Online philanthropy

And diversifying fundraising strategies

By Faye Yoshihara (Pontes Consulting)

This plenary session of the conference focussed on diversification of funding streams through internet based fundraising platforms and self-financing strategies. In workshops, participants explored how technology tools can help grass-roots organisations increase awareness of their programs and diversify their donor base and donor communication strategies. Global Giving - a website for linking projects and potential funders - was introduced. Project leaders were shown how to take the first steps to start fundraising on-line. Furthermore, the workshop presented examples of income generating strategies. Participants determined whether this could be an appropriate strategy for their organisation. They learned about self-financing strategies with the NESsT process. And they evaluated their own website with the ePhilanthropy tips & checklist. Inspiration and ideas to improve fundraising have been taken home.

Tips and tools for online strategies from the ePhilanthropy Foundation

The online philanthrophic market has grown to a staggering $4.5 billion in 2005. USA donations make half of the market. Online fundraising will continue to grow and develop so it is important to get on board. There are many organisations providing support and knowledge on internet for NGOs that want to make the next step, for instance the  Philanthropy Foundation.

Sport section launched on Global Giving

GlobalGiving connects the public with grassroots charity projects around the world. The organisation ensures that 85-90% of donations gets to the local project leaders within 60 days. It's a direct connection between givers and project leaders. After Casablanca 2006 it was clear that participating organisations want to broaden their reach. Organisations in the field of sport and development have to diversify their fundraising strategies and find new ways to look for donors. Nike therefore has sponsored the set up of a sports section on the website of Global Giving. This instrument will help to create a movement. The address is www.globalgiving.com/sport.html

For more info on this conference report, read the full section about online philanthropy & diversifying fundraising strategies (pdf).

More info

  • Full report online philanthropy & diversifying fundraising strategies (pdf)
  • Presentation 'On-line Philanthropy & Diversifying your Fundraising Strategies' by Faye Yoshihara (power point, pdf)
  • Presentation on NESsT by Faye Yoshihara (power point)
  • Presentation 'What works online' Ted Hart, ACFRE, ePMT, President and CEO ePhilanthropy Foundation (pdf)
  • FAQ about Global Giving (word)
  • Tools for promoting your project (word)
  • Due dilligence checklist (word)
  • Anti terror certification (word)

Faye Yoshihara (Pontes Consulting)

See also