How to Ask for Donations: Steps, Examples & Templates

Asking for donations is a fundamental aspect of nonprofit fundraising and is crucial for supporting your nonprofit’s mission. However, mastering the art of solicitation can seem daunting. You need to know who to ask, when to approach them, and how to make the ask effectively to secure donations. While this may seem overwhelming, there are several tips and strategies to simplify the process and improve your chances of success.

The donation ask process at a glance

Although it would be nice to just walk up to strangers on the street, ask them for donations, and walk away with a large amount of money, it isn’t exactly realistic.

Instead, you have to understand that there’s a process to asking for donations. While the process will vary slightly depending on how you’re communicating with donors, some general strategies will remain in place:

1. Select your prospects.
2. Prepare the ask.
3. Make the ask.
4. Follow through.
5. Say thank you.

Let’s dive more deeply into every aspect of this process so your organization is prepared to make donation requests that are eagerly accepted.

Who to ask for donations

Individuals

Individual donors constitute a significant portion of philanthropic giving, making them a crucial target for donation solicitation. When approaching individuals for donations, consider the following strategies:

1. Existing supporters: Start by reaching out to individuals who are already engaged with your organization as volunteers, event attendees, or newsletter subscribers. These individuals have already demonstrated an interest in your cause and may be more receptive to donation appeals.
2. Personal networks: Tap into the personal networks of your board members, staff, and volunteers. Encourage them to use their relationships and networks to solicit donations from friends, family members, colleagues, and acquaintances who share an affinity for your cause.
3. Major donors: Identify individuals capable of making significant contributions to your organization. These may include high-net-worth individuals, philanthropists, or community leaders who have demonstrated a commitment to supporting charitable causes. Cultivate personalized relationships with major donors and tailor your solicitation efforts to align with their interests and giving preferences.

When individuals donate to nonprofits, they not only contribute to causes they care about but also experience a sense of fulfillment, altruism, and connection to their communities. By highlighting the personal benefits of philanthropy, such as making a positive impact, creating social change, and leaving a lasting legacy, you can inspire individuals to become enthusiastic supporters of your organization’s mission.

Corporations

Corporate philanthropy presents valuable opportunities for nonprofit organizations to secure funding, partnerships, and in-kind support. When targeting corporations for donations, consider the following approaches:

1. Corporate giving programs: Research corporations with established corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs or corporate giving initiatives. These companies may have grant programs, employee matching gift programs, or sponsorship opportunities available for nonprofits aligned with their philanthropic priorities.
2. Partnership opportunities: Explore potential partnerships with corporations that align with your organization’s mission or target audience. Consider partnerships for cause-related marketing campaigns, corporate sponsorships of events or programs, or collaborative fundraising initiatives that use the resources and expertise of both parties.
3. Employee engagement: Engage with corporations through opportunities such as workplace giving campaigns, volunteer programs, or corporate volunteer days. By involving employees in hands-on philanthropic activities, you can foster a sense of corporate citizenship and encourage ongoing support for your organization.

Corporations benefit from donating to nonprofits by enhancing their brand reputation, fostering positive relationships with stakeholders, and fulfilling their corporate social responsibility objectives. Through strategic philanthropic investments, corporations can demonstrate their commitment to social impact, employee engagement, and community development, thereby strengthening their position as responsible corporate citizens.

Foundations

Foundations play a vital role in supporting nonprofit organizations through grant funding and capacity-building initiatives. When seeking donations from foundations, consider the following strategies:

1. Grant research: Conduct thorough research to identify foundations that align with your organization’s mission, geographic focus, and programmatic priorities. Use online grant databases, foundation directories, and philanthropic networks to identify potential funding opportunities.
2. Grant proposal development: Develop compelling grant proposals that clearly articulate your organization’s mission, goals, programs, and impact. Tailor your proposals to align with the specific funding priorities and requirements of each foundation, demonstrating how your organization addresses critical needs and delivers measurable outcomes.
3. Relationship building: Cultivate relationships with foundation staff, program officers, and trustees through networking events, meetings, and informational sessions. Establishing rapport and trust with foundation representatives can enhance your organization’s visibility, credibility, and likelihood of securing grant funding.

Foundations benefit from donating to nonprofits by advancing their philanthropic missions, addressing pressing societal issues, and catalyzing positive change in communities. Through strategic grantmaking, foundations can use their resources, expertise, and networks to support innovative solutions, empower marginalized populations, and advance social justice initiatives, ultimately contributing to the collective well-being and prosperity of society.

Additional sources

In addition to individuals, corporations, and foundations, other potential sources of donations may include government agencies, community organizations, religious institutions, and civic groups. By diversifying your fundraising strategies and targeting multiple sources of support, you can maximize your organization’s fundraising potential and advance your mission effectively.

10 simple steps to asking for donations

Asking for donations doesn’t need to be a daunting task for your organization. Here are 10 easy steps you can follow to ask for contributions:

1. Craft a campaign plan

Begin with the end in mind! A well-defined campaign plan can guide you from the initial outreach to the final thank you. Identify your campaign objectives, decide on your messaging, and know exactly what resources you’ll need. Plotting the course can help you better achieve the desired outcome.

2. Be transparent about donation use

People want to see what their donations are funding. By providing transparent examples of how donations will be used, you empower your potential donors to understand their impact before they give. Whether it’s funding a community project or providing resources for those in need, showing the direct impact of donations builds trust and motivates contributions.

3. Ask for specific donation amounts

One of the worst donation asking strategies is to simply say, "Would you like to donate to this cause?" without explaining:

• What the cause is.
• How much the person should donate.

It’s this ambiguity that results in a lack of response from donors.

Instead, be specific, direct, and authentic. Something along the lines of, "Would you be willing to donate $100 to help orphaned kittens stay fed until they find a proper home?" is much more specific and effective at demonstrating your need to a prospect. It also offers a solution to the problem in the form of a donation.

Part of this direct and specific ask is also being authentic. Donors want to know that you are invested in the cause you’re asking them to support. How can you expect others to care about homeless kittens if you don’t appear to care about homeless kittens?

Being authentic also requires being true to yourself and asking for donations in a way that makes you feel comfortable. When you are upfront with donors and prospects, you connect with them on a human level, sound less scripted, and appear genuine.

4. Make your ask urgent

An urgent donation appeal not only tells your donors the importance of immediate action but also helps them feel they are part of something timely and significant. Remember, urgency should be genuine—it’s about inspiring action, not inducing anxiety.

5. Include your donor’s history

Every potential donor is unique, and a previous connection can significantly influence their decision to give. If you’ve interacted with a potential donor before, mention it! This personal touch acknowledges their past support and reinforces their importance to your mission, deepening their connection to your cause.

6. Create quick and easy ways to give

Convenience is king when it comes to donating. Offer simple, quick ways to donate—online platforms, text-to-donate options, or even mail-in forms for less tech-savvy donors. The easier the donation process is, the more likely potential donors are to follow through.

7. Thank your donors

Never underestimate the power of a heartfelt thank you! Donor stewardship is one of the key ways you can turn a one-time donor into a long-time supporter. Acknowledging each contribution, regardless of size, fosters goodwill and encourages ongoing support.

8. Provide more ways to support your organization

The end of the donation process should be the beginning of an ongoing conversation. Follow up with information on how a donor’s contributions are making a difference and offer them additional ways to support and engage with your organization, from attending events to volunteering. This seamless continuation keeps the spirit of giving alive and well.

9. Review what worked before your next ask

Did you implement a particularly effective email campaign six months ago that exceeded your fundraising goal? Did a recent phonathon fall a little short?

It’s important to ask these questions about your past donation asking strategies. Without understanding what has worked and what hasn’t, your organization cannot properly plan for future donation requests.

This step includes keeping track of fundraising metrics, staying up to date on which communication channels your donors prefer, and which asking strategies you need to improve.

10. Offer a non-monetary ask first

If you’re approaching a prospect who has never given to your organization before, they may be hesitant to donate, especially if it’s a large contribution.

Instead of continuing to push monetary donations on them (and potentially driving them away!), suggest a non-monetary contribution.

Many prospects feel more confident giving to an organization after attending a free event or volunteering their time. When they see tangible examples of how their contributions would be used, they tend to be more comfortable donating when you ask.

Ways to ask for donations

For nonprofits seeking support, mastering diverse donation solicitation methods is crucial. From in-person meetings to phone calls, direct mail, and email, each avenue offers unique advantages for connecting with donors. Understanding these methods allows organizations to optimize fundraising efforts and foster meaningful donor relationships.

Asking for donations in person

Asking for contributions in person isn’t a method that can be used for every donation appeal, but it’s a great way to reach potential major donors and businesses. Face-to-face meetings are usually longer, providing the perfect opportunity to lay out your organization’s mission and specific projects that need funding.

Because you can interact with a prospect in person, you can better gauge their interests and concerns. Asking in person also adds a personal touch to your donation appeals, which leads to a more compelling pitch and deeper donor relationships.

Getting started

1. Research your prospect.
2. Form an initial relationship with your donor.
3. Practice your pitch.
4. Be prepared to adjust your ask amount.

Asking for donations over the phone

Most people associate phonathons with asking for donations over the phone, but phone calls are effective for everyday fundraising, too. If your organization doesn’t have the time or resources to visit hundreds or thousands of people, asking for contributions over the phone can be a great alternative.

Asking for donations over the phone still gives you the personal touch that comes with asking in person, but it’s easier and more cost-effective than in-person meetings.

Getting started

1. Use the resources available to you.
2. Make your script personal.
3. Give your donors a compelling reason to give.
4. Don’t feel tied to your script.
5. Listen to the person on the other end of the line.

Asking for donations on social media

Social media is a powerful tool for your organization because it allows you to reach a global audience quickly. From Facebook to Instagram to TikTok, there are many platforms with different audiences for you to reach out to for support. As long as you’re posting regular content alongside your donation appeals, you can bring in donations simply by asking for them on your social platforms. You can also reach more people with your appeals on social media by using the paid advertising options offered by the different platforms.

Asking for donations on social media can be a quick and inexpensive way to reach a large audience and direct them to your online donation form.

Getting started

1. Start posting regular content (not just appeals).
2. Add a donation link to your page.
3. Post updates with a link to your donation page.
4. Engage with your donors on your posts.
5. Track your insights and analytics.

Example social media donation posts:

• "Meet Leo. 🐾 Thanks to supporters like you, he just found his forever home! But there are still so many pups waiting. A gift of just $15 provides a day of food and care for a shelter dog. Help us save more lives today: [Link]"
• "🚨 We only have 48 hours left to reach our $5,000 goal for the new community center! We’re 80% there—can you help us cross the finish line? Every dollar counts. Click the link in our bio to donate now! 💙 [Link]"
• "Want to double your impact? 👯‍♀️ Today only, all donations up to $2,000 are being matched by our generous sponsors at [Company Name]. If you’ve been waiting for the perfect time to give, this is it! Donate here: [Link]"

Asking for donations with direct mail

Donation letters are most commonly used for formal fundraising appeals to companies, businesses, and foundations. You can also use them to reach out to your more traditional donors who don’t have social media or email accounts for a more personal touch.

Because you have time to organize your thoughts before talking to donors, letters help you spell out your organization’s needs perfectly and demonstrate how much more money you require to reach your goal.

Getting started

1. Start with a bold headline.
2. Make your letter personal.
3. Tell a story in the body.
4. Make a sincere appeal.
5. Don’t forget a return envelope.
6. Say thank you in advance.

Asking for donations with emails

Emails are among the most common ways for nonprofits to ask donors for contributions, as you can send your appeal alongside regular updates about your organization’s events. Since many people check their email on their phones and laptops, emails can reach donors nearly everywhere.

Sending out emails is efficient and cost-effective, enabling your organization to reach more people at a lower cost than other methods.

Getting started

1. Create a bold subject line. For example: "How your $25 changes everything," "A special surprise inside…" or "Meet the puppy you just saved."
2. Make your ask near the beginning.
3. Describe why you’re asking for a donation.
4. Include links to your online donation page and contact information for donors who want to give by mail or phone.
5. Say thank you in advance.

Asking for donations with text

Asking for donations through text can help you reach your donors wherever they are and whenever it’s convenient for them. Text messages are usually checked quickly, increasing the likelihood of engagement.

By sending a text appeal with a link to your donation page, you can simplify the giving process and encourage spontaneous donations. You can also personalize your text appeals to make your donors feel valued and connected to your mission on a more individual level.

Getting started

1. Craft a compelling message.
2. Include who you are.
3. Be clear about what you’re asking for.
4. Link your donation form.
5. Say thank you in advance.

Example text message appeals:

• "Great news, [Name]! Today only, your gift to [Organization] will be matched dollar-for-dollar. Double your impact and donate here: [Link]"
• "[Name], our disaster relief team is on the ground right now, but we urgently need funds for clean water. Can you chip in $15 to help? Donate: [Link]"
• "Hi [Name]! Did you know that just $20 buys a new winter coat for a local child? Help us keep our community warm this season. Give here: [Link]"

Asking for donations with paid ads

Asking for donations with paid ads can help you increase your organization’s fundraising efforts. Paid ads allow you to strategically target audiences based on demographics, interests, and online behavior, ensuring you reach potential donors who are genuinely interested in supporting the cause. This allows your nonprofit to amplify your message across various digital platforms, increasing visibility and engagement.

Additionally, paid ads offer the flexibility to test different messaging to help you develop a more compelling campaign. By tracking metrics such as click-through and conversion rates, you can gain valuable insights into how well each fundraising campaign does and refine your strategies accordingly.

Getting started

1. Choose a targeted audience.
2. Create an eye-catching graphic.
3. Explain why you’re asking for a donation.
4. Provide links to your website and donation pages.
5. Say thank you in advance.

Wording tips: the best phrases to ask for donations

Even with a perfect strategy and the right audience, the exact words you use can make or break your donation appeal. To maximize your conversion rates, your language needs to be persuasive, donor-centric, and completely clear.

When drafting your appeals, keep these three core psychological communication principles in mind:

• Focus on you-centered language. Donors want to know that they are the heroes of the story. Shift the spotlight away from your organization ("we need," "our goal") and shine it directly on the donor ("your impact," "you can help").
• Use the "because" principle. Behavioral psychology shows that people are significantly more likely to comply with a request if you provide a reason. Connect the ask directly to a tangible outcome using the word "because."
• Stick to simple language. Avoid confusing nonprofit jargon, complex acronyms, or overly academic phrasing. Write simply and conversationally so anyone skimming your email or letter can immediately understand your message.

To help you put these principles into practice, here is a quick comparison of standard asks versus the best, highly optimized phrases you can plug into your own templates:

Short donation message examples

When you are reaching out to supporters via text message, social media, or brief email updates, brevity is your best friend. Attention spans are short, and screen space is limited, so you need to hook your reader and make the ask immediately.

Here are seven copy-ready, short donation messages you can adapt for your next quick campaign. Simply fill in the bracketed information with your organization’s specific details!

When to ask for donations

• National giving days: Participate in national giving days, such as GivingTuesday, a global day of generosity that follows Thanksgiving, to amplify your fundraising impact and engage donors through collective giving initiatives. GivingTuesday, which is intended to be a "global generosity movement unleashing the power of people and organizations to transform their communities and the world," has become wildly successful and is one of the biggest fundraising days of the year.
• Cause awareness months: Identify relevant cause awareness months related to your organization’s mission or cause and use them to raise awareness and funds. For example, Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October or Mental Health Awareness Month in May can serve as platforms for targeted fundraising campaigns and outreach efforts.
• End of year: The end of the calendar year (November-December) sees a huge spike in charitable giving, with 30% of all annual donations made in December alone! The end of the year is the perfect time for nonprofits to start ramping up their fundraising efforts by asking for donations.
• Local events and festivities: Capitalize on local events, festivals, and community gatherings to connect with donors and promote your organization’s mission. Sponsorship opportunities, booth exhibitions, and event partnerships can provide exposure and fundraising opportunities.
• Nonprofit fundraising events: Events offer a perfect opportunity to ask for donations in person without expending extra time and resources to meet with donors individually. At your next fundraising event, highlight the good work you’re doing and ask attendees for their support.
• Anniversaries: Mark your nonprofit’s significant milestones, such as founding anniversaries, program milestones, or achievements in impact metrics, with special fundraising campaigns, events, or recognition initiatives.
• During specific projects: When your organization is growing, you may need to raise money for specific projects, such as new buildings or special events. Create a campaign dedicated to each specific project to ask your donors to give a little extra to fund your nonprofit’s growth.
• During crises: When a crisis occurs, your organization may urgently need funds to directly help those in need. Whether providing relief for your community during a pandemic or raising funds to aid relief efforts from a natural disaster, your nonprofit should be prepared to ask for donations during a crisis.

By strategically timing donation solicitation efforts to coincide with seasonal trends, holidays, organizational milestones, and more, nonprofits can optimize their fundraising impact and cultivate meaningful connections with donors throughout the year.

Best practices for asking for donations

Asking for donations can be daunting, but with the right approach and preparation, you can significantly increase your chances of success. These tips for each stage of the donation solicitation process—before, during, and after the ask—will help you navigate this essential aspect of nonprofit fundraising effectively.

Before the ask

1. Understand that there is a process. Fundraising in all its forms requires a plan, a cohesive team, and a unified asking strategy.
2. Know your audience. Before reaching out to potential donors, take the time to research and understand their interests, values, and philanthropic preferences. Tailor your approach and messaging to resonate with their motivations.
3. Build relationships. Cultivate relationships with potential donors before making the ask. Engage with them through personalized communications, events, and updates about your organization’s work. Establishing rapport and trust beforehand can significantly increase the likelihood of a positive response.
4. Start with your existing connections and move outward. Your staff, volunteers, and existing donors are the ones who care the most about your mission. Start by asking them for donations, then move on to their connections.
5. Thoroughly research your donor base. Don’t go into an ask unprepared! Research your donors to determine the right amount to ask for and the right way to ask.
6. Know what story to tell. Storytelling helps you inspire your donors to give by letting them know the impact of their donation. Prepare an example of how your organization makes a difference through the donations you receive.
7. Prepare your pitch. Craft a compelling narrative that effectively communicates your organization’s mission, impact, and funding needs. Highlight success stories, tangible outcomes, and the urgency of your cause to evoke empathy and inspire action.

During the ask

1. Be genuine and authentic. Your donors want to give to an organization they can believe in. Communicate your sincerity during the donation appeal.
2. Be clear and concise. When making the ask, be clear and concise in your communication. Clearly articulate why their support is vital, how their donation will be used, and the impact it will make. Avoid overwhelming potential donors with unnecessary details.
3. Listen actively. During the conversation, listen attentively to the donor’s questions, concerns, and feedback. Give donors the chance to offer suggestions and impressions about your nonprofit and how donations are being spent. The more feedback you have from donors and prospects, the more prepared you will be to address their concerns and questions. Demonstrate genuine interest in their perspective and address any hesitations or objections with empathy and transparency.
4. Be prepared for something other than a "Yes!" Not everyone will immediately want to donate to your cause. Be prepared for "No," "Maybe," and everything in between.
5. Explain what the funds will go toward. People don’t just throw money at nothing. Tell them why their donations are needed and what they’ll help accomplish.
6. Provide options. Offer donors flexibility by presenting different giving options tailored to their preferences and financial capabilities. Whether it’s a one-time donation, recurring contribution, or in-kind support, providing choices can enhance their sense of ownership and engagement.
7. Create a sense of urgency. People often give more if they feel the need is more urgent. Establish an end date for your campaign to increase the sense of urgency for donations.

After the ask

1. Express gratitude more than once. Immediately after the ask, express sincere appreciation for the donor’s time and consideration. Regardless of the outcome, thank them for their support and commitment to your cause. Personalized thank-you notes or calls can leave a lasting impression.
2. Follow up promptly. Follow up with donors promptly, regardless of their initial response. Provide additional information, updates, or answers to any questions they may have raised during the ask. Consistent follow-up demonstrates your organization’s commitment to transparency and accountability. Give donors examples of what their contributions went toward. Show pictures, tell stories, and give your donors a reason to donate again.
3. Steward relationships. Continuously nurture relationships with donors beyond the initial ask through effective donor stewardship. Keep them engaged with regular updates, impact reports, and invitations to events or volunteer opportunities. Building a community of dedicated supporters is key to long-term fundraising success, and donor stewardship plays a pivotal role in fostering lasting connections and sustaining support for your organization’s mission.
4. Offer other opportunities for engagement. Don’t just let your supporters sit in your donor pool. Invite them to events, encourage them to pursue volunteer opportunities, and engage with them outside of the fundraising appeal.

By implementing these tips before, during, and after the ask, you can enhance your organization’s fundraising efforts and cultivate lasting relationships with donors who share your vision for positive change. Remember, effective donation solicitation is not just about securing funds—it’s about building meaningful connections and driving sustainable impact.

When a donor says no: bow out gracefully

As wonderful as it would be to have a 100% positive response rate to all your donation requests, the reality is that some people will say no.

While you can prepare your asks and make them as tailored as possible to your prospects, you have to be ready for a negative or ambivalent response. Not everyone is going to be as passionate about your cause or able to support you with donations.

If this is the case, ask them to contribute in a non-monetary way. If you still receive a "no," learn to gracefully bow out. Thank the prospect for their time, provide your contact information in case they change their mind, and invite them to engage with upcoming non-donation opportunities, such as volunteering or advocacy.

How to ask for recurring donations

While one-time gifts provide an excellent immediate boost, recurring donations—often called sustainer giving—are the foundation of a financially healthy nonprofit. Monthly donors provide predictable revenue and boast significantly higher retention rates.

However, asking for a recurring donation requires a slightly different approach than a standard appeal. Because you are asking for a long-term financial commitment, you need to emphasize ongoing value and convenience.

Here are the most effective strategies for securing recurring donations:

• Lead with a "monthly-first" approach. Many successful nonprofits now default their primary donation pages to a monthly recurring option. When supporters click your donate button, the form should automatically highlight a monthly gift, with a clear and easy option to toggle back to a one-time donation if they prefer.
• Target your repeat donors. The best candidates for a recurring program are the people who already give to you consistently. Filter your CRM to find supporters who have made two or more one-time gifts in the past year. Reach out to them directly and explain how a smaller, automated monthly gift might be easier on their budget while delivering greater impact for your cause.
• Show the sustainer math. Break down exactly what a monthly gift achieves over time. A donor might hesitate to give $120 all at once, but asking for "$10 a month" feels incredibly accessible. Tie that $10 directly to a monthly outcome (e.g., "Your $10 a month ensures one shelter dog receives their daily meals year-round").
• Brand your recurring program. Give your monthly giving program a specific identity. Instead of just asking people to "give monthly," invite them to join an exclusive community. Naming your program—like "The Second Chance Society" or "The Clean Water Collective"—gives donors a sense of belonging and identity.

Sustainer wording: one-time vs. recurring asks

When making a sustainer ask, your wording needs to shift from an immediate, urgent need to a focus on sustainability, community, and long-term impact. Here is how to adjust your phrasing:

Templates for fundraising letters and emails

Different asks call for different letters. Here is what each of the four most common fundraising letters is for, and when to send it, so you can draft your own version for each audience.

Standard donation request letter

The most basic fundraising letter you’ll write is for a standard donation. Your letters should differ depending on your relationship with the recipient. Standard donation letters can be used for your year-end fundraising push or during a specific branded campaign and should be personalized for each segment of donors, no matter the time of year.

Individual sponsorship request letter

Many organizations write letters to individuals and businesses requesting sponsorship for a specific event or fundraiser. These letters should explain exactly what the donation or sponsorship will help accomplish. They’re perfect for specific events or fundraisers that require significant backing.

Volunteer time templates

Volunteer time letters are requests for donations of time and effort. Your volunteers are crucial for your organization’s success. Invite them to work with you by using a letter. These letters can be used throughout the year but are most effective in preparation for a specific day or event.

Corporate donation templates

Corporate donation letters are sent to leadership members of local or national businesses or to the designated CSR coordinator at a corporation to seek monetary or in-kind donations from companies. While these letters may be sent on their own, they are often followed by an in-person meeting or phone call.

Time and money-saving fundraising tools

Having the right fundraising software and tools not only saves time, money, and headaches but also accelerates your nonprofit’s ability to secure more funds faster and more efficiently!

Mobile-responsive donation pages

It’s all well and good if your donation form looks great on a computer, but does it function as well on a smartphone or tablet? Make sure that your donors aren’t pinching, scrolling, and zooming just to give to your organization, and invest in a mobile-responsive donation page design to start collecting contributions from on-the-go donors.

Text fundraising tools

Fundraising events are great ways to interact with donors and raise more money, but most people only have credit and debit cards instead of cash or checks. Use text fundraising tools to encourage your donors to give without taking out their wallets at your next fundraising event!

Peer-to-peer fundraising pages

If you’re looking for a way to bring in more revenue and acquire more supporters, consider peer-to-peer fundraising. These fundraisers take advantage of your existing donor connections and put your donors in charge of their own fundraising efforts.

CRM integration

Contacting your donors is much more efficient and impactful when you use a unified giving platform that seamlessly combines fundraising, CRM, and volunteer management. Enter Bloomerang!

Relying on disconnected tools makes it harder to know exactly who, when, and how to ask for support. Instead, Bloomerang’s purpose-built CRM helps you track and automate communications, simplifying data collection for your team while providing the insights you need to make the right ask at the perfect moment.

Here is how Bloomerang’s robust donor management and fundraising features make asking for donations easier—and help ensure your asks are actually accepted:

• A 360-degree view of your supporters: Bloomerang provides comprehensive donor profiles and engaging timelines that track every donation, interaction, volunteer hour, and event attendance in one place. With built-in Generosity and Engagement Scores, you can effortlessly pinpoint your most loyal champions: Engagement Scores show who’s deeply committed, and Generosity Scores reveal who’s primed for bigger gifts.
• Penny, your AI fundraising partner: Penny is built directly into Bloomerang CRM—data never leaves the system. She acts as a strategic fundraising partner grounded in donor data: ask her real questions like "Who’s ready to give again?" and get clear, data-backed answers, plus guided recommendations on who to engage and what action to take next. Penny also helps you crush writer’s block by generating first-draft content for highly personalized appeals, allowing you to scale your outreach without ever losing the authentic human touch.
• Automated, targeted outreach: With Dynamic Groups, you can automatically group supporters in real time and deliver tailored messages that truly resonate. Journey Automation then creates multi-step workflows triggered by supporter behavior, nurturing supporters effortlessly toward their next major gift.
• Frictionless, optimized giving experiences: Getting a "yes" is much easier when giving is an absolute breeze. Bloomerang’s mobile-optimized donation forms use AI-powered Smart Amounts—dynamic suggested donation asks tailored to every donor. Furthermore, by offering flexible payment options like Apple Pay, PayPal, Venmo, and Tap to Pay, you remove friction from the checkout process and capture every ounce of support.

Learn more about Bloomerang’s full suite of fundraising and donor management tools here.

Asking for donations FAQs

Explore the ins and outs of asking for donations with these frequently asked questions:

Questions nonprofits have

1. When can a nonprofit start fundraising?

If your nonprofit is waiting on its 501(c)(3) status, you can still ask for donations.

However, those contributions aren’t tax-deductible until you are officially registered as a charitable organization with the IRS. It will be more beneficial to your organization to wait on fundraising activities until you’ve received your 501(c)(3) status from the IRS.

2. Do nonprofits need to register before they start fundraising?

A general timeline for registration goes like this:

• Register before you start asking for donations.
• Register in your home state (state of domicile) first and then in every state where you fundraise.
• If you accept online donations, register in New York and Florida because they require registration for any donations made, even if you aren’t actively asking for donations there.
• If you have an online donation form, register in every state you receive donations from. Your nonprofit can incur penalties and even felony charges for failing to register properly. Research the specific requirements for each state where you fundraise.

3. How should a nonprofit promote an online donation page?

Consider promoting your online donation form on the "Ways to Give" page on your website, including links and information about it in your emails, and posting links on your social media platforms. You can also talk about your online donation page at events, include a QR code in your direct mail materials, and mention it during your in-person meetings and during phone calls.

4. What are the ethics of fundraising?

These are some industry standards that nonprofits should follow when fundraising:

• AFP’s Code of Ethical Principles and Standards
• National Council of Nonprofits’ Ethical Fundraising
• CASE’s Principles of Practice for Fundraising Professionals at Educational Institutions
• U.S. Department of the Interior’s Fundraising for Your Favorite Cause

In addition, it’s imperative for fundraisers and nonprofit entities to regularly assess their conduct and align it with the organization’s ethical code.

5. What is an annual fund, and why do nonprofits need one?

An annual fund was once known as a fundraising campaign that kicked off at the same time each year. It usually had a theme with coordinating promotional and marketing materials.

However, an annual fund is now considered a nonprofit’s overarching plan or strategy, comprising many components and crucial to fundraising success. An annual fund helps your donors establish regular giving patterns, ensures more regular revenue for your organization, builds a more robust database, and boosts acquisition, retention, and average gift size year over year.

6. How much of a nonprofit’s revenue can come from the general public?

Public charities must receive at least a third of their fundraising dollars from members of the general public. As such, you shouldn’t rely too heavily on donations from your board members or staff.

7. How do you politely ask for donations?

To politely ask for donations, be direct but respectful of the donor’s boundaries. Clearly explain your cause, how their specific contribution will make a tangible impact, and offer a suggested donation amount. Use "you"-centered language, avoid guilt trips, provide easy ways to give, and genuinely thank them for their time—regardless of whether they choose to donate.

8. How do I ask for donations for a school?

When asking for donations for a school, focus on the direct impact on students’ educational experiences. Tap into your existing community by reaching out to parents, alumni, and local businesses. Clearly state exactly what the funds will buy—like new tablets or playground equipment—and offer easy ways to contribute, such as event sponsorships or a direct online giving page.

Questions donors have

1. Where can I find financial information about a nonprofit?

You can look up the annual IRS Form 990 on Candid’s website (formerly GuideStar), ask for the past three audited financial reports, ask for the unaudited year-end financial statements (if audited reports are unavailable), and ask whether the nonprofit has previously received federal grant dollars.

2. How can I support a charity?

Contributing to nonprofits encompasses more than just monetary donations. Individuals can make a difference by volunteering their time, donating goods, or offering their skills and services. Whether it’s lending a helping hand at a local event, donating essential items to those in need, or applying professional expertise to support organizational initiatives, there are numerous avenues to make a positive impact beyond financial contributions.

3. Is it safe to give online?

Some donors might have reservations about giving online, and that’s understandable. However, it’s essential to note that most nonprofits prioritize the security of donor data by using donation forms that comply with Payment Card Industry (PCI) standards. These stringent guidelines ensure that donor information is encrypted and cannot be compromised, offering peace of mind to donors. Look for donation forms displaying security logos and certifications, which serve as tangible evidence of adherence to PCI standards and further enhance trust and confidence in online giving processes.

4. How can I participate in peer-to-peer fundraising?

Peer-to-peer fundraising is a way for individuals to get in on the fundraising process. If a nonprofit is hosting a peer-to-peer fundraiser, you can volunteer to be one of the fundraisers, create your own fundraising page, and share it with your friends, family members, and coworkers. This way, you help raise money for a great cause and participate in a fun fundraiser!

5. Can I claim my charitable contributions on my tax return?

As long as you have a donation receipt from the nonprofit, you can claim your charitable contributions on your taxes.

According to the IRS, your donation receipt (also known as a written acknowledgment) for a charitable contribution of $250 or more must contain the following information:

• The name of the nonprofit organization
• The amount of the monetary contribution
• A description (but not value) of non-cash contribution(s)
• A statement that no goods or services were provided by the organization, if that is the case
• A short description and good faith estimate of the value of goods or services, if any, that the organization provided in return for the contribution
• A statement that goods or services, if any, that the organization provided in return for the contribution consisted entirely of intangible religious benefits, if that was the case

Moreover, donors are eligible to claim deductions for cash, check, or other monetary gifts, provided they maintain specific written records.

6. Will a nonprofit spam me with information?

Whenever you give out your personal contact information, you risk being inundated with direct mail and emails. However, you can also specify your preferred communication channels whenever you donate to a nonprofit. Nonprofits don’t want to drive you away, but they won’t know how often to contact you unless you specify a preference.

Final thoughts

Effective fundraising requires careful planning, strategic execution, and ongoing engagement with donors. By implementing best practices and using diverse solicitation methods, nonprofits can maximize their fundraising potential and cultivate meaningful relationships with supporters.

Donors play a pivotal role in driving positive change by contributing their time, resources, and expertise to support causes they care about. Addressing common questions and concerns related to fundraising instills confidence in your donors and fosters a culture of transparency, accountability, and trust.

Together, you and your donors create lasting social change and make a difference in communities worldwide.