It is a critical time for nonprofits to fundraise and be creative in their approach As the coronavirus pandemic reduces the options for fundraising yet further, with one in four people on the planet facing some form of severe restriction on their movements, it’s time to share some fundraising Techniques that will empower your Nonprofit to continue operating through these difficult times.
So what fundraising activities can Nonprofits get engaged in during the Covid19 Pandemic?
Reach out through your network
Of course many people are not in this position and are in a precarious financial position, and we know for sure that some of our current donors might be passing through tough times and are not in a position to make a contribution to our cause. However, we should not underestimate the power of networking, there are still plenty of other ways they can give or make a difference to your nonprofit organization. Nonprofit organizations can ask their current donors to reach out to new potential donors. This can be as simple as asking your current donors and supporters to reach out to at least three other people in their networks to donate to your nonprofit. If the people they reach out to also reach out to other three more people and so on, you can rapidly increase your number of donors in a short time. Simply because the economy appears to be in free fall, don’t make assumptions what your donors will and will not do, or what they can or cannot give.
At the end of the day ‘DON’T FORGET TO THANK YOUR DONORS’. Gratitude goes far, especially when people are stressed. Take the time to extend genuine and heartfelt thank you’s to donors. Go out of your way to pick up the phone, handwrite notes, and even say thank you in person when you can. Don’t take any donor for granted.
Search and Apply for grants
Some governments, foundations and corporations are offering COVID-19-related emergency grants. Set aside some time to research opportunities you might be eligible for. Search online and ask friends if they know of any foundation or government offering Covid-19 related grants.
Explore a list of grant and funding opportunities that might be a good fit for your nonprofit or business as you navigate new challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Check here for some ideas: COVID-19 Grants For Nonprofits + Small Businesses
Apply Social Distancing by moving online
With most of the world social distancing, it’s time to take your fundraising efforts online. Online fundraising is a way for nonprofit organizations to raise money via the internet. It usually involves an online donation page and can include mobile giving, peer-to-peer fundraising, and more. Online fundraising can help your nonprofit organization raise more money even with the Covid19 Pandemic on the move. If you do not already have an online donation form, now is the time to make one. You can include a link to the form in your communications and on your website.
If you are a person who loves fundraising for charities and the Covid19 has impacted you on accomplishing your dreams, here are some ideas on how you can continue fundraising and supporting your local charity even with the coronavirus lockdown in place.
SOMETHING TO REMEMBER:
When fundraising during this difficult times, always remember to ask for what you need. If your needs have increased due to Coronavirus or the downturn in the economy, let your donors know. Don’t be shy and hold back. Share what you need and offer ways your donors can help. They just might surprise you (in a good way).
"It's my job to inspire you with time-saving resources like these ones. Thanks for reading, and please don’t forget to share with others who might find this interesting!”
Rumishael Ulomi – Founder/Principal Consultant Ruchris CONSULTING/VineBranch Training & Development Institute
