QR Codes for Nonprofits and Fundraising: A Complete Guide

Estimated reading time: 8 minutes

Key Takeaways

• QR codes simplify donations for nonprofits by linking directly to payment pages.
• Nonprofits use QR codes to raise awareness by linking to informative content.
• QR codes improve volunteer sign-ups with instant access via mobile.
• They are low-cost and easy to implement, connecting the physical and digital worlds.
• Tracking QR code scans provides valuable data to enhance future campaigns.

Table of Contents

• Understanding QR Codes for Nonprofits
• Benefits of Using QR Codes for Nonprofits
• Implementing QR Code Donation Links
• Charity Fundraising QR Codes
• Using QR Codes for Awareness Campaigns
• QR Code Volunteer Signup
• Best Practices for QR Codes in Nonprofit Marketing
• Tools and Resources for Creating QR Codes
• Conclusion: Why QR Codes for Nonprofits Matter
• Additional Resources

Understanding QR Codes for Nonprofits

Keywords: qr codes for nonprofits, qr code for awareness campaign, qr code donation link, charity fundraising qr code

A QR code (Quick Response code) is a small square barcode. When scanned using a smartphone, it opens a digital action like:

• Visiting a donation page
• Showing event information
• Signing up for something
• Learning more about a cause

How nonprofits use QR codes:

• Donation links: Link directly to payment pages
• Awareness: Send people to videos, facts, or petitions
• Events: Share location and time info instantly
• Volunteering: Let people sign up right away

Workflow:
Scan → Open donation or info page → Complete action

QR codes connect the printed world to the digital one fast. According to Tlinky, they let supporters act the moment they're inspired.

Benefits of Using QR Codes for Nonprofits

Keywords: qr codes for nonprofits, qr code donation link, qr code volunteer signup, charity fundraising qr code, qr code for awareness campaign

Here's why nonprofits love QR codes:

• Fast access: No typing—just scan and go.
• Easier giving: One tap sends donors to a payment page.
• Better campaigns: Use mobile engagement for quick reach.
• Volunteer help: Let people sign up on the spot.
• Low cost: Free or cheap to make—no fancy tech needed.
• Track actions: Some QR codes collect scan data like location or time.

Tlinky reports that nonprofits using QR codes saw more donations, faster actions, and better turnout at events.
Source

Implementing QR Code Donation Links

Keywords: qr code donation link, qr codes for nonprofits, charity fundraising qr code

Here's how to make a QR code that leads to donations:

1. Pick a donation platform: Try GoFundMe or Givebutter.
2. Copy your donation link: It should be secure (start with https).
3. Use a QR generator: Good free options are QRCode Monkey or Canva.
4. Download and test: Make sure it links to the right place.

Where to put your QR code:

• Posters and flyers
• Fundraiser shirts
• Event signs and slideshows
• Emails and newsletters
• Social media graphics

Security tips:

• Direct to known URLs only.
• Add your logo if possible for trust.
• Test it—on Android and iPhone.

Tlinky's research shows that branded QR codes at events help increase donation rates.
Source

Charity Fundraising QR Codes

Keywords: charity fundraising qr code, qr codes for nonprofits, qr code donation link

Use QR codes in creative fundraising ways:

• Auction tables: Let bidders donate or pay.
• Event entrances: Post QR codes for easy access.
• Large screens: Show real-time donation links.
• Social media: Add QR codes in images.
• Outdoor banners: Let walkers and drivers scan.

Real examples:
Relay for Life and Red Cross use QR codes on event signs, mailers, and donation booths.

Track performance:
Many QR tools show:

• How many scans
• What devices were used
• Whether a donation was made

Tlinky found event-based QR codes increased onsite giving by 27%.
Source

Using QR Codes for Awareness Campaigns

Keywords: qr code for awareness campaign, qr codes for nonprofits, qr code donation link

QR codes aren't just for money—they teach and inspire.

Where to use them:

• Posters and billboards
• Coffee shops and gyms
• Schools and colleges
• Branded shirts and bags
• Direct mail

What they link to:

• A video about your mission
• A page explaining your impact
• A petition or survey

Case Example:
One environmental group boosted visits to their site by 35% by placing QR codes in key areas of their city.

As Tlinky notes, QR codes reach new, mobile-friendly audiences, especially younger ones.
Source

QR Code Volunteer Signup

Keywords: qr code volunteer signup, qr codes for nonprofits, qr code for awareness campaign

Getting volunteers is easier when you make sign-up fast.

Steps to create a signup flow:

• Use a tool like Google Forms or Airtable
• Build a short, mobile form
• Create a QR code to link to your form page

Post it here:

• Community boards
• Recruiting emails
• Volunteer T-shirts
• Campus flyers

Pro Tip: Keep the form simple—name, email, and interest area.

Youth nonprofits using QR sign-ups have cut paperwork and increased show-up rates.
Source

Best Practices for QR Codes in Nonprofit Marketing

Keywords: qr codes for nonprofits, charity fundraising qr code, qr code volunteer signup, qr code for awareness campaign

Design tips:

• Use black on white or bright contrast
• Keep space (quiet zone) around the code
• Add your logo if it still scans well

Where to place:

• Eye-level (waist to chest height)
• Well-lit spots
• Avoid corners or busy backgrounds

Messaging ideas:

• "Scan to Donate"
• "Join Us—Scan Here"
• "Scan & Learn Why We Serve"

Track your results:

• Use QR tools that show:
• Scan time
• Device used
• Location (if available)

Tlinky says scan tracking helps boost future campaigns with real data.
Source

Tools and Resources for Creating QR Codes

Keywords: qr codes for nonprofits, qr code donation link, charity fundraising qr code, qr code volunteer signup

Free tools:

• QRCode Monkey
• Canva QR Code Generator

Paid/advanced:

• Beaconstac
• QR Tiger

These offer:

• Scan tracking
• Branding tools
• Dynamic QR code updates

Integrated nonprofit tools:
Donorbox, Givebutter, and other digital fundraising platforms

Tlinky recommends platforms with analytics and branding features for professional use.
Source

Conclusion: Why QR Codes for Nonprofits Matter

Keywords: qr codes for nonprofits, qr code donation link, charity fundraising qr code, qr code for awareness campaign, qr code volunteer signup

QR codes help nonprofits do more with less.

They're:

• Easy to make
• Fast to use
• Affordable (often free)
• Great for connecting online and offline worlds

Use them to:

• Raise donations
• Drive awareness
• Find volunteers
• Track how well your campaign works

Start small. Build your first QR code. Test it. Then grow from there.

Additional Resources

Keywords: qr codes for nonprofits, qr code donation link, qr code for awareness campaign, charity fundraising qr code, qr code volunteer signup

Helpful links:

• Tlinky's full guide
• QR Code Generator Tutorial (YouTube)
• Givebutter for Nonprofits
• Beaconstac Analytics Demo

Need help getting started?

📞 Call Us: (833) 723-2800
✉️ Email: customercare@qrscanning.com
🌐 Visit Us: www.qrscanning.com