Social Giving: Trends And Tips For Growing Your Non-Profit With Social Media In 2025 | Martech Zone

Social giving refers to contributing to nonprofit, charitable, and religious causes through online platforms, emphasizing the power of social networks. Unlike traditional fundraising, which relies heavily on direct mail, phone calls, or in-person events, social giving leverages social media platforms’ expansive reach and interactive nature to connect donors with causes. This approach transforms giving into a communal, engaging experience that resonates personally and socially.

Why Social Giving Is Different

The social aspect of social giving is its defining feature. Social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter enable individuals to donate and share their giving journeys with friends, family, and followers. This creates a ripple effect, inspiring others within their network to contribute and amplifying the cause’s visibility far beyond what might be achieved through traditional methods. Features such as real-time sharing, peer-to-peer (P2P) fundraising campaigns, and integrated donation tools make social platforms uniquely positioned to drive participation, particularly among younger, tech-savvy donors.

Another advantage of social giving is its ability to foster community around a cause. Donors can interact with each other, share updates, and see the tangible impact of their contributions in real-time. This creates a feedback loop of trust and engagement, encouraging repeat donations and deeper involvement. Additionally, social giving provides nonprofits with invaluable tools to target and engage specific audiences through data-driven insights and personalized outreach, maximizing their fundraising potential.

In a world where digital interactions are increasingly shaping how we connect and contribute, social giving offers an innovative, accessible, and highly effective way for nonprofits to expand their reach and impact. By combining the reach of social media with the universal desire to do good, this approach represents the future of philanthropy.

Social Giving Trends

Social giving among national nonprofits continues to evolve as donors gravitate toward more personalized and convenient ways to support the causes they care about. Recent findings show that many individuals cite simplicity as a top reason for making a gift, alongside other motivations such as caring about a particular mission or wanting to help friends and family who are fundraising. These insights shed light on emerging opportunities for nonprofit organizations to enhance donor engagement and long-term retention.

Just over four-fifths of social donors reported that giving was very easy. This convenience-based motivation parallels a growing desire for flexible fundraising options, including online platforms and virtual events. Although many donors have embraced digital giving channels, the majority also indicate an interest in returning to in-person activities when circumstances allow. Many are already comfortable attending or sponsoring live events within the next few months.

Looking ahead, donors express a willingness to become more deeply involved by participating in various giving opportunities. These include making one-time gifts, contributing to specific campaigns, or supporting events like runs, walks, and rides. Some are also drawn to ongoing support, with nearly a quarter indicating they will likely become regular monthly donors. Nonprofits that streamline the donation process, offer virtual engagement options, and provide meaningful feedback on campaign impact will be well-positioned to nurture these valuable relationships.

Social Giving Takeaways

  • Ease of Donation: Most social donors found the process simple and user-friendly.
  • Multiple Motivations: Beyond mission alignment, personal connections remain a powerful incentive to give.
  • Virtual Engagement: Donors are open to online fundraising events and hybrid experiences, signaling the need to maintain flexible digital strategies.
  • Return to In-Person: Close to three-quarters of donors are ready for live gatherings, highlighting the importance of in-person opportunities.
  • Opportunities to Improve: Personal fundraising pages, live stream content, and interactive tools can enhance the giving experience.
  • Future Growth: Nearly one in four donors will likely transition into a monthly giving role, giving nonprofits valuable opportunities to cultivate lasting supporters.
social giving trends infographic


Source: martech.zone