Fundraising

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Are cheques soon to be a thing of the past?

You and I likely do not have a checking account with our Australian bank. While very popular in the United States, checking accounts are already becoming history in this country. In 2021, less than two cheques were written per household. This is down from 50 per household in the 1980s. Due to consumer demand and safer, electronic payment options, cheques could be faded out sooner than many can predict.

What would your charity do if you were given a month or two notice that cheques were going to be history in the Australian banking system? It happened in New Zealand.

Impact of a loss of cheques as a pay method

The change in the banking system would impact elderly donors the most. If cheques were to go away in the Australian banking system, it would have an impact on charitable giving in a few ways.

  1. Donation collection
    • Many charities still rely on cheques as a means of collecting donations from supporters
    • Charities would have to find alternative ways of collecting donations
    • This could include using online payment platforms or setting up direct debit arrangements
    • However, not all donors may be comfortable with online payments or may prefer to donate via cheque
  2. Administration costs
    • Charities would need to invest in new systems and technologies to manage and process donations through alternative means
    • This could come at a cost to charities, particularly for smaller organisations with limited resources
  3. Donor demographics
    • It’s important to note that some donors, particularly older donors, may not be comfortable with using online payment methods and prefer to donate via cheque
    • Removing cheques could result in a loss of donations from this demographic, which may impact some charities that rely on this group of donors

Overall, if cheques were to go away in the Australian banking system, charities would need to adapt their donation collection methods, invest in new systems and technologies, and potentially face a loss of donations from some donors. However, it’s also possible that alternative methods of donation collection could be more efficient and cost-effective in the long run.

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Giving day platforms – selecting the best one for your organisation

Giving days have become an increasingly popular way for charities and non-profit organisations to raise funds and awareness for their causes. These days typically involve a 24-hour period of intensive fundraising activities, often centred around a specific event or theme. One of the most important decisions that charities need to make when planning a giving day is which of the giving day platforms to use to collect donations. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the key factors that charities should consider when selecting a giving day platform.

In the Asia-Pacific market Charidy is the most widely known platform. Other third-party fundraising platforms now offering functionality for giving days include: GoFundraise, Funraisin, Grassrootz, MyCause, GiveEasy, Raisely, and many others. With a competitive space in our market, what are the key components to seek in a giving platform?

Top five requirements for giving day platforms

  1. Ease of Use and User Experience

The first thing to consider when selecting a giving day platform is the ease of use and user experience. A platform that is difficult to navigate or confusing for donors to use can lead to frustration and result in fewer donations. Look for a platform that is intuitive, user-friendly, and has a simple and straightforward donation process. Additionally, consider the platform’s ability to handle high traffic volumes without crashing or experiencing technical difficulties.

  1. Security and Reliability

The security and reliability of the platform are also crucial factors to consider. You want to make sure that the platform you choose is secure and can protect donors’ sensitive information. Look for a platform that is PCI compliant and offers robust security features such as encryption and two-factor authentication. Additionally, you want to ensure that the platform has a proven track record of reliability and uptime.

  1. Customisability and Flexibility

Charities should also look for a platform that offers customisability and flexibility. This allows them to tailor their giving day to their unique needs and branding. Look for a platform that allows you to customize your donation pages, emails, and other communication materials. Additionally, consider whether the platform can integrate with your existing systems and tools, such as your CRM or marketing automation software.

  1. Payment Processing Fees

Payment processing fees are an inevitable part of any giving day platform, but the fees charged can vary widely. Charities should carefully evaluate the fees associated with each platform and consider how they will impact their fundraising goals. Look for a platform that offers competitive processing fees and transparent pricing structures.

  1. Additional Features and Support

Finally, charities should consider any additional features and support that the platform offers. This could include features such as peer-to-peer fundraising, social media integrations, and analytics and reporting tools. Additionally, consider the level of support offered by the platform, including customer service, technical support, and training resources.

In conclusion, selecting a giving day platform is a crucial decision for any charity or non-profit organisation. By considering factors such as ease of use, security, customizability, payment processing fees, and additional features and support, charities can select a platform that meets their unique needs and maximises their fundraising potential.

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First gift anniversaries are important to remember

Stewardship is an important part of fundraising. It is the act of acknowledging and appreciating donors for their contributions to your organisation. On first gift anniversaries, it is a great opportunity to show your gratitude and continue to build a strong relationship with your donor.

Top ideas to steward donors on first gift anniversaries

Here are the top ways to steward your donors on the anniversary of their first gift to your organisation.

  1. Personalized Communication
    • A personalized message is a great way to make a donor feel valued and appreciated
    • Write a handwritten note or send an email thanking them for their continued support
    • Let them know how their donation has made an impact
    • Be specific and include stories or statistics to show the impact of their gift
  2. Recognition
    • Recognise your donor’s anniversary gift by highlighting their name in your newsletter, social media, or on your website
    • This not only shows your appreciation but also helps build a sense of community among your supporters
  3. Upgrade to a Higher Giving Level
    • Consider offering your donor the opportunity to upgrade their giving level
    • This could be a great way to show your appreciation for their past support and encourage them to make an even bigger impact in the future
  4. Personalized Tour or Visit
    • Invite your donor for a tour of your organisation or for a visit to see the impact of their gift firsthand
    • This is a great opportunity to connect with them on a personal level and show them how their gift is making a difference
  5. Special Event Invitation
    • Invite your donor to a special event, such as a gala or fundraising event
    • This is a great way to show your appreciation and provide them with an opportunity to connect with other supporters of your organisation
  6. Thank You Gift
    • Depending on the size of their first donation, a small token of appreciation, such as a gift card, a book, or a personalized item, can go a long way in showing your gratitude for your donor’s support
    • Choose something that is meaningful and relevant to their interests
  7. Report on Progress
    • Provide your donor with a report on the progress made towards your organisation’s goals
    • This is a great way to show the impact of their gift and let them know that their support is making a difference

By incorporating these strategies, you can build a strong relationship with your donors and ensure that they feel appreciated and valued. On the first gift anniversaries, take the time to thank them for their support and show them how much their contribution has made an impact.

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Steps to a successful fundraising plan

Developing a fundraising strategic plan can be a daunting task, but it’s a necessary step in achieving the financial stability and growth of any organisation. A successful fundraising plan requires careful planning, research, and attention to detail, but with the right components in place, it can be a powerful tool for achieving your organisation’s goals.

Essential components to include in your fundraising strategic plan

  1. Mission and Vision
    • The first step in developing a fundraising plan is to articulate the mission and vision of your organisation
    • This includes a clear statement of what your organisation does, who it serves, and what impact you hope to have
    • Having a strong and well-defined mission and vision will provide a framework for the rest of your fundraising plan and help you stay focused on your goals
  2. Goals and Objectives
    • Next, you need to define specific and measurable goals and objectives for your fundraising plan
    • These should align with your organization’s mission and vision and should be achievable within a specific timeframe
    • Examples of goals might include increasing overall fundraising revenue, diversifying your donor base, or launching a new fundraising campaign.
  3. SWOT Analysis
    • A SWOT analysis is a useful tool for evaluating your organisation’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats
    • This information can help you identify areas where you need to focus your efforts and make informed decisions about the strategies and tactics you’ll use to reach your goals
  4. Target Donor Audience
    • Knowing your target donor audience is essential to developing a successful fundraising plan
    • You need to understand who are your potential donors
    • Further, you need to understand what motivates them to give, and how you can best reach them
    • Consider factors such as age, income, interests, and giving history when defining your target audience
  5. Fundraising Channels
    • There are many different channels you can use to raise funds, including:
    • Direct mail, online giving, major gifts, grant writing, and more
    • You need to consider which channels are best suited to your target audience
    • Consider which will help you achieve your goals
    • Consider also how you can make the most of technology to reach your donors and make the giving process as easy as possible
  6. Budget and Timeline
    • Developing a budget and timeline is essential to ensuring the success of your fundraising plan
    • You need to understand what resources are required to implement your plan
    • Further, explore how much money you need to raise, and when you need to raise it
    • Having a clear budget and timeline will help you stay on track and ensure that you’re making the best use of your resources
  7. Evaluation and Tracking
    • Finally, it’s essential to have a system in place for evaluating and tracking your progress against your goals
    • This will allow you to make any necessary adjustments to your plan and ensure that you’re on track to achieve your desired results

With careful planning and attention to detail, you can develop a successful fundraising plan that will help you achieve your organisation’s financial stability and growth.

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Fundraising – an art or a science?

Fundraising has long been a topic of debate among nonprofit professionals, with some arguing that it is an art and others believing it to be a science. While there is evidence to support both sides, the truth is likely somewhere in between.

Fundraising as an Art

The argument for charity fundraising as an art centres around the idea that success in this field requires creativity, intuition, and emotional intelligence. Proponents argue that effective fundraising is not just about numbers and data, but also about building relationships and inspiring others to give. They suggest that the best fundraisers have a natural talent for connecting with people and telling stories that resonate with donors and inspire them to give.

For example, a fundraiser with a knack for storytelling might use emotional appeals and vivid imagery to inspire donors to support a particular cause. Or, a fundraiser who excels at building relationships might foster a sense of community among donors and encourage them to give collectively.

Fundraising as a Science

On the other hand, proponents of charity fundraising as a science argue that it is based on data, research, and a systematic approach to decision making. They suggest that effective fundraising requires an understanding of donor behavior and a scientific approach to testing and refining strategies. For example, a scientific fundraiser might use data analysis to identify the best time and channel for reaching out to donors, or use A/B testing to determine the most effective messaging for inspiring giving.

In this view, fundraising is not just about telling stories and building relationships, but also about using evidence-based strategies to maximize results. Fundraisers who approach their work as a science are more likely to focus on metrics like conversion rates, donor lifetime value, and return on investment.

A Balance of Art and Science

The truth is likely somewhere in between. While both art and science play a role in charity fundraising, the most effective approach is likely a balance of both. Fundraisers who are skilled at both storytelling and data analysis are likely to be the most successful, as they can use data to inform their creative decisions and craft stories that resonate with donors.

For example, a fundraiser who uses data to understand the motivations and behaviour of their target audience is more likely to craft a message that resonates with them. Conversely, a fundraiser skilled at storytelling but lacks data-driven insights is more likely to miss the mark when it comes to inspiring giving.

In conclusion, fundraising is both an art and a science. Success in this field requires a combination of creativity, emotional intelligence, and data-driven insights. Fundraisers who approach their work with a balanced perspective are likely to be the most effective and make the biggest impact for their causes.

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Developing a Three-Year Fundraising Strategy with a Consultant

As a non-profit organisation, the goal is to generate increased funding to support your cause and make a positive impact on the world. To achieve this goal, it is important to have a comprehensive and well-structured fundraising strategy in place. However, creating such a strategy can be a daunting task, especially if you are new to fundraising or have limited resources. This is where a consultant can be of great help.

A consultant can bring in valuable expertise and knowledge to help you create a successful fundraising strategy. They can help you identify and evaluate your organization’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. They can also help you to establish realistic goals and objectives and to plan how to reach those goals through a variety of fundraising channels.

Fundraising strategy

Tips to get the most out of your consultancy

Here are some tips to help you get the most out of working with a consultant to develop a three-year charity fundraising strategy:

  1. Be Clear About Your Needs and Expectations

Before you start working with a consultant, it’s important to be clear about your organization’s needs and expectations. Discuss what your goals are, what you want to achieve through fundraising, and what resources you have available. This will help the consultant to understand your needs and tailor their services to meet those needs.

  1. Choose the Right Consultant

Choosing the right consultant is crucial to the success of your fundraising strategy. Look for someone with experience in charity fundraising, and who has a track record of success. Research their credentials and references, and ask for samples of their previous work.

  1. Communicate Effectively

Good communication is key to a successful collaboration with a consultant. Establish regular touchpoints, such as weekly meetings or phone calls, to ensure that you are both on the same page. Share all relevant information and be transparent about any challenges or concerns you may have.

  1. Be Willing to Make Changes

A consultant can bring a fresh perspective to your fundraising efforts. Be open to their suggestions and be willing to make changes to your approach if needed. Remember, the consultant’s goal is to help you achieve your fundraising objectives, so be open to new ideas and be willing to take risks.

  1. Evaluate Progress and Adapt as Needed

Once your fundraising strategy is in place, it’s important to evaluate progress and make adjustments as needed. Regularly assess your progress against your goals and objectives, and make changes to your approach if necessary. This will help you to stay on track and ensure that your fundraising strategy remains relevant and effective.

In conclusion, working with a consultant to develop a three-year charity fundraising strategy can be a valuable investment for your organization. By choosing the right consultant, communicating effectively, being willing to make changes, and evaluating progress, you can create a successful fundraising strategy that will help you achieve your goals and make a positive impact on the world.

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BPAY and POSTPAY can easily be embedded in fundraising appeals

Bpay

As an Australian charity, it’s crucial to have multiple options for accepting donations from supporters. BPAY and POSTPAY are two popular payment methods used by many charities to raise funds. In this blog post, we’ll explore how you can use BPAY and POSTPAY effectively in your fundraising appeals.

BPAY

BPAY is an electronic bill payment service that allows individuals to pay bills, including charitable donations, directly from their bank account. It’s a secure and convenient way to donate, and supporters can choose to make a one-off or recurring payment.

To use BPAY in your fundraising appeals, include the BPAY details on your donation page, such as the biller code and reference number. You can also include this information in your direct mail appeals and email campaigns. Encourage supporters to use BPAY by highlighting its ease of use and security.

POSTPAY

POSTPAY is a similar service to BPAY, but it allows supporters to pay their bills and make donations through Australia Post. This payment method is particularly useful for those who prefer to make payments in person, as they can visit a Post Office and make a donation using cash, credit card, or EFT.

To use POSTPAY in your fundraising appeals, include the POSTPAY details, such as the biller code and reference number, on your donation page and in your direct mail appeals and email campaigns. Encourage supporters to make a donation using POSTPAY by highlighting the convenience of being able to pay in person, using cash or credit card.

Both BPAY and POSTPAY are reliable payment methods that are widely used in Australia. Including these options in your fundraising appeals will provide supporters with the choice to donate in a way that’s most convenient for them. By making it easy for supporters to donate, you’ll be more likely to receive more donations and reach your fundraising goals.

In conclusion, using BPAY and POSTPAY in your fundraising appeals is a great way to provide supporters with convenient and secure payment options. By including these payment methods on your donation page, in direct mail appeals and email campaigns, you’ll increase the chances of receiving more donations and reach your fundraising goals.

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Peer-to-peer fundraising – reasons events do not succeed

Charity walk
Charity Run

Peer-to-peer fundraising events are a popular way for charities to raise funds and increase awareness of their cause. However, not all such events are successful, and there can be many reasons why.

Top reasons charity peer-to-peer events may not be successful

  1. Lack of Planning
    • One of the most common reasons that peer-to-peer fundraising events fail is poor planning
    • This can include failing to set realistic goals, not having a clear strategy in place, or not having enough time to promote the event properly
  2. Insufficient Marketing
    • In order for a peer-to-peer fundraising event to be successful, it is crucial to have a solid marketing plan in place
    • This includes promoting the event through social media, email campaigns, and other outreach efforts
  3. Poor Engagement with Participants
    • Engaging with participants is crucial for the success of a peer-to-peer fundraising event
    • This can include providing them with tools and resources to help them reach their fundraising goals, as well as recognising their efforts and offering incentives for their participation
  4. Lack of Incentives
    • Participants in peer-to-peer fundraising events often need the motivation to reach their fundraising goals
    • This can include incentives such as prizes, recognition, and other rewards for their efforts
  5. No Personal Connection to the Cause
    • People are often more likely to donate to a cause where they have a personal connection
    • If the participants do not well understand the charity and its mission, they may be less likely to engage in the event or reach their fundraising goals
  6. Poorly Designed Website
    • A well-designed website is crucial for the success of a peer-to-peer fundraising event
    • This includes having a user-friendly interface, clear and concise information about the cause, and an easy-to-use donation system.
  7. Technical Difficulties
    • Technical difficulties, such as issues with the donation platform or slow website load times, can discourage participants and negatively impact the success of a peer-to-peer fundraising event

In conclusion, a charity’s peer-to-peer fundraising event’s success depends on many factors. By being aware of these common pitfalls and taking steps to address them, organisations can increase the chances of their events being successful and raise funds and awareness they need to make a difference.

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Giving day – how ready is your charity or university?

A giving day is a one-day fundraising event where supporters of a charity or university are encouraged to make a donation. Giving days have become popular in recent years, providing an opportunity for organisations to engage with their donors and raise significant funds in a short period of time. However, not all organisations are equally well-prepared for such an event.

Giving day readiness factors

Here are some key factors to consider when determining if your charity or university is ready for a giving day.

  1. Fundraising Goals
    • Before planning a campaign, it’s important to have clear and realistic fundraising goals
    • Consider the size of your organisation, the number of donors you have, and the resources you have available to determine a realistic goal
  2. Donor Database
    • A well-maintained donor database is essential for a successful event
    • Make sure your database is up to date, and that you have accurate contact information for your donors
  3. Communication Plan
    • A clear and effective communication plan is crucial for the success
    • Consider how you will reach out to your donors and engage them in the event
    • Engagement may include emails, social media, direct mail, and other methods
  4. Matching Gifts
    • Matching gifts are a great way to encourage donors to give
    • Consider securing matching gifts from corporate sponsors or major donors to add an extra incentive for giving
  5. Volunteer Support
    • A giving day requires a lot of work and coordination
    • Consider recruiting volunteers to help with tasks such as outreach, donation processing, and social media engagement
  6. Technology
    • Robust technology infrastructure is required to manage donations, communications, and donor data
    • Make sure your organisation has the necessary technology in place
  7. Preparation Time
    • Giving days typically take several months to plan and execute
    • Make sure your organisation has the time and resources necessary to plan and execute this large-scale activity

In conclusion, a giving day can be a great opportunity for a charity or university to engage with its supporters and raise significant funds. However, it’s important to consider these key factors and ensure your organisation is well-prepared before embarking in the event. With the right planning and preparation, a giving day can be a powerful tool for advancing your organization’s mission.

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Charity donations are given due to altruistic reasons and others

Charity

Donating to charity is a noble act that can have a profound impact on the lives of those in need. While altruistic reasons such as empathy, compassion, and a desire to help others are some of the most common motivations for giving, there are many other factors that influence people’s charitable giving.

Reasons people give to charity

  1. Tax Benefits
    • For many people, the tax benefits of donating to charity are a significant factor in their decision to give
    • Charitable contributions can result in tax deductions that can lower an individual’s taxable income, potentially reducing the amount of taxes owed
  2. Personal Beliefs and Values
    • People who are deeply committed to certain causes often choose to support organisations that align with their beliefs and values
  3. Social Influence
    • People are often influenced by the giving behaviour of their peers, friends, and family
    • If someone sees that those around them are giving to charity, they may be more likely to follow suit and donate themselves
  4. Reputation
    • For some people, charitable giving is a way to enhance their reputation and demonstrate their commitment to making a positive impact on the world
  5. Legacy
    • Many individuals see charitable giving as a way to leave a lasting legacy and make a positive impact on future generations
    • Donors may choose to support organisations that align with their values and beliefs
    • Donors may also align with charities that have a long-term focus on sustainability and impact
  6. Marketing and Advertising
    • Companies often donate to charity as part of their marketing and advertising strategy
    • Such an affiliation will improve the company reputation, build brand loyalty, and attract customers who value social responsibility
  7. Emotional Rewards
    • Charitable giving can provide emotional rewards such as a sense of fulfilment, satisfaction, and gratitude
    • These rewards can be especially meaningful for those who have experienced personal hardships

A 2021 Australian and US study published in Nature Human Behaviour found asking for donations by appealing to the donor’s self-interest may result in more money than appealing to their better nature. Those who received an appeal to self-interest were both more likely to give and gave more than those in the control group. The effect was most pronounced for those who hadn’t given prior.

In conclusion, while altruistic reasons are a significant driver of charitable giving, there are many other factors that influence why people choose to donate to charity. Understanding these reasons can help organizations create more effective fundraising campaigns and inspire more people to give.

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