Fundraising with QR Codes: A Smart Way to Boost Support

Benefits of Using QR Codes for Fundraising

QR codes enhance the speed and convenience of fundraising by attracting tech-savvy donors. The benefits include:

• Instant Mobile Giving: Donors can scan and donate within seconds.
• Increased Participation: Simplicity of use encourages more people to participate.
• Real-Time Tracking: Allows organizers to track donations and engagements happening in real-time.
• Multimedia Integration: QR codes can link to videos or stories that resonate emotionally with supporters, encouraging more donations.
• Cost Savings: Digital codes can be reused in multiple campaigns, reducing print costs.
• Versatility: Can be used for auctions, check-ins, direct donations at in-person events, and more.

Examples of QR code usage could be on event tickets, silent auction tables, banners, receipts, and more. Source

How to Create QR Codes for Fundraising

Creating a QR code for fundraising can be quick and simple by following these 5 steps:

1. Choose a QR Code Generator: Start with qrscanning.com.
2. Select Your Link: The QR code could link to a donation page, sign-up form, or an impactful video.
3. Customize the QR Code: Add your organization's logo, pick brand colors, and include a compelling CTA like "Donate Now!".
4. Test the QR Code: Scan your QR code with a variety of phones and tablets to ensure it works properly.
5. Download and Share: Once the QR code is working perfectly, download it and add it to posters, flyers, and websites.

Customizing your QR code design with your brand colors and logo not only instills trust in the users but also grabs their attention. Source

Integrating QR Codes into Fundraising Materials

Maximize the effectiveness of your QR codes by thoughtfully integrating them into various fundraising materials. This helps you to engage donors wherever they interact with your campaign. Here are some potential options:

Print Materials:

• Event posters
• Brochures and flyers
• Direct mail letters

Digital Spaces:

• Emails and e-newsletters
• Social media posts
• Website donation pages

Creative Placements:

• Banners at galas
• Staff name badges
• Event merchandise or tickets

For effectiveness:

• Ensure that your landing pages are mobile-friendly since QR codes are typically scanned using mobile devices.
• Print the QR codes large enough to be easily scanned by smart devices.

Additionally, consider placing the QR codes on receipts, thank-you cards, or table tents at events to increase engagement. Source

Best Practices for Fundraising with QR Codes

Follow these tips to enhance the efficiency of your QR code fundraising efforts:

• Use Clear CTAs: Always indicate what the QR code does- whether it's for donations, signing up for events, or others. E.g., "Scan to Donate."
• Test Everywhere: Prior to launching your campaign, thoroughly test your QR Codes on different devices and in various lighting conditions.
• Use Safe Links: Ensure to link only to secure and trusted fundraising websites with HTTPS protocols.
• Provide Options: In addition to QR codes, provide web links or phone numbers for donations to cater to non-scanning donors.
• Educate your Team: Make sure your staff and volunteers understand how the QR code works so they can help donors successfully use your QR codes.

Always include instructions beside your QR code to guide users on how to scan and use it. Source

Case Studies: Successful QR Code Fundraising Campaigns

Here are some examples of successful QR code fundraising campaigns:

• Silent Auction Events: QR codes were used on table signs that guests could scan to place their bids. This resulted in a surge in bid numbers and increased donations.
• Gala Ticketing: Event attendees received invitations with QR codes, which were scanned to RSVP. The campaign saw an increase in registration, and the team was able to track all RSVPs in real-time.
• Mail Campaigns: A non-profit included QR codes on thank-you cards and the results were astounding. The campaign generated more repeat gifts from donors.

The key success factors in these campaigns were clear CTAs, high visibility placement, mobile-friendly links, and rigorous testing. Source

Tools and Resources for QR Codes in Fundraising

Get started on a strong note with these tools:

• QR Code Generator: Use qrscanning.com to create custom QR codes for your campaign.
• Analytics: Use Google Analytics or other tools integrated with your fundraising software to track the performance of your QR code campaigns.
• Design Resources: Use tools like Canva for QR code flyers and HubSpot for tips on email and CTA designs.

For more QR code campaign ideas, refer to the guide by Swell Fundraising: https://blog.swellfundraising.com/10-ideas-for-using-a-qr-code-in-fundraising.

Measuring the Effectiveness of QR Code Fundraising

To gauge the impact of your QR code fundraising campaign, consider measuring these key parameters:

• Number of Scans: Track the frequency of the code being scanned by potential donors.
• Donation Amounts: Tally the total amount raised through each QR code.
• Conversion Rate: Compare the number of scans to the successful donations made.
• Repeat Supporters: Track the number of people who scanned and donated more than once.

Extra tips:

• Perform A/B tests on various QR code designs and placements.
• Share the success and insights from your campaign with your team and board members.
• Use the campaign data to plan future initiatives more effectively.

Keeping track of these performance metrics not only measures your campaign's success but also provides insights for your future campaigns. Source

Conclusion

Fundraising with QR codes is a smart, modern, low-cost method to raise money. Its quick set-up, real-time tracking, and encouragement of mobile giving make it an effective tool to boost your fundraising efforts.

Ready to start? Follow these simple steps:

1. Visit qrscanning.com.
2. Create your own branded QR code.
3. Conduct a test run on your QR code.
4. Integrate it into your next fundraising campaign materials.

For more examples and ideas, you can refer to this guide by Swell Fundraising: https://blog.swellfundraising.com/10-ideas-for-using-a-qr-code-in-fundraising.