Nonprofits are always looking for new and innovative ways to promote their organization to gain donations and attract volunteers. Volunteers help nonprofits implement programs. According to studies, around 100 million people volunteer annually, providing a total yearly value of approximately $150 billion in services.
Donations are necessary for nonprofits to continue funding programs and services for beneficiaries. Suppose the nonprofit is looking to gain monetary contributions. It is vital to be clear about where the money will go and how it will be used.
However, many times nonprofits overlook some straightforward marketing methods which can be highly effective. This article will discuss some of the most overlooked but highly effective strategies for promoting a nonprofit.
Professional Marketing Support
Even if you are a nonprofit, you need to get help from a professional digital marketing agency. This can be difficult to find because many agencies want to help for-profit companies. You should look for an agency that specializes in marketing to nonprofits or that takes on social good projects. Many times, these agencies offer their services at a discounted rate or pro bono.
Some examples of professional marketing support include:
1. Creating a website
2. Managing your social media channels
3. Developing an email marketing campaign
4. Creating and managing online ads
5. Conducting market research
6. Planning and executing promotional events
With all of these, you must have someone on your team who can work closely with the agency and help provide guidance. This way, you can be sure that your marketing campaign is aligned with your organization’s goals and mission.
Telling Stories
The best way to promote a nonprofit is by telling stories. When people are moved by a story, they are more likely to take action. This could be a story about how your nonprofit has helped someone in need or a story about someone who has been helped by your nonprofit.
Whatever the story is, make sure it is compelling and authentic. You can share these stories on your website, social media channels, or even in emails to potential donors.
Facebook Advertising
Facebook is a powerful tool that can be used to reach out to potential donors and volunteers. By creating targeted ads, nonprofits can specifically target individuals who may be interested in their cause. For example, Facebook allows you to target people based on their interests, demographics, and even location.
This is a great way to reach out to potential donors who may not be aware of your nonprofit. Additionally, Facebook ads are relatively inexpensive, so they are a great option for nonprofits with limited budgets.
Develop an Infographic
An infographic is a picture with words that tells a story or presents information in an interesting way. They are easy to share on social media and can be very effective in getting your nonprofit’s story out there.
When creating an infographic, make sure to include information that will resonate with your audience. For example, if you are trying to reach potential donors, make sure to include information about how their donations will be used.
Utilize Local Media
Local media is a great way to promote your nonprofit, especially if you are trying to reach people in your community. You can submit press releases to local newspapers and TV stations. You can also hold events and invite the media to cover them.
By utilizing local media, you can raise awareness about your nonprofit and what it does in the community. This is a great way to attract new volunteers and donors who may not be aware of your organization.
Event Marketing
Hosting events is a great way to promote a nonprofit and gain donations and volunteers. Events allow potential donors and volunteers to interact with the organization and learn more about what they do.
Additionally, events can be used as fundraiser opportunities which can help generate much-needed funds for the nonprofit.
Personalized Communications
Sending personalized communications to potential donors and volunteers can go a long way in promoting a nonprofit. By taking the time to send a handwritten note or even just an email, nonprofits can show potential donors and volunteers that they are interested in them as individuals.
Additionally, personalized communications allow nonprofits to build relationships with potential donors and volunteers. This way, they are more likely to take action when asked to do so.
Grassroots Marketing
Grassroots marketing involves using creative and personal approaches to marketing a nonprofit. This type of marketing can be extremely effective in reaching potential donors and volunteers who may not be reached through traditional methods.
Some examples of grassroots marketing include flyering, canvassing, and even door-to-door campaigning. This type of marketing allows nonprofits to directly engage with potential donors and volunteers and tell them about their cause.
Expand the Reach of Your Help with More Funds and Volunteers
There are many simple but effective ways to promote a nonprofit. By using some or all of these methods, nonprofits can greatly increase their chances of gaining donations and attracting volunteers. This will go a long way in expanding your reach and services for beneficiaries.
However, it is important to remember that each method should be used in conjunction with other marketing efforts in order to be truly effective. With assistance from a professional agency, you can consolidate your efforts to reach your goals.