Nonprofits, Let’s Talk About a Monthly Giving Program
44% of online donors are enrolled in a monthly giving program. (Source: Nonprofit Tech for Good) That means nearly half of donors are willing to set up automatic, recurring gifts — yet many nonprofits still rely on one-time donations and year-end appeals only.
If that sounds familiar, it’s time for some tough love. If your nonprofit doesn’t have a monthly giving program — or worse, if you’re not constantly, actively promoting it – you’re leaving money on the table.
Why Monthly Giving Matters
Monthly giving = predictable revenue. Predictable revenue = fewer sleepless nights worrying about cash flow. A well-structured recurring giving program can mean the difference between constantly scrambling for funding and confidently planning for the future.
And yet, many nonprofits — especially small and local ones — aren’t making this a priority. Why?
- They assume donors won’t sign up.
- They think it’s too complicated.
- They forget to ask.
What We Can Learn from Nonprofits with Giving Programs
I don’t bring this up to gain any kind of recognition, but simply to highlight a trend: in my opinion, ”international” nonprofits seem to do this better than many “local-only” nonprofits.
My family personally gives monthly to:
These organizations, and organizations like them, have made monthly giving the norm. They don’t just offer it as an option — they make it the obvious, easy choice. They frame recurring donations as a way to provide consistent support to children, families, and communities. Their messaging is clear, their process is easy, and they make donors feel like a vital part of their mission.
How to Fix This for Your Nonprofit
If your organization isn’t prioritizing monthly giving, here’s your action plan:
- Make it easy.
- Talk about it often.
- Frame it as impact-driven.
- Celebrate your recurring donors.
Need Help Implementing a Monthly Giving Program?
Implementing a successful monthly giving program can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. At mkw+co, I specialize in helping nonprofits develop and execute effective strategies, which can include the set-up and promotion of recurring donation programs. mkw+co’s expertise can guide you through:
- Program Design: Crafting a monthly giving program that resonates with your donor base.
- Technical Setup: Ensuring your donation platforms are user-friendly and optimized for recurring gifts.
- Marketing Strategies: Developing campaigns that effectively communicate the impact of monthly giving.
Ready to transform your fundraising approach? Contact mkw+co today to learn how I can assist you in building a sustainable monthly giving program that secures predictable revenue and strengthens donor relationships.
Let’s Make Monthly Giving the Norm
One-time gifts are great, but they won’t necessarily keep your organization running long-term. Monthly giving can. If your nonprofit isn’t offering an easy, clear, and compelling way for donors to commit to ongoing support, you’re making fundraising harder than it needs to be.
So let’s fix that.
About mkw+co
If you don’t make it anywhere else on my website, here’s what you should know. mkw+co is a boutique consulting firm specializing in strategic planning, executive coaching, marketing, and custom solutions for nonprofits and small businesses.