Digital Marketing For Charities Series: Getting Started With Google For Nonprofits
In the current economic climate, charities need to make the most of all the tools available to them. Google For Nonprofits is a fantastic program that provides access to various Google products and services for free. This can help you reach more people, have a bigger impact and stretch your marketing budget.
This is an essential addition to any marketing mix for charities and one we encourage all our clients to have set up.
Who Is Eligible For Google For Nonprofits ?
To join Google For Nonprofits, charities need to meet certain requirements. In the UK, this means being a registered charity with one of the national bodies e.g. Charity Commission. Signing up is easy, and Google provides a clear guide to help with the process. Once accepted, charities can access a range of useful tools and resources.
What is included with Google For Nonprofits?
1. Google Ads Grants:
For me, Google Ad Grants is the standout feature of Google For Nonprofits. If you use nothing else make sure you sign up for this. Eligible charities get up to ~£8,000 each month in free advertising credits. This helps you reach new supporters through targeted ads on Google. You can use Google Ad Grants to:
Increase fundraising
Boost staff recruitment
Improve volunteer engagement
Increase awareness of, and access to any key resources you have on your site
There is a separate application step to go through but this is relatively straightforward and well worth the effort.
ARC offers digital marketing training and support for charities looking to get started with Google Ad Grants. We help troubleshoot any start up issues and optimise your account once it is up and running. Contact us if you would like to take advantage of our free consultation.
2. YouTube Nonprofit Program:
Charities can create a custom YouTube channel for free through this program. They can use it to share videos and stories, reaching a wider audience and inspiring action. YouTube is the second largest search engine in its own right and has 122 million daily users.
The vertical video format is fantastic for engagement, charities can use this to make sure their message reaches new audiences.
Video content on YouTube can also be incorporated into a wider SEO strategy for your charity or used on your Google Business Profile as part of your local SEO activity
3. G Suite for Nonprofits:
This includes tools like Gmail, Google Drive, and Google Docs, which are all free for eligible charities. These tools help teams work together better, communicate easily, and focus more on their main goals.
4. Google Maps APIs:
This allows charities to integrate maps into their websites and promotions, making it easier for supporters to find events and get involved.
5. Google Cloud Platform:
This offers various tech tools, from data analysis to storage. Google Cloud Platform helps charities use technology to innovate and achieve their goals.
Google for Nonprofits Success Stories
Many UK charities have already benefited from Google For Nonprofits. For instance, we have been working with St Clare Hospice to use Google Ad Grants to increase recruitment for key positions. This has resulted in an increased number of applications for specialised healthcare positions.
In Summary
Google For Nonprofits is a fantastic opportunity for UK charities to boost their online presence and make a bigger impact. By using these tools, charities can reach more people, connect with supporters, and achieve their mission.
If you're eligible, it's worth signing up to unlock Google's offerings for nonprofits. Contact us today to find out how
