5 Digital Trends for Nonprofits to Utilize in 2021

It’s no secret that 2020 brought along many twists and turns — especially within the nonprofit world. It’s likely your organization jumped into new ways of fundraising, hosting events and connecting with audiences.

With in-person events and outreach still on pause here in 2021, we’ve compiled a list of tips and best practices to help your nonprofit navigate the virtual world when it comes to reaching your donors and supporters in 2021 and beyond.

1. Social Media is Essential

In these days of social distancing, social media has become a foundation for staying connected. With 3.96 billion people currently using social media worldwide and the average person having at least 8.6 different social media accounts in 2020, this is critical to optimize and reach your audiences.

How is your nonprofit working to reach this upcoming generation? 60% of TikTok users are Gen Zers. Further down, you’ll realize how important this generation is to reach. Before you count out TikTok from your nonprofit’s marketing plan, think again!

Did you know #NonProfitTok exists on TikTok? This hashtag is used by nonprofits to help launch their videos onto the platform. TikTok is sweeping the world and is expected to reach 1.2 billion active users this year. This app is SO much more than viral dances and comedy, TikTok has even stepped up to help nonprofits fundraise right on the app.

Facebook has become a powerhouse when it comes to social media fundraising. However, many are frustrated with the extensive applications and taking months to process donations. It’s time for your nonprofit to invest in software that makes it easy to post donation links on social media, automatically saves donor information and deposits funds into your account within 1–2 days.

2. Don’t Wait to Reach Gen Z

The push to take on a strong digital presence goes hand in hand with the oldest members of Gen Z turning 25 this year. At this age, young adults are starting to cultivate the ability to donate to organizations they are passionate about. By 2026, Gen Z will make up the largest consumer generation at 82 billion.

Here are some important tips you’ll need to reach Gen Z in this rising digital age:

• Gen Z is a generation of digital natives. They have high expectations for your digital and social media presence, the time to invest in these platforms is now. 55% of Gen Z use their smartphones 5 or more hours a day and over 26% use their phones 10 or more hours a day.
• Gen Z is the most diverse and most educated generation in history. Gen-Z values inclusivity and representation- it will be essential that your communications reflect this with all audiences in mind.
• Gen Z craves a sense of community and connecting with those who value similar interests. Building a welcoming brand and community online is crucial to gain appeal from Gen Z.

3. Going Virtual is Here to Stay

Having a digital presence is important now more than ever before. Events like auctions, galas, raffles all seem like a distant memory — but they don’t have to be. Nonprofits must remain creative when it comes to events that can virtually connect, inspire and reach supporters.

We can see virtual events continue to rise as they allow nonprofits to:

• Not have any geographical barriers or limitations- event attendees, speakers and sponsors alike can be involved from anywhere in the world.
• Save time and money for all participants involved- no fees for venues, transportation, equipment, food & drink, etc.

Your virtual event will need to set itself apart from the typical day-to-day zoom meeting.

In a recent study by the Goodman Center, participants who have attended or led work-related videoconferences say the experience is most positive when there is:

• Engaging presentation
• Clear structure
• Interaction

4. Cloud Software is Imperative

“Nonprofits will have to make this move sooner or later since there will be no more desktop software options in the near future. The bottom line is this: Outdated software systems mean major security vulnerabilities. It’s as simple as that.”

Cloud Software Benefits:

• A system with remote access and mobility all in one place is essential for nonprofits to be efficient, especially in these days of remote work.
• Internal and external stakeholders can have access to accounts more seamlessly.
• Data is safe and secure in one software, so nonprofits spend less time worrying about security measures and technology risk.
• A great sustainable choice, you reduce the use of paper by making a switch to cloud-based software.

5. Send That Text

We are in a time where people’s attention span is limited when it comes to the content they are taking in online. This holds true when it comes to potential donors looking to give to your organization.

SMS open rates are as high as 98%, by sending out a quick text message that includes information on how to give to your organization, you’re very likely to generate interest and donations. Research shows about 61% of marketers still don’t use SMS, so if you start now you’ll be ahead of the game.

To see more on how DonorView can help you make the switch to cloud-based software, host your next virtual event, or launch a texting campaign visit DonorView.com