Non-profits have long relied on traditional fundraising methods such as events and direct mail campaigns to generate donations. However, with the advent of technology, non-profits now have access to a variety of tools that not only greatly improve their fundraising efforts but can also use technology to increase revenue or communication with donors.
To better understand this range of technology, first, we must know how this technology works and why your non-profit can’t afford to not embrace it.
Types of Technology for Non-Profits
Historically speaking, the non-profit sector has been slower than others when it comes to embracing digital technology. This can be caused by several factors; cost, awareness, and fear of security concerns.
However, if done effectively, technology adoption can strategically select digital tools that empower your staff and stakeholders to deliver on the organization’s mission. It’s a culture of innovation that embraces technology.
Digital technology can include anything from social sites, and online donation platforms, as well as hosting an online digital fundraising event.
Online Donation Platforms
One type of technology commonly used by non-profits is online donation platforms. These platforms allow non-profits to easily accept donations via their website or mobile devices.
In this digital world of devices always on hand, this makes it convenient for people to donate, making them feel more inclined to do so. However, when you first adopt a new online donation platform you want to ensure you are doing so securely.
Social Media Engagement
As more companies have realized, social media has become a game changer in how people grow and advertise themselves. Non-profits hopped on this bandwagon, using different platforms to spread a campaign and gain more traction.
Since the pandemic, non-profit organizations have found more success using social media to generate donations as in-person events were not feasible.
Social media now offers the chance to pay for running ads through various platforms like Facebook or Instagram. This technological opportunity helps non-profits reach a larger audience and in turn, potentially generate more donations.
Cyber Security
Cyber security, like the one serviced by cyber security Red Deer, has become increasingly important as non-profits handle sensitive information. They have to be especially careful with donors’ credit card information and personal data.
The use of secure online platforms and strong passwords can prevent cyber attacks on non-profit organizations. If you’re unsure of what direction to take as a non-profit in need of cybersecurity, we offer cyber security services with strategic planning.
The Cloud
As non-profit’s grow, so does their data. The use of cloud technology allows for easier access to important documents and files from anywhere with an internet connection. It also helps non-profits save on physical storage space by storing information online, instead of purchasing filing cabinets or hard drives.
These cloud services can include well known names such as:
- Google drive
- Dropbox
- Microsoft OneDrive
Because these are extremely cheap options, non-profits can save money and allocate it towards their program or campaign.
Managed IT Support vs Break Fix
Managed IT support is focused on preventing a problem whereas break fix is there after the problem occurs, focusing on fixing it. This is why managed IT services can be more costly, because it is active security instead of reactive — there’s more of a chance of never experiencing these cyber scares with it.
When it comes to non-profit fundraising, technology can greatly improve the process whether it be social media tricks or cyber protection. So next time you’re thinking of implementing non-profit technology for efficiency, consider one of these options.