Digital Fundraising Strategies That Are Actually Working

A Fresh Take for Nonprofits Looking to Raise Real Support Online

There’s something about digital fundraising that can feel like shouting into the void sometimes. You post, you email, you boost a campaign… and then wait. 

But here’s the good news: some strategies are working — and not just for the big players with flashy marketing budgets. Small and mid-sized nonprofits are finding their rhythm online too, by being a little more creative, a little more honest, and a lot more human.

So, what’s actually moving the needle right now when it comes to a fundraising strategy for nonprofits? Let’s get into it.

1. Telling One Real Story — Really Well

You don’t need to tell 100 success stories. You need to tell one — and make people feel it.

Instead of listing numbers and statistics, zoom in. Share the journey of one person or one family your organization has supported. Use their name (with permission), their photo, their words. Let your audience see the problem and the transformation through real eyes.

And remember people don’t give to causes. They give to people.

2. Recurring Giving is the New One-Time Gift

One-time donations are great. But recurring donors? That’s your sustainability plan in action.

Here’s the catch — to win recurring support, you have to earn it. That means offering transparency, regular updates, and small perks like behind-the-scenes emails or impact snapshots just for monthly donors.

Make supporters feel like they’re not giving to you but giving with you.

3. Instagram Stories > Long-Winded Posts

You might think long captions equal authenticity, but people are often scrolling with half a second of attention to spare. Stories and short-form video are where connection happens now — especially with younger audiences.

Use quick polls, countdowns, behind-the-scenes clips, and real-time impact moments. It doesn’t need to be polished, it just needs to feel real.

Think of it this way: If your nonprofit was a person, what would it talk like on Instagram? That’s the vibe people connect with.

4. Micro-Influencers Are Your Secret Weapon

Forget chasing celebrity endorsements. Micro-influencers — people with a few thousand engaged followers — are proving way more valuable for nonprofits.

Why? Because they feel real, accessible, and trustworthy. Partner with a few who genuinely care about your work and give them creative freedom. Ask them to tell why they support you, not just what you do.

That personal endorsement? It’s digital gold.

5. Text-to-Give Is (Still) Surprisingly Effective

You’d think with all the tech around, SMS would feel outdated. But it’s not. In fact, texting donors — when done right — can feel more personal than email.

Set up a system where people can easily donate through a quick link in a text, especially during live events or campaigns. Just don’t spam. Use it for real-time moments — an urgent need, a campaign milestone, or a heartfelt thank you.

6. Peer-to-Peer Campaigns with a Twist

Peer-to-peer fundraising has been around for years, but what’s changing is how nonprofits are now coaching their fundraisers instead of just handing them a donation link.

Create simple toolkits with talking points, visuals, and ideas. Offer shoutouts or incentives. And check in with them — treat them like partners, not just helpers.

When supporters feel guided and appreciated, they’ll go the extra mile. (And their friends are more likely to give too.)

7. A Good Email Is Still Worth Gold

Despite all the noise, email is still one of the highest-converting tools in your digital fundraising kit — if you use it well.

Forget newsletters that read like annual reports. Write like a person talking to another person. Use a clear subject line. Tell a short story. Add one strong call-to-action. That’s it.

Don’t be afraid to be warm, even a little vulnerable. Honesty builds trust, and trust opens wallets.

So, What’s the Takeaway?

Digital fundraising doesn’t have to be loud, gimmicky, or overwhelming. The best strategies are the ones that feel genuine to you and your supporters.

What’s working in 2025 isn’t just the platforms or tools — it’s the approach: human-first, story-rich, and trust-driven.

At Chrysalis Services, we work closely with nonprofits to design and implement digital strategies that actually fit your voice, your audience, and your mission. Whether you need help building a campaign from scratch or making your current efforts more effective, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Your mission deserves more than a generic fundraising plan. Let’s build something that really works.