In an attempt to discover new ways to fundraise for your business, you might be trying things like live streaming or sitting down trying to understand the new ways to pay. Regardless, there is one question that you must always ask yourself: how will you prepare for this? Today, donors expect their donating experience to be as smooth and seamless as possible. They want the ability to donate precisely the way they want to donate, whether through cheques or mobile payment. Being able to cater to these types of payments can be challenging, especially with the ever-changing technological landscape. However, knowing how to utilize these technologies to your benefit will help ensure that you are on top of this evolving fundraising landscape.
That said, here are the technologies you must implement to maximize your fundraisers:
1. Mobile Payments
The first on the list is mobile payments which, in essence, is the ability to process payments through mobile devices. This is one of the most popular and accessible payment methods of the moment. This method is also more convenient for donors, as they can provide their credit card information through their mobile devices and receive reminders. It’s also a great way to quickly and conveniently accept donations on-site at fundraisers and events.
2. Digital/Online Payments
Another excellent method of payment is digital or online payments. This is where you collect donor information, generate donations online, and process payments through your organization’s online donation page. This is incredibly convenient for donors, as the process is quick, easy, and secure. It also allows donors to make donations at their own leisure, making it convenient to donate whenever they feel like it.
3. Debit/Credit Cards
When it comes to credit and debit card payment, this is the most popular one of them all. You simply ask the donor to swipe their credit or debit card, which gives you access to funds. Additionally, credit card payments can be processed through online portals, making it one of the most secure payment methods. However, using credit cards can be costly. Major credit card companies like VISA will charge you a fee for every transaction.
4. Cheque/Cash
As simple as it may be, cash is still one of the go-to ways for donors to donate. However, cash payment can be costly for you as an organization. For starters, cash presents a security risk. It is easy for someone to steal cash from your organization. In addition, cash is susceptible to theft, which can be another issue.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are many ways to accept payments from donors. While some might be more convenient for them, some may be more convenient for you. However, there is one thing you must always remember: ensure that your business is working with a digital payment service provider that has a flexible and supported integration that will give you the necessary support. Don’t waste your time on a digital payment service provider that doesn’t support mobile, cheque, and credit card payments. The future shows that such channels for donation are only going to get more popular, so by using a provider that offers digital payment services, you future-proof your organization!
Apphienz is a Salesforce consulting partner helping clients maintain their Salesforce instance while developing brand-new applications. If you are looking for Salesforce for nonprofits to maximize your success, work with us today!