign that was easy to follow, it activated 90% of their fundraising community. That’s the power of devising powerful campaigns. Besides this, 56 was the average age of the contributors that came forward to help.

Because age doesn’t matter here, the number of people who can come forward for the donations increases manifold and so do the contributions. This makes online fundraising a great revenue booster.

3.Online Fundraising is for All Sectors

According to the Giving USA report, all nonprofit subsectors have been witnessing year-over-year growth in online giving.

Most nonprofit subsectors even witnessed a greater increase in online fundraising receipts compared with overall giving.

Whatever be the sector – arts, culture, finance, education, etc. online fundraising works equally well in every domain, with slight fluctuations every now and then.

Some Facts About Online Fundraising

• More than a third of overall charitable giving happens in the last three months of the year, and around 30% of annual online gifts are made in December.
• Average gift sizes increase by as much as 50% in the last few days of the year.
• Female donors are more likely to donate because of social media marketing, while male donors are more likely to give because of email messages.
• Overall online revenue generated from online fundraising increased by 23% over the past year, up from 15%.
• Online donations to environmental and human rights-related missions grew the most, 34% and 37% respectively.
• Online donation pages had an average conversion rate of 8% on mobile devices last year, but the number of transactions completed through mobile devices increased by 50%.
• The number of donations completed through desktop browsers decreased by 10%.

Where Does Bulk of Revenue Come From For Nonprofit Funding Sources?

Nonprofit organizations demand tapping into newer ways of raising revenue every year. This is because they constantly need to try things out to reach their goal while keeping the cause intact.

While the themes on which the organization works varies with each passing year and so do the donors, what doesn’t change much is the source of funding.

4 ways that make online fundraising generate the biggest revenue.

Fees for Service

Whenever the word ‘nonprofit’ is uttered, a picture of donors offering their donations is conjured. However, what most of us fail to realize is that there indeed is a certain amount of income that comes from the fees that they charge for their services or from the sale of products.

Statistics show that the funds garnered from the service fees account for about 48% of the total revenue for nonprofit organizations.

2. Charitable Contributions

There are no two ways about nonprofits receiving funding from myriad sources. But the highest percentage of funding comes from individual charitable contributions.

Giving USA Report 2018 shows that in 2017, the total charitable contributions made in the United States were roughly $410.02 billion, whereby 71 percent of this amount was from individual contributors.

3. Corporate Philanthropy

Corporate philanthropy has become the talk of the town and a crucial aspect of nonprofit organizations. Consequently, these organizations are continuously making corporate partnerships that help in cause-related marketing and sponsorships.

Even companies motivate their employees to make donations. Thus, the nonprofits that connect with some companies are bound to benefit.

4. Government Grants

Nonprofit organizations receive their funds from all government levels, provided their cause is genuine. This results in easy media access, higher education, and public education.

Not only this, the expenses for the programs, events, and workshops that are conducted by the nonprofit organizations are covered by the government, especially when it comes to healthcare and human service.

How Can Your Nonprofit Organization Generate More Revenue?

1. Go Digital. Go Mobile-Friendly

Even though digital marketing is quick. Digital funding takes time. So even if you let yourself dive into the pool of digitalization, you’ll have to give funding some time. Take small steps. Create a website. Drive traffic. Build an email list.

2. Make Online Donations Easy

How? With the right software! You can create a fundraising page for your event attendees upon signup, personalize their pages, customize the CTA options, and more.

This is where iConnectX comes into play. It gives all nonprofits a platform to hold virtual events.

Besides this, when you have the right software, your physical event doesn’t need to be limited by geographical boundaries. You can easily expand participation beyond a city, a state, a nation, and more.

Fundraising software also opens the door for your event to raise “gifts on the go.” A mobile responsive landing page allows a donor to instantly connect with your cause and make a payment.

This can, thus, help increase the revenue of your nonprofit organization by leaps and bounds.

If you’re tempted to try out the industry’s best fundraising software, don’t forget to get in touch with iConnectX through a call or live chat.

We’d love to run you through it.

Are you someone who types “volunteer opportunities near me” every time you are by yourself? If yes, volunteers are needed for every second cause that comes into existence. However, we do understand the magnanimity of the right volunteers finding the right opportunities at the right time.

Thus, iConnectX has compiled a list of 10 places you can volunteer at along with the list of organizations you can consider.

Let’s begin with the former

What Volunteer Works Near Me Can Choose?

1. Local Public Library

Public libraries are desperate to find volunteers for a couple of jobs. For example, volunteer opportunities with LA County Library, one of the United States’ largest library systems, including

• Cleaning and sorting library materials
• Conducting events for kids like storytelling
• Offering technical support
• Raising funds for library programming

2. Local Community Center

While each city has at least one community center, many big cities have multiple, to cater to specific audiences like youth or elderly. No matter what, local community centers need volunteers to carry forth worth. For Example, Chicago Youth Centers looks out for volunteers to

• Mentor and help students with their homework
• Supervise after-school activities
• Conduct arts and crafts events
• Maintain gardens and specific playing areas

3. Animal Shelters

Does your love for animals know no bounds? You can now easily offer aid and comfort to the ones in need. All by being a part of animal shelters like Animal Humane Society and the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).

The activities that will you be doing if you volunteer are as follows

• Cleaning cages
• Dumping litter
• Comforting animals
• Organizing adoption events

Also Read:Does Volunteering Makes Any Difference

4. Food Banks

Food is one of the basic human needs and if you want to do more than pay money at the coffee shops for people who would need it, you would have to volunteer for it. To give an example, the Atlanta Community Food Bank invites volunteers to:

• Inspect and package food donations
• Supervise & restock open-to-the-public food shelves
• Liaison with partner agencies that distribute donated food
• Lift loads as heavy as 40 pounds

5. Human & Civil Rights

If you feel that more needs to be done for

• Immigrants and refugees
• LGBTQ community
• Members of racial and ethnic minority groups
• Individuals struggling with addiction
• Individuals who can’t afford legal representation

Then, you must volunteer yourself for work that uplifts this section. The work that involves this as follows

• Offering counseling and therapy
• Offering pro-bono services
• Offering technical, financial, or creative services

6. Local Recreational Parks

If you are wondering what for your local recreational parks need volunteers, it’s for

• Seasonal events – Spring, Fall, etc.
• Leaf collection
• Picnic area maintenance and more.

For example, the Arlington, Texas Parks & Recreation Department offers volunteer works that include

• Coaching recreational league teams
• Helping with cleaning up the park
• Organizing events at the parks
• Maintaining garden beds

7. Political Organizations

If you volunteer at a political organization, you will be asked to do jobs like

• Taking up the maintenance of financial workload
• Organizing fund-raising events
• Joining crime-reduction groups
• Organizing rallies to educate people

8. Nursing Homes

While nursing houses have enough resources and staff to carry the basic activities, they need volunteers to fill in roles where they can

• Socialize with the patients
• Help them with the exercises
• Ward off patient’s loneliness

For example, Episcopal Homes, a Minnesota-based care facility chain, needs volunteers to

• Teach basic technology skills
• Help patients exercise
• Deliver mail
• Facilitate social activities!
• Offer companionship

What Organizations offer Volunteer Opportunities Near Me?

Now that we have tackled the first part, let’s move on to the other that deals with the organizations that offer volunteer opportunities.

Categorizations based on volunteer opportunities have been made. They are as follows

General Volunteer Works

The following are some general volunteering options that offer umpteen volunteer opportunities based on your location, interest, and more.

1. Idealist
2. Points of Light Foundation Volunteer Centers
3. Volunteer Match
4. All for Good

US Government-Sponsored Volunteer Opportunities

These government-based volunteer opportunities offer both domestic and international volunteer works.

1. Peace Corps
2. AmeriCorps
3. Senior Corps
4. Volunteer.gov
5. Ready

Apart from the traditional two-year volunteer option in the Peace Corps, there are more short-term options given. AmeriCorps, a US-based version of Peace Corps, also pays a stipend under a full-time opportunity. While the Senior Corps offers volunteer works for people above the age of 55, Ready focuses on emergencies such as fire, flood, and hurricanes.

Also Read: Ideas for Empowering Your Volunteers to Make the Most of Holiday Fundraising

Global Volunteer Works

1. Global Service Corps
2. Global Volunteer Network
3. United Nations Volunteers
4. Volunteer International
5. World Volunteer Web
6. Transitions Abroad
7. Geo Visions
8. Go Volunteering
9. Volunteer World

The first two are global networks that match students and families with worldly projects. Choose the third organization for UN-affiliated opportunities and others for global volunteering opportunities in general.

Students and Youth Volunteer Opportunities

Since students and youth feel more passionately towards a cause, the opportunities for them are galore. Finding the right one, however, is the most difficult. Given below are certain opportunity-offering organizations that you can consider.

1. Do Something
2. National Youth Leadership Council
3. Youth Service Opportunities Project
4. Youth Volunteer Corps of America
5. City Year
6. Generation On

Volunteer Works for Executives and Professionals

Be it mentoring a mentee or training the executives, these organizations cover it all.

1. Financial Services Volunteer Corps
2. Health Volunteers Overseas
3. SCORE
4. Taproot Foundation
5. Catcha Fire
6. Executive Service Corps

Volunteer Opportunities for Older Adults and Retirees

1. Create the Good – AARP
2. Senior Corps, Foster Grandparents (For volunteers who are 55 and over.)
3. Experience Corps – AARP (Tutoring in schools)

Some of these organizations also offer ways to connect virtually through phones or computers. Many of the opportunities offered by these organizations can be clubbed under “micro-volunteering” as they can be done in a very short duration of time. Besides, because most organizations look for youth to support their cause, this section becomes important for older people to work towards something they truly feel about.

Virtual and Micro-volunteering

1. Catcha Fire (It provides virtual volunteer opportunities for skilled volunteers.)
2. Volunteer Match (It has a well-stocked virtual volunteer list.)
3. Help from Home (It focuses on virtual, micro-volunteer actions.)

Volunteer Works with Specific Interests

1. Amateur historians (For history buffs who can make historical documents accessible by collaborating with The Smithsonian’s)
2. Birdwatchers (For people inclined towards tracking bird populations and migration patterns.)
3. Weekend astronomers (For those interested in contributing to mapping the skies at Zooniverse.)
4. Virtual globetrotters (For people who want to do the greater good.)

Volunteer Opportunities During Special Days and Weeks

If your system picks “find volunteer opportunities near me” when you put in the keyword “volunteer”, you should know how some days promote volunteering opportunities with great pomp and show. Some of those are

1. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (3rd week in January)
2. National Volunteer Week (3rd week in April)
3. National Day of Service and Remembrance (September 11)
4. National Family Volunteer Day (Saturday before Thanksgiving)

Wrapping Up

It does not take much to start giving back to the society that has been doing so much for your growth. Investing time and efforts for a cause you really feel for oozes out happy vibes. And you will be surprised how volunteer opportunities will flood you with options once you are serious about the same.

However, if you are facing issues with finding the right organization, iConnectX runs networking programs that connect the right nonprofits with the right volunteers, find the list of charities to volunteer. To know more, you can either give us a call or join the live chat. We will love to offer you our best possible assistance.

Our brains are wired in a way that the moment the word ‘volunteering’ pops, we imagine tending to the needs of the elderly, tutoring the underprivileged, and likewise. All in person!

However, it’s time we change this because Virtual Volunteering is now the talk of the town and this trend is here to stay for the good. But what is this new thing people call Virtual Volunteering? Let’s find out.

What is Virtual Volunteering?

Virtual volunteering or online volunteering is when someone donates their virtual time and skills to an organization or an institution without physically being present at the site. All you need is an internet connection to deliver your skills from the comfort of your home!

Virtual Volunteering proved to be a boon during the pandemic, and had it not been for the coronavirus, this trend would have still been at a nascent stage. But now, online volunteering has not just bloomed, it quite literally has a garden of its own.

Also Read: How to Create a Virtual Auction – The Ultimate Guide to Set Up

And why not? With the world adjusting to ‘working from home’ scenarios, volunteering virtually for a cause that is close to one’s heart makes perfect sense. Moreover, this shift was important to keep the economy of the country up and running, and for the nonprofits that mostly depend on volunteer work.

The Importance of Online Volunteering Opportunities

While the pandemic opened the Pandora Box of problems, the way online volunteering opportunities has put most of them back is commendable. The list of how it has benefited the e-volunteers (digital volunteers or virtual volunteers) is huge. Some of the noteworthy benefits are:

Flexibility

In online volunteer work, you are your own boss and can work at your own pace and time. There can nothing be better than this! This way, one not only ends up developing time-management skills but has something concrete to add to the resume. What more; the search engines designed to offer virtual service opportunities enable the volunteers to filter the opportunities as per the time they want to devote.

Skill-based

You only have to present your skills. You are not required to dress up and represent the firm. This means one can be a night owl or a morning person as per the mood. Not only this, between the two focus points i.e. a virtual volunteer and an online virtual opportunity, there are absolutely no restrictions that prevail like physical deformities, distance, dirty politics, etc. If you are skilled, you will lead no matter what!

Global

You can fully explore the sea of online virtual opportunities as you are no longer restricted either by distance, location, or area. Instead, taking up online volunteer work for a new, far-off location will only enhance your skills, better your sense of understanding, and teach you new things. Now, what can be better than this? You are enjoying and learning at the same time. A total win-win situation.

Also Read: Virtual Fundraising Ideas for Nonprofits – Online Events

Online/Virtual Service Opportunities

Now that we know the importance of virtual volunteer opportunities, let’s delve a bit deeper into what sort of service opportunities can one find in the virtual world. Some of them are as follows:

• Translating/Transcription of documents
• Proofreading documents/translations/transcripts
• Researching on topics for content management
• Designing a website/inner pages/landing pages
• Writing press releases and proposals
• Designing SMO posts to keep people engaged
• Organizing events to create awareness
• Designing a newsletter or a publication
• Providing expertise – legal, financial, business
• Counselling people
• Mentoring the mentees
• Managing accounts
• Developing strategic plans for the firm’s growth
• Creating logo
• Raising funds for a cause
• Empowering the volunteers to make the most of fundraising
• Tutoring kids

Please note that these virtual service opportunities are just the tip of the iceberg. The online volunteer opportunities offered in the real world are much more diverse than this and the number is a lot higher too. You can type in keywords like “online volunteer opportunities” or “virtual online work for nonprofits” or anything that you deem fit to search online. If not, we have a ready reckoner of resources for you to refer to in case you are falling short of virtual volunteering ideas.

Some Volunteer Resources That Can Help You Out

• AARP’s Create the Good
• Idealist.org hub of Covid-19-related virtual volunteer opportunities
• All for Good, a service of the Points of Light Foundation
• The United Nations posts global volunteering opportunities
• Volunteer Match’s Covid-19 hub

Virtual Volunteer Events

Now, what if you choose to be a part of an organization that needs to raise funds for a cause? An event will have to be put into an order where people can bid (if it’s an auction) or donate (if it’s a donation), right?

And clearly, in-person donations and auctions are something nobody would prefer, especially now when the world is wreaking havoc, thanks to the pandemic. But just because in-person events are off the table doesn’t mean organizations can’t raise money!

It’s here that virtual volunteer events fill in the gap. However, how online volunteer events work is a thing to discuss.

How Do Virtual Volunteer Events Work?

The steps involved in making any virtual event work are as follows:

1. Choose the right platform for the online event to raise funds for nonprofit
2. Promote the virtual event as much as possible
3. Connect with the supporters
4. Follow-up with the supporters

Among all these points, nothing really works if the foundation is flawed. Choosing the right platform/ software for the virtual event is, thus, the base that can make or break the entire event.

The platform should be such that it is user-friendly, allows easy payments, provides notifications, and encourages participation.

How to Choose the Right Platform for Virtual Events?

• Choose an all-in-one platform that has everything in place.
• Go for the technology that offers virtual networking.
• Look if the platform offers additional insights and tools.
• Pay attention to the user-experience the platform offers.

One of the best platforms worth considering is iConnectX as it not only encourages online participation, it also fulfills the above criteria. And any platform that fulfills the same is bound to make any virtual online event a total success.

Wrapping Up

Virtual volunteering is, thus, a process that encompasses a volunteer helping an institute from the comfort of the home using skills that are delivered online.

While the benefits of online volunteering are umpteen and can easily be understood, finding online volunteer opportunities are a tad bit on the tougher end. And what is even tougher is its execution part. Because we understand the entire scenario, resources wherefrom opportunities can be found are shared along with the platform you can use to carry on with virtual events.

Long story short, going ahead with an online event can be tricky but not when you have the right software. iConnectX is one of the best solutions for the same. Being a leading event management platform, one can easily promote, tally registrations, sell tickets, and do a lot more to make the online event a success.

Get in Touch with Us

If you still have how(s), why(s), and what(s) making you feel dizzy, we are here to help you out. All you need to do is get in touch with one of our team members by either giving us a call or by joining the live chat.

The fundraising landscape has undergone a complete transformation during the last year. These changes were probably imminent, but the pandemic has speeded the process. A phenomenal rise in the number of donors worldwide coupled with online donations becoming the preferred mode of giving have given nonprofits food for thought on adapting to the changing scenario!

Although 2020 was not a year to write home about, it has been a year that has witnessed a boost of nearly 7.5% in year on year giving in the first six months. (Source: Report by Fundraising Effectiveness Project) It is also encouraging to observe that the first six months of 2020 also saw an increase 12.6% in new donors and the donor retention rate surged by 1.8%. (Source: Philanthropy News Digest )

It is heartening to observe the growth in the attitude among people across different demographics globally to donate in different ways to charities amid the pandemic. However, when an individual or an organization donates, they would like to make sure that they are connecting with genuine nonprofits. Hence, the onus is entirely on the nonprofit to use the right resources and establish its creditability. An online fundraising platform is the best way for a nonprofit to make itself visible in the digital world.

Also, the nonprofit should ensure that it offers and experience that meets the expectations of its users.

What do the donors want?

• Information about the nonprofit before they donate.
• They want simple and secure donation methods.
• They want to feel a part of a charity initiative.
• There are some who also want their act of philanthropy to be in the public eye.

Fundraising platforms are the best solution for nonprofits to cope with the ever-changing demands of the audience.

A fundraising platform offers a central source to manage different aspects of online fundraising. It helps manage multiple donors, organize campaigns, offer forms, facilitate credit card donations and many more.

When you search for best fundraising websites on Google, you will find a list of names such as Classy, Fundly, Donately, etc. And, when you look at the detailed information about each one, you will find that each one offers features that might be just right for your nonprofit! So, which one do you choose?

Selecting a fundraiser can be quite overwhelming!

Let me make it easy for you by breaking it into small bites:

Step 1: Establishing the Purpose of the Platform

First, you need to find out why you need a fundraising platform-what are you trying to achieve through the platform? For instance, is your platform for attracting new donors or is it to move your existing donors to an online space? Each of such objectives warrant different features of the fundraising platform. Therefore, if you are clear with the purpose, it will make it easier for you to shortlist relevant platforms.

Step 2: Determining Fundraising Strategies for your Nonprofit

Each charity adopts different fundraising strategies such as crowdfunding, charity auctions, peer-to-peer fundraising, etc. There is specific software that supports each of these strategies. Therefore, you can select the platforms that offer the relevant software for your purpose. It may also happen that you may require a combination of software. It is recommended that you choose a platform that supports most fundraising strategies. Also, it should have the flexibility to support additional needs at a later stage. Identifying the relevant software further narrows down your search for the best fundraising platform.

Step 3: Comparing Online Fundraising Platforms

You can compare the different platforms based on the following criteria:

1. Support Offered: Make sure to check the support and training offered for setting up and running the online fundraising platform.

2. Flexibility to Customize: It is also important to choose a platform that can be customized for your nonprofit. it should be easy to customize the forms, etc. with your logo and color scheme so that it is easy for your audience to identify your brand.

3. Ease of Use: Choose a platform that is easy for you to set up and run while offering an excellent experience to your users.

You need to make donating simple for your users. Therefore, choose a fundraising website that is user-friendly and easy to navigate. Also, make sure that your online donation platform offers plenty of secure donation options to users.

Make sure that the fundraising platform is responsive and allows donations through mobile as well.

4. Budget: By now you would have shortlisted the best online fundraising platforms for your nonprofit. Most of these nonprofit fundraising websites will likely offer comparable features. You can filter out the online fundraising platforms based on your budget. The cost of the platform is a vital factor for selection. While you must not compromise on the features required, you need to ascertain that the cost of the online fundraising platform is within your budget. It is recommended to conduct a cost-benefit analysis before deciding on the best online fundraising platform. Also, bear in mind that you might have to bear additional expenses for add-ons for some fundraising platforms.

Step 4: Finalizing

Once you have narrowed down your options to 2-3 fundraising platforms for nonprofits, check the reliability and performance. The best way to verify these aspects is by looking at the reviews and testimonials posted on the site. You could even connect with users and ask them about their experience with the platform. This will help you finalize the best online fundraising platform for your nonprofit.

This is a brief overview of how you can choose the best online fundraising platform for your nonprofit.

One of the best fundraising platforms for a nonprofit is iConnectX. This platform has all the features to support end-to-end event management, secure donations, forms, etc. iConnectX is a platform that has a long history in the field of philanthropy. It has been a part of several nonprofit initiatives over the years supporting both offline and online nonprofit events. The proven track record of iConnectX makes it an ideal fundraising platform for nonprofits. This platform supports a myriad of online fundraising strategies such as online auctions, crowdfunding, and many more.

iConnectX is a platform that has evolved over the years adapting to changing circumstances adopting innovative technologies. It has kept pace with technology to ensure that it offers its users the best experience while participating in philanthropic activities. It is a technologically advanced platform with regular updates to offer users the best features.

As 2020 comes to an end and we see 2021 on the horizon, it is time for nonprofits to gear up and plan their fundraising for the coming year. 2020 has taught us the important lesson of being “agile”, in other words, having the ability to adapt to the circumstances. Nonprofits cannot afford to ignore the importance of strategizing according to external circumstances.

Fundraising for 2021 can be planned based on 3 factors:

Successful fundraising strategies adopted in 2020: Fundraising strategies have undergone major changes in 2020. Many nonprofits have been quick to respond and have come up with innovative and successful solutions. Fundraising trends during COVID can be a good starting point for planning for nonprofits.

Fundraising trends for 2021: The emerging fundraising trends for nonprofits will evolve from top nonprofit trends of 2020. These will give the foundation for nonprofits to innovate and build on for the coming year.

Back up strategies to cope with uncertainties: 2020 shocked the entire world with something totally unprecedented. We have now come to realize that no amount of planning can secure us from an unpredictable future. Having an “agile” approach is no longer an option but is mandatory. In other words, fundraising for non-profits must ensure that they are able to adapt to sudden changes at any stage.

With the pandemic dominating 2020, the world has shifted from offline to online! What this means for nonprofits is that fundraising events have become virtual, donations have become online, and connecting with the audience is now through digital media.

Let us now look at the impact of digital fundraising trends on nonprofits

Virtual Events

Virtual events have replaced in-person events in 2020. Needless to say, nonprofits need to ensure that they are fully equipped to host and manage virtual events. What this also means is that they will need to think of innovative ideas to offer their audience a delightful experience. This is more challenging in a digital space when compared to in-person events.

However, virtual events drastically reduce the expenses involved in organizing the event by cutting down on costs of the venue, travel, and accommodation expenses of attendees, etc.

Leveraging Social Media

Social media has been a strong force even before 2020. However, in 2020 with most people being “locked down” the number of users has surged. 3.81 billion active social media users have been recorded in 2020. (Source: Backlinko ) A whopping 63% of the world’s population is active on social media when looking at an eligible audience aged 13+ years. (Source: Backlinko )

Nonprofits need to leverage the power of social media to connect to their audience. All platforms Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc. hold potential. Social media campaigns with regular posting is a must.

It is also important to offer your donors to donate directly through social media platforms.

Gen Z donors

It is interesting to observe a rise in the number of Gen Z donors in 2020. Gen Z is people who are born in 1996 and later. The marketing strategies for connecting to this segment of the audience will have to be different. A majority of these donors will be found on Instagram and social media marketing strategies will need to the tailored to them.

Email Marketing

Many people tend to believe that email marketing is dead. But contrary to this belief, email marketing has become more powerful than ever in recent years. 76% of marketers say that email is the single most effective way to drive registrations. (Source: Markletic)

This is mainly because of the changing audience behavior. Personalization is the key and email marketing is undoubtedly the best way to offer it. Email marketing helps establish a one-to-one relation with the audience. Email marketing is undoubtedly one of the most important fundraising trends to focus on for your charity in 2021.

Video Marketing

To stand out amid the chaos on social media, video marketing is an effective tool. Videos with quality content are what will help nonprofits connect with their audience. Cisco predicts that videos will constitute 82% of online traffic in 2021. Videos are ideally suited for nonprofits because they can convey emotional and personal appeals effectively.

Live streaming is another powerful marketing strategy. Data reveals that over 150 million people watch live stream videos monthly.

Recurring Giving

Online giving has become popular due to the pandemic. Nonprofits need to focus on offering a recurring online giving option to their audience. Recurring giving provides the donors a better experience because they feel connected to the nonprofit and that they are making a difference. And, the nonprofit can create a predictable revenue stream that is immune to external factors to an extent.

Nonprofits could think of looking at traditional fundraising techniques such as donation forms, peer-to-peer fundraising, and crowdfunding, etc. to drive recurring giving.

Nonprofits and for-profit companies working together

2020 has shown an emerging trend of partnerships between for-profits and charities to work towards a common goal. In 2021 this trend is expected to become more predominant as organizations look to add purpose to their business model. Nonprofits gain by borrowing from for-profits because it promotes a sustainable and scalable growth model.

Fundraising Platforms

One of the most important online fundraising trends is the use of fundraising platforms. These platforms simplify the process of organizing fundraising events. 89% of businesses using event technology save approximately 200 hours per year. 20% of businesses see 360 or more saved per year. (Source: Bizzabo 2019)

There are different types of platforms available for hosting such events. These platforms offer different features such as event registration, hosting, marketing, analytics, and many more. These platforms help event hosts plan the event and measure the ROI of the event using different metrics.

One of the best event management platforms available for hosting fundraising events is iConnectX. This is a platform that provides the event managers end-to-end event management features. Event hosts can easily connect with their audience and organize events that function without a hitch and delight the audience. iConnectX is a platform that is a well-known name in the world of philanthropy. It has several features that are tailored to the needs of non-profits.

In Conclusion

The good news we hear in the last few months of 2020 is the vaccine is now available. However, it will take time for things to come back to normalcy. Besides the concept of “normal” is likely to change to a “new normal.” Probably in the new normal, there will be a mix of virtual and in-person interactions. However, one certainty is that digital interactions are here to stay. And, in such a scenario technology will have a vital role to play.

We are in the last few days of 2020. What a year it has been! While we awaited the year to bring us some of the most revolutionary technologies, the year has brought us the pandemic! However, the overall change that was expected has almost remain unchanged-in the sense that the concept of normal has been re-defined!

We have now reached a stage where the phrase “new normal” is something that we are learning to accept! The new normal has a lot to do with transitioning to a digital space where online working, online education, online shopping, virtual meetings, virtual events are now becoming a way of life!

While many of you might be familiar with the other aspects of the virtual world, the concept of “virtual events” might come as a surprise!

Wondering how an event can be held virtually?

Without any further ado let’s get into the nitty-gritty of a virtual event:

What is a virtual event?

A virtual event is one in which the attendees interact in a virtual space instead of a physical location. It is held through webinars and webcasts. These events offer the look and feel of a physical event.

A traditional event is hosted at a specific venue. All attendees arrive at the venue at a fixed time and they have discussions in a physical space. On the other hand, in the case of a virtual event, the interaction is in a virtual space.

Although virtual events may seem very different compared to a traditional event. The planning and hosting process is quite similar.

Best Practices for a Virtual Event

Step 1: Define your objective

Before you plan your event, you need to identify the reason for holding the event. Are you trying to create awareness for your brand, training, or focusing on lead generation? Your objectives for the event must be in sync with the goals of your organization.

Step 2: KPIs

Identify the KPIs before you start with the planning process. These are metrics that will help you understand whether your event was a success or not. Based on the data collected post the event, you can assess the ROI after the event is over.

Step 3: Identify your Audience

• Who will attend your event & why?
• What are the demographics of your audience?
• Which social media platforms do they use?

Prepare a list of such questions to understand your audience and customize your event according to their needs.

Step 4: Choose the Type of Event

Virtual events can be hosted in different ways. Choose the one most suitable for your event based on the nature of the event and its purpose.

Types of virtual events are:

• Virtual conference
• Hybrid Events
• Internal Training
• Livestreamed Keynotes or panel discussions
• Virtual Exhibitions

Step 5: Details of Presentation

You need to create the event based on the specific needs of your audience. Therefore identify the expert in the field who will present. Also, draft the content relevant to your audience.

Step 6: Tech Set-up

Make sure that you have all the video conferencing tools in working condition.

Choose the best event technology platform.

Integrate the attendee data between the event technology system and the virtual event platform.

Ensure that you have a backup so that the event does not get interrupted due to connectivity issues.

Identify the tools for the attendees to network and schedule appointments.

Step 7: Finer Details of the Event

Type of event-live/on demand/mix?

For how long the on-demand sessions will be available to users after the event is over.

Will you charge a fee for the event or will it be free of charge?

Step 8: Registration

Determine the date and time for the event before asking your attendees to register.

Ensure that you have a robust online registration tool for your attendees to register. </>

The registration tool offers vital details such as personal information of the attendees, their preferences, and many more. This information helps to create customized events. Additionally, the registration tool can be used to collect payments if needed.

Step 9: Promote the Event

Leverage all marketing channels such as social media, mail marketing, and other channels to effectively connect with your audience.

Create a buzz on relevant channels to attract the attention of your audience. Encourage them to register. Offer incentives if possible, etc.

Step 10: Guiding your Potential Attendees

There are several technology options available for hosting virtual events. There is a possibility that the members of your audience may not be familiar with the technology that you are using. It is a good idea to help them by offering a guide that explains how to access the event sessions, etc.

Step 11: Hosting the Event

This is when the actual event takes place. Before the scheduled time of the event prepare a checklist and ensure that the entire setup is working seamlessly. During the vent, make sure to record it. Also, facilitate hassle-free communication between participants by resolving any technical/non-technical hitches.

Step 12: Engaging Attendees

Engage your audience by making the sessions interactive by including polls, Q&A, etc. where the members of the audience can participate, and their interest is sustained.

Another vital aspect of creating an engaging event is the duration of the event. While the duration of a physical event is ideally 60 minutes, it is difficult to hold the interest of the audience for 60 minutes in a virtual event. Therefore, keeping a traditional event as a yardstick, you can plan your virtual event around 15-20 shorter. For instance, if your physical event is planned to last for 60 minutes for a specific topic, schedule your virtual event for approximately 45 minutes.

Step 13: Data collection

Make sure to gather all the relevant data during and after the event. This is valuable information that helps evaluate the success of the event, qualify leads, identify gaps, etc. These inputs can help to enhance the quality of future events.

This is an overview of how a virtual event can be organized so that it is beneficial for the attendees and the host.

Virtual events have gained popularity in recent times due to restrictions imposed to restrict the spread of the coronavirus.

Although virtual events have become popular during COVID times, people are now realizing the benefits they offer, and they have the potential to be adopted even post COVID.

Here is a quick comparison between a traditional and virtual event:

Conclusion</strong >

Therefore, we can conclude that a virtual event is cost-effective and convenient for both the host and the attendees. However, on the flip side, it does not offer an opportunity to network as effectively as a physical event. But, if we compare it with the positives it offers, it is surely a great option, especially during current times.

One of the most vital constituents for a successful virtual event is the event management platform being used. While choosing an event management platform, make sure it has the following features:

• It should offer end-to-end event management solutions.
• It should be easy to use and should have the flexibility to be customized for different types of events.
• The platform should facilitate live and on-demand delivery of the content.
• It should offer audience engagement tools.

One such event management platform which offers all these features, and more is iConnectX! It is a platform that is ideal for hosting non-profit events such as online auctions, fundraisers, and many more! iConnectX offers end-to-end management of your event by providing all the essential tools and support to host a successful event.

Connect with iConnectX for the best event experience!

Online virtual fundraising for nonprofits is currently trending as an alternative to traditional fundraising tools. As people are more inclined towards online activity due to the current health concerns and many other reasons; saving time, money, effort, and overall, it is easier to participate, the majority of fundraising activities are taking place on web and mobile platforms. Online virtual fundraising for nonprofits has witnessed a year-over-year growth, according to the NP Source report, online giving increased 10.6% from 2017 to 2018 and overall online revenue increased by 23% in 2017, increasing from 15% growth the previous year. With online fundraising gaining popularity over the years, we at iConnectX anticipate that it will continue this growth into the future.

Most nonprofits are researching the idea, but not ready to take the full advantages of virtual fundraising. Online platforms such as iConnectX have brought you full-service online fundraising tools with some fresh and innovative approaches to raise funds for nonprofits, especially during the current coronavirus pandemic. Utilize a platform such iConnectX and use the community to participate in online fundraising using the available tools.

Peer-to-Peer Fundraising

Peer-to-peer fundraising, one of the significant things that a fundraising platform such as iConnectX can do, is help with online donations. Leveraging the community of professionals and organizations, is one of the best fundraising ideas out there. Encourage your networks to set up personal fundraising pages through iConnectX to fundraise for your nonprofit. If a donor creates a fundraiser page, they build legitimacy for your cause. In fact, peer-to-peer fundraisers result in more donations with regular participation in causes and programs.

Nonprofits and their sponsor professionals must encourage their networks to build peer-to-peer fundraisers for the charities. Use an online platform like iConnectX to set-up and manage a fundraiser page for them.

Set up a demo of iConnectX with one of our team members so you can see how quickly a peer-to-peer fundraising campaign can be set-up for your virtual fundraising event.

Also Read: Fundraising for Coronavirus: Create Virtual Events

Online Donations

The ease of creating an online donation page on iConnectX not only encourages you to donate or but also assists you to promote donation from your advocacy site, your fundraisers, and events.

Solicit online donations through your advocacy page within iConnectX, also on any fundraisers and events you run. Platforms like iConnectX make it easy by integrating payment forms in the process, employing only a single button click. Payments are sent to your nonprofit directly. The best part of platforms like iConnectX is any users or nonprofits can create fundraisers with just 5 easy steps.

Set up a demo of iConnectX with one of our team members so you can see how easy it is to set up your advocacy page and start collecting online donations.

Online Ticketed Event

Online fundraising events can help with boosting donations and tap the audience who may not be able to attend the event in-person. Platforms like iConnectX have introduced online fundraising events for nonprofits and their supporters. Even a professional can set up a fundraiser with an included event page on behalf of nonprofits. Don’t miss out on your participant’s contribution in any way by creating virtual event page on iConnectX that enables them to give at anytime and anywhere.

Easily set up your events with options to collect RSVPs, sell tickets, sell sponsorship packages, and collect donations. Show your attendees where the location is through the google maps integration. Promote your event in the iConnectX Marketplace where our community of professional’s view the info on both web and our mobile app. The platform includes full reporting of who responded, sold tickets and sponsorship packages.

Online ticketed events are also a trending fundraising method, where nonprofits are spending less time and effort than hosting the traditional in-person event. An online event frees up your staff, helping nonprofits spend their time and energy where needed most.

Set up a demo of iConnectX with one of our team members so you can see how easy it is to set up your own online event and sell tickets to raise funds.

Online Auctions

Take your auction to the next level and get more participation by hosting it on an online platform. Solutions like iConnectX enable your auction participation to happen online through the mobile app.

Easily set up and run your own auction, have your participants use the web and mobile apps for bidding, provide notifications for bidders; highest bidder or out-bid, and of course, full reporting of bids and dollars raised.

So, whether you are holding a silent auction at a golfing event, looking to turn those donated items into dollars through an online event, or holding a gala with elegant prizes, iConnectX has the solution for you. Online auctions have their own benefits, its easy to bid, you can incorporate donations, and any bidders can participate at anytime and anywhere. It’s a win-win for bidders and your nonprofit. Online auctions are a good tool for when most of us are looking to donate unused items to nonprofits and contribute to raising funds for them.

Set up a demo of iConnectX with one of our team members so you can see how easy it is to set up your own online auction and raise funds.

Coronavirus or COVID-19 is spreading at such a pace that the number of cases in some areas are doubling each week. So far, over 6.9 million cases of the novel coronavirus have been officially declared globally, with around 410,000 deaths, leaving many in the critical condition fighting for their life. Due to this high-rising increase, many countries are falling short on person protection equipment such as masks, gloves and other medical equipment required for treatment.

Economies are declining, Healthcare infrastructures are failing, and the small business community is shut down. Schools are closed, malls, restaurants, and many other businesses are either closed or only keeping a small porting of their business in place due to the government issued lockdown. The world could see another recession that can be worse than the last recession in that took place in 2009(Source: IMF ).

So, what can you do to help?

Fundraising for Coronavirus: How to Raise Funds for victims and families of the COVID-19 Pandemic

1. Support industries that are Impacted by Coronavirus:

The hospitality industry is one of the most affected industries due to the pandemic. Most hospitals are overcrowded and do not have enough personal protection equipment for the workers. Most companies have seen a drop of 70-80% in sales resulting in huge profit losses and corresponding unemployment in affected countries. Also, hourly workers or employees being not paid during their lockdown are among the most vulnerable during this pandemic, making low-income household families more vulnerable and in need of immediate financial assistance.

2. Create a Fundraiser:

Another way to support these victims is to create a fundraiser for a local nonprofit helping victims and families affected by the Coronavirus. By setting up a fundraiser, you can support the nonprofits who are raising funds to provide food & water, medical supplies, and volunteering support due to the spread of coronavirus. Once the fundraiser is created, share your updates to your audience, invite them to join your cause and make donations to support your fundraiser. Invite your professional connections to build your network and support your nonprofit fundraising cause.

3. Directly Donate to Nonprofit Organizations:

A great way to support the victims and families affected by the Coronavirus is to donate direct to these nonprofits who are helping or providing necessities to people affected by COVID-19.

If you are looking for charities serving people during this hard time, you can click here and find local or national nonprofits supporting these causes. You can help through monetary donations, or providing food, water, medicine, toiletries, and more. If you’re not able to donate items or want to do your own nonprofit fundraising, consider starting a fundraiser to support a local charity. Using iConnectX, you can find over 144 local onboarded nonprofits or 1.7 million non-onboarded nonprofits and start fundraising on their behalf.

4. Shift away from traditional events and move to Virtual Events:

The COVID-19 pandemic across the USA and world has brought fundraising events to a halt that forcing the nonprofits to change the tactics to raise the funds to run the programs supporting the community by basic necessities.

During these times, nonprofits have to be more mindful and sensitive when asking for funds to support their cause, as we are all concerned about our own financial situations. Leveraging iConnectX, nonprofits or individuals (through fundraisers) can create virtual events to solicit online fundraising auctions or sell tickets to a virtual event. They can invite their networks to participate. Find out more on how to create a nonprofit virtual event.

Now, more than event, it is important to stay connected with your top donors who consistently donate to your causes and volunteer in your programs. Reach out to your existing audience and/or target the new “giving-minded” audience in iConnectX and promote your online auctions or virtual events. Using iConnectX, create an account and connect with professionals willing to donate to nonprofits during these challenging times the country is going through.