What is text message fundraising, and how does it work?

Text message fundraising is a mobile giving strategy that allows organizations to engage supporters, accept donations, and share important updates via text message (SMS). By using custom keywords, automated messaging, and personalized outreach, nonprofits can increase donor participation, spread awareness, and drive fundraising results.

Why is text message fundraising so effective for nonprofits?

Text messages have an incredibly high open rate—typically over 90%—which means your message is more likely to be seen and acted upon. With personalized messaging, automated reminders, and easy donation links, text fundraising strengthens supporter relationships and increases engagement by making the giving process quick and seamless.

How can I use text message fundraising beyond donations?

Text message fundraising goes beyond collecting donations—it can be used to recruit volunteers, send event reminders, run contests, gamify engagement with scavenger hunts, and share real-time updates. It’s a versatile tool that helps nonprofits build stronger, more connected communities.

How can I make my text message fundraising campaigns more effective?

Depending on the capabilities of your text message fundraising tools, you can segment your audience to send tailored messages, use AI-powered content tools for compelling messaging, and track key metrics like clicks and donations to refine your approach. You can also ensure supporters recognize your messages by using a dedicated phone number with a local area code and a familiar sender name.

How do I track and measure the success of my text message fundraising campaigns?

A text marketing platform that integrates with your fundraising system (e.g., DonorPerfect and Constant Contact SMS) can provide meaningful analyses of your multichannel engagement results. You can use built-in analytics tools to monitor clicks, donations, unsubscribes, and overall engagement. Compare text and email campaign data, review detailed reports, and optimize future messaging based on performance insights to maximize donor impact and fundraising results.

Text message fundraising

Texting keeps you connected with your community

A “no-brainer” for today’s nonprofits*

*Sources: Forbes, 99firms

95%

of text messages are read within three minutes

91%

of people want to sign up for text messages, including text-to-give fundraising

95%

of marketers find text marketing helps raise revenue

Fuel impact with text message fundraising

Text message fundraising isn’t just a tool—it’s a game-changer for your mission. A well-timed message can spark action, deepen donor relationships, and rally supporters when it matters most. With every text, you’re not just spreading awareness—you’re inspiring generosity, fueling impact, and turning supporters into lifelong advocates. With the right strategy, text-to-give campaigns transform donor engagement into real-world change.

Learn how with DonorPerfect >>

Key features

LIST SEGMENTATION

Identify donors who prefer texts to deliver personalized messages that strengthen connections and inspire deeper engagement.

TEXT OPTIMIZATION

Create impactful SMS messages using AI tools, link shorteners, and live previews to improve clarity, engagement, and response.

SCHEDULED REMINDERS

Send targeted reminders about events and giving opportunities to keep supporters informed and inspired to take action.

CUSTOM NUMBERS

Use a dedicated local phone number and recognizable sender name to build trust and strengthen relationships with your supporters.

CUSTOM LINKS

Grow your donor base by capturing new contacts and SMS consent through customized opt-in forms and text-to-give links.

TEXT AUTOMATION

Streamline outreach with automated group texts, scheduled messages, and unlimited campaigns to maximize engagement and impact.

ENGAGEMENT REPORTING

Track key metrics like clicks, donations, and opt-outs to measure success and continuously refine your messaging strategy.

MULTICHANNEL ANALYSIS

Leverage detailed reports to compare text and email performance, optimizing future campaigns for better connection and results.

Simplify marketing with Constant Contact SMS

Interested in nonprofit marketing? Drive results with text message fundraising!

This exclusive integration allows you to create high-touch text campaigns with the leading nonprofit marketing platform. Provide direct links to your donation page, remind donors about events, and send time-sensitive updates!

DonorPerfect and Constant Contact SMS are better together:

Segment donors who prefer texts for effective messaging
Personalize messages with help from AI writing tools
Automate text campaigns with scheduled reminders
Track engagement metrics to refine future campaigns

GET A DEMO

For more advanced texting try DP Text

Our integrated text message fundraising tools not only empower you to accept donations and pledges, but also improve engagement outcomes by enabling volunteer recruitment, giving challenges, and event information!

Explore DP Text >>

Initially, I was concerned about the tech part because I’m not techy. But DP Text and the Giving Meter were very easy to use and contributed to the overall success of our event. I think it’s a great service…I’m really happy.”

– Leslie M., Development Manager, Serra Center

Frequently Asked Questions

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Role

Text message fundraising:

Send well-timed appeals that spark action