There are four basic steps to creating an effective online fundraising strategy. Step 1: maximize your website. You should have three main goals with your website: to make sure your site is usable, to keep content the main focus, and to formulate strategies to increase traffic.
Design
1. Make sure your “donate” button clearly visible and near the top of the screen.
2. Connect with site visitors via surveys, contests, and other creative interaction.
3. Keep in mind that all different sorts of visitors will find your site. Make your format inviting and engaging for researchers, donors and casual web-surfers alike.
4. Make it easy for your supporters to spread the word about your organization. This could mean providing tell-a-friend, downloadable materials, and e-mail links.
Content
1. Remember that you are appealing to people, not ATMs. Connect with your audience on a personal level by highlighting what they are passionate about.
2. Increase incentive for others to join you by offering rewards for their participation.
3. Don’t be vague about why you’re asking for help. Make your mission statement or call to action clear and concise.
4. Make your site unique and memorable in a way that’s closely linked to your cause.
Traffic
1. Make your organization known on corporate partners’ sites. Doing so will increase interest and credibility for both of you.
2. Promote your organization’s events on event-listing sites such as CitySearch.com.
3. Make your site more searchable by utilizing AdWords and meta-tags.
Information taken from www.fundraising123.org
--Kelsey Luffman is a Research Assistant at Christian Foundation Grants (www.christianfoundationgrants.com) which is subscription database of foundations that provide grants to faith based organizations. iDonate.com is a website (www.iDonate.com) that allows ministries to receive non cash gifts online.