Text Messaging     
for Nonprofits

"Texting punches through the noise and connects with your supporters directly. The real game-changer for nonprofits with texting is that SMS messages have a whopping 98% open rate compared to email open rates averaging around 20%.

Plus, it's a great way to keep people in the loop about events, updates, and fundraising campaigns, making it easier to engage and get them involved in the cause. By tapping into the direct, secure, and personal nature of texting, nonprofits can really stand out from the crowd, engaging their audience in meaningful conversations and guiding them toward the next best steps to advance their mission." - Marco Raye, Content Marketing Manager 

• Increased Donor Engagement: Nonprofits that incorporate SMS marketing into their communication strategies often experience higher levels of donor engagement by way of their outbound messaging being received, opened, and engaged. Studies have shown that SMS campaigns can yield response rates as high as 45%, surpassing other marketing channels. The immediacy of SMS prompts supporters to take immediate action, such as making a donation or participating in your upcoming event.
   
• Improved Fundraising Results: SMS marketing has proven effective in driving fundraising efforts for nonprofits. Reports suggest that SMS appeals can generate higher response rates and donation amounts compared to other forms of communication. Some nonprofits have reported doubling or tripling their fundraising results after implementing SMS marketing campaigns.
   
• Enhanced Event Attendance: SMS is crucial in promoting nonprofit events and increasing attendance rates. By sending event reminders, updates, and last-minute notifications via SMS, nonprofits effectively reach supporters and boost event participation. SMS reminders have been shown to decrease no-show rates and increase overall event engagement.
   
• Targeted & Personalized Messaging: Nonprofits leverage SMS text marketing to deliver timely, targeted, personalized messages to their supporters. By segmenting their audience based on interests, demographics, or engagement history, nonprofits can send relevant content that resonates with recipients.
   
• Mobile-Friendly Giving: With the steadily increasing use of mobile devices, SMS marketing aligns well with mobile-friendly giving options. Using EZ Texting, nonprofits can embed shortened, trackable links in their SMS messages, directing recipients to mobile-optimized donation pages or crowdfunding platforms. This seamless donor experience helps facilitate quick and convenient giving, leading to higher conversion rates.

“Nonprofits can measure the success of their SMS marketing efforts by analyzing performance metrics in their EZ Texting reporting dashboard, including delivery rate, open rate, click-through rate (CTR), response rate, and subscriber growth. Together these metrics offer valuable insights into the reach, engagement, impact, and the ROI of your SMS campaigns. By regularly evaluating these indicators, your nonprofit can better assess the effectiveness of its messages, optimize content, and make well-informed decisions to improve future SMS marketing strategies.”

— Adam Houghtaling, Head of Content

“Yes! SMS marketing is perfect for targeting specific donor demographics or interests. All you need is their mobile contact number and consent to text.

You can segment your SMS subscriber lists within EZ Texting based on criteria such as shared similar interests, locations, preferences, volunteers, and more. By collecting and analyzing data from supporters, nonprofits can tailor their SMS messages to resonate with different segments of their audience more effectively. This allows for more personalized and targeted communication, ensuring that your contacts receive messages that are relevant and meaningful to them or their specific interest within your organization.

Effective segmentation and targeting can lead to higher engagement, response rates, donations, and ultimately, better relationships with your audience.”

– Adam Houghtaling, Head of Content

“Yes! It’s important that nonprofits follow all SMS compliance rules and regulations, but it’s also important to be aware of any regulations that may impact your nonprofit’s specific area of work. Below are some key considerations for all nonprofits.”

— Adam Houghtaling, Head of Content

• Consent: Nonprofits must obtain explicit consent from individuals before sending them SMS messages. This can be achieved through opt-in mechanisms, such as having supporters voluntarily provide their mobile numbers and agreeing to receive SMS communications. Consent should be freely given, specific, informed, and documented.
• Privacy: Nonprofits need to handle personal data collected for SMS marketing in accordance with applicable privacy laws, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the European Union or the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) in the United States. This includes safeguarding personal information, implementing data protection measures, and providing transparent privacy policies.
• Unsubscribe/Opt-Out: Nonprofits must provide an easy and clear way for recipients to opt-out of receiving SMS messages. Every SMS should include instructions on how to unsubscribe, such as by replying with a specific keyword. Once a recipient has opted out, their number should be promptly removed from the SMS list, and no further messages should be sent to them.
• TCPA Compliance: In the United States, nonprofits must comply with the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) when sending SMS messages. The TCPA regulates telemarketing and mandates certain requirements, including prior express written consent for promotional messages, clear identification of the sender, and the provision of opt-out mechanisms.
• Messaging Regulations: Nonprofits should be aware of any specific regulations or guidelines set by mobile network operators or regulatory authorities in their region. These regulations may include restrictions on message content, frequency, or commercial promotions. Complying with these guidelines helps ensure that SMS messages are delivered effectively and legally.