For many organisations, fundraising is essential. In fact for some, the amount of money dropping into on-site donation boxes can make a huge difference to how they operate. So getting it right is critical.
I recently visited an attraction where there were so many donation boxes I was practically tripping over them. Tap to donate sat right next to coin donation boxes and I lost count of how many times this was repeated in a relatively small space.
But the reasons why I should donate and what it would do for that organisation weren't prominent enough or integrated into my experience.
Here's 10 things to consider to maximise donations for your organisation:
When you ask people to donate, tell them why so they know they can make a difference
Link the ask to the experience you are giving them, especially when its a 'wow' moment or there's something special to see
Where possible, make your conservation work visible and tell people what's happening so they feel they're contributing
Fundraise for something specific. This might restrict what you can ultimately spend it on, but you increase to desire to give
Make the ask relevant to people either because of what they're seeing and feeling in your place, or because it's relatable in their own lives
And think about how you make the ask memorable such as asking people to buy and sign a roof tile or brick for a special building, for example
Think about where you make the ask. It needs to have impact, so choose the places in your experience that you know people like to dwell
And also how often you make it - it needs to have impact so don't over-repeat it
Link a donation ask to your goodbye; if you've given a visitor a great experience, they'll be more likely to give
Make it easy. Think about your audience and how they like to give - second hand books, tap to donate and quirky drop-coin boxes are all options and some people may choose multiple ways of supporting you
