Nonprofits must have a consistent stream of funds to be able to acquire the many resources that they need to make a difference in their communities. While some nonprofits rely on a single grant or endowment to pay for their activities, many more NFPs are heavily dependent on multiple sources for revenues. Individual donations often play a significant role in paying for the operations and services offered by a majority of nonprofits. The following four best practices can help you create more effective campaigns for your organisation.

Create a More Compelling Fundraising Story

If you want others to donate to your organisation, you must give them a good reason to encourage them to do so. Your fundraising stories should grab the attention of others and encourage them to give to your cause. While there are countless ways to tell your nonprofit’s story, the most captivating ones tend to share similar themes.

When crafting your story, think about what issue or problem your NFP is trying to solve, and use this information as the basis for why individuals should care about your mission. Make sure that you explain what is really at stake in terms that resonate with others and really drive home the message of how even small donations can help your organisation do a great deal of good in your community.

Have multiple authors craft your organisation’s story to help your cause appeal to a broader range of folks. You might, for example, have a beneficiary of your services talk about how your nonprofit has impacted their life for the better. Volunteers and donors can speak about why your NFP is special to them, and why they choose to support your mission over other causes. Board members and staff can talk about the specific progress your organisation has made in solving the issue, and, what work remains to be done.

Focus on Visual Imagery

Every story should be accompanied by at least one clear, high-resolution image that captures the heart of why your organisation exists. Videos, infographics, and even photo essays can all play a part in helping your nonprofit convey the importance of the work that it does in your community, and you should vary the number and types of images that you include with every fundraising story to encourage greater understanding and giving.

Set an Ambitious Fundraising Goal

Always set a specific fundraising goal when you have a donations drive. Having a target amount in mind helps to keep you and your fundraising team motivated, and encourages your supporters to give more generously. When creating your goal, don’t be afraid to dream big. Pick an amount that will cause you and your supporters to stretch just past their comfort zone, and don’t forget to test the results of your messaging and make micro-adjustments throughout the campaign to incrementally improve your results as your campaign develops over time.

Keep Your Supporters Updated on Your Progress

Whenever you are conducting a fundraising campaign, make sure that you are keeping your supporters up-to-date on your progress on your website, and social media channels. Twitter is particularly effective for this task, as it allows you send instant alerts and text updates. Consider using tweets as a way to build interest and excitement and convince your supporters to join in during specific fundraising challenges and other contests that you host during your campaign.