The 2013 Blackbaud Charitable Giving Report stated that online giving increased 13.5% compared to 2012, which had shown an increase of 10.7% from 2011 – two consecutive years of double-digit growth. More donors are making online contributions to not-for-profit organizations in the United States than ever before; no doubt this trend will continue. The generation that grew up browsing and shopping on the Internet will be even more likely to log on to contribute to their favorite organizations.
Major organizations have been effectively using the Internet to raise revenue for years, especially for specific events, such as annual nationwide races. Now, even the smallest organizations can easily create a platform through which Internet users can make contributions on a one-time or recurring basis, purchase tickets for fundraising events, or pay fees and dues. There is a dizzying array of options to consider from all-in-one ,"off-the-shelf" software to custom designed donor management and fundraising integrated packages.
If your organization does not already have the capability to collect online contributions, it is time to join this growing movement. As when purchasing any service, you will want be certain that the cost and fees associated with an online fundraising vehicle fit within your budget and that the capabilities of the system are appropriate for your needs. Ideally, online giving should be simple and secure for you and your donors. Making a gift online should be quick, easy and convenient. Donors should have assurance that their information is being handled as responsibly as the funds they are contributing. The back-end accounting and reporting need to be workable, enabling staff to efficiently track and record transactions, maintain useful records and maximize the benefit of this valuable resource.
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