10 fundraising tips for small South African NGOs

Fundraising is hard for a small NGO with a big mission. These ten habits help.

1. Run one clear campaign at a time. "R350 buys one pair of school shoes" beats "please support our work".
2. Set a goal and show progress. A progress bar motivates donors to help you cross the line.
3. Make giving easy. Show your bank details, a reference and a way to send proof of payment.
4. Issue receipts straight away. Donors who get a receipt feel respected and give again.
5. Get Section 18A status if you qualify. It lets donors claim a tax deduction, and many corporates will only give to 18A organisations.
6. Tell stories. Short videos and photos of real impact work better than statistics.
7. Update supporters regularly. A short monthly update keeps donors engaged.
8. Use WhatsApp. Share your campaign link in groups, and ask supporters to forward it.
9. Thank people publicly. With permission, recognise donors in your announcements.
10. Report back. Show where the money went. Transparency is your best fundraising tool.

myOrganizationApp gives non-profits a giving page, campaigns with goals and automatic receipts, free to start.