Non-Profit Web Design and Internet Marketing

Everyday, more and more nonprofits look to the internet as a way to increase awareness about their cause, and more importantly, encourage donations.

According to a 2004 study by Kintera and Luth Research, more than 75 percent of donors who go online before making a donation noted that going online made some impact on their decision whether or not to give, and more than 25 percent say the impact was significant.

So, what are some of the things donors look for on your nonprofit website before they click the "donate" button? Here's a quick list of 5.

• Mission - This is probably the first question that will pop into a donor's mind when they enter your website. Depending on where they found your link, they may/may not know what you do. Make it easy for them to find out. If your mission statement is not too long, place it at the same spot on every page. If it is, use a meaningful slogan instead. Example:

• Credibility - There is no shortage of organizations claiming to do one social good or another. Donors want to know if you are credible and trustworthy. Provide a visible link to your "About Us" page, and make sure to include pertinent information that sets you apart. Do you have a parent organization? Board of Directors? 501c3 (tax deductible) status? List them here. If you have a verifiable status (such as BBB accreditation) be sure to include it here (and perhaps on every page).
  Example:

• Testimonials - People love testimonials! They work for businesses and nonprofits. Do you have a "thank you" note or written account of the difference you're making? Leverage it.
• Urgent Needs - This may seem redundant, but donors actually want to know what they are donating towards. They know your mission, but where is the money going? For most people, a list of urgent needs or upcoming/on-going projects will do the trick.
• Donate Button - Another seemingly redundant one, but they can't donate if they can't find the button. Make it nice and attractive, and if possible, place it at the same spot on every page.

Have any more to add to the list? comment below.