Best Texting Platforms for Non-Profits

What Are Texting Platforms for Non-Profits?

Texting platforms for non-profits are specialized software solutions that  help organizations to communicate with supporters, volunteers, and donors through text messages. These platforms offer various features designed to streamline communication, boost engagement, and facilitate fundraising efforts. Texting platforms can help non-profits raise more money, spread mission themes, and mobilize volunteers.

‍

Is Text-to-Give Free?

Text-to-give services are not typically free, although some platforms offer basic plans with limited features at no cost. Most text-to-give platforms operate on a pricing model that includes:

1. Monthly or annual subscription fees
2. Transaction fees (usually a percentage of each donation plus a fixed amount)
3. Additional charges for extra features or keywords

While some providers like Evant offer an extended free trial for eligible non-profits, it's important to note that there may still be transaction fees from payment processors.

‍

Best Texting Platforms for Non-Profits

1. Evant: The top choice for non-profits, offering  texting features, seamless integration with other fundraising tools, and text-to-give abilities with Stripe.
2. Emitrr: Provides a range of texting features, including two-way messaging, group texting, and mass texting capabilities.
3. Texting Base: Offers text message scheduling, mass messaging, and SMS marketing features.
4. Tatango: Specializes in SMS messaging for non-profits with features like broadcast messaging and A/B testing.
5. Power Textor: Includes AI-powered responses and bulk texting capabilities.
6. ClickSend: User-friendly platform with affordable pricing and support for SMS fundraising campaigns.
7. Bonterra Fundraising and Engagement: Provides a dedicated toll-free number and custom keywords for various communication needs.
8. Qgiv: Offers text-to-donate services with quick setup and custom keyword options.

‍

Key Features & Points of Texting Platforms for Non-Profits

1. Two-way texting: Enables real-time conversations with supporters and volunteers.
2. Group texting: Allows communication with specific groups of contacts.
3. Mass/bulk texting: Facilitates sending messages to large numbers of supporters simultaneously.
4. Keywords: Helps engage supporters more effectively through specific text commands.
5. Text-to-give functionality: Enables donors to contribute via text message.
6. Automated responses: Set up automatic replies based on specific keywords or actions.
7. Reporting and analytics: Track metrics such as open rates, response rates, and donation amounts.
8. Integration capabilities: Connect with existing CRM systems and other fundraising tools.
9. Personalization: Tailor messages to specific donor segments.
10. Scheduling: Plan and automate message sending for future dates and times.

‍

Benefits of Non-Profits using SMS

Non-profits can really enhance their communication and fundraising efforts by leveraging SMS platforms. With an impressive 98% open rate and quick response times, text messages provide a direct and efficient channel to reach supporters. SMS enables personalized communication at scale, allowing organizations to engage in  many one-on-one conversations simultaneously or launch mass texting campaigns. This approach not only improves donor engagement but also streamlines fundraising initiatives, event promotions, and volunteer coordination. Additionally, SMS campaigns are cost-effective and environmentally friendly compared to traditional marketing methods, making them an ideal choice for non-profits with limited budgets.

Read more in our SMS for Nonprofits guide.

‍

How to Set Up a Texting Platform for a Non-Profit

1. Choose a platform: Research and select a texting service that best fits your organization's needs and budget.
2. Sign up and create an account: Register with the chosen platform and provide necessary information about your non-profit.
3. Set up your texting number: Obtain a dedicated phone number or short code for your organization's texting campaigns.
4. Import contacts: Upload your existing supporter and donor contact lists to the platform.
5. Create message templates: Develop templates for common communications like thank-you messages, event reminders, and donation requests. Read more in our text message templates guide.
6. Set up keywords: Establish custom keywords for different campaigns or actions.
7. Configure integrations: Connect the texting platform with your existing CRM or donor management software.
8. Train staff: Ensure team members understand how to use the platform effectively.
9. Test the system: Send test messages to verify functionality and troubleshoot any issues.
10. Launch your first campaign: Start with a small-scale texting campaign to gauge effectiveness and gather feedback.
11. Monitor and optimize: Regularly review analytics and adjust your strategies to improve engagement and results.

By following these steps and leveraging the features of a robust texting platform, non-profits can enhance their communication efforts, increase donor engagement, and streamline their fundraising initiatives