There are few better feelings when you work at a non-profit then when your organization receives a large gift. But small donations can be just as critical to your organizatimicro donations for your non profiton’s well-being. The latest trend in giving is the micro-donation- through days of giving (such as #GivingTuesday) or crowd-funded online giving sites. If your non-profit isn’t already soliciting these types of gifts, it’s time to start.

Don’t think twice

Micro-donations are gifts small enough that a donor doesn’t have to think twice about making them. Many people, citing budget constraints, are reluctant to make a one-time donation of, say, $200. Yet they may not think twice about giving $20 a month via an automatic checking account deduction — even though such donations will add up to more than $200 over a 12-month period. Simply put, micro-donations make giving doable for more people.

Micro-donations are particularly attractive to younger adults who are only able to give small amounts right now. As they become more financially secure, these micro-donors may become macro-donors to charities they have long-term relationships with.

Scale to size

To get micro-donors’ attention, include encouraging wording in your fundraising materials — for example, “Every dollar counts” or “No donation is too small.” Be sure to thank small donors for their contributions and let them know how you’re putting their money to work. Your nonprofit might not consider a $15 or $30 gift significant, but it could be a big deal for the person who makes it on a limited budget.

If the micro-donation is made in cash, provide the donor with a receipt, no matter how small the amount. You don’t have to substantiate micro-donations made via check, credit card or payroll deduction, but you should send a letter of acknowledgment anyway. A letter enables you to express your appreciation and encourage future support of your organization.

Clearly convey your message

Micro-donations can provide a significant revenue stream for nonprofits. But you need to make sure your organization’s message and its fundraising activities reflect the value of small donations and speaks to the people who make them.