Every time we review results from a fundraising campaign (I mean, EVERY SINGLE TIME) our clients realize how much more money they could have raised if they only had a bigger email list.

Don’t live your life filled with regret, check out these tips on how to build your non-profit organization’s email list.

Invite your social media followers

We like these tips from Cause Vox, especially the section on social media, that explains how you can encourage your audience to subscribe by updating your Instagram bio, making posts count, and taking advantage of Facebook features. Don’t forget your Youtube channel! Tip #15 in this Hubspot article suggests using hyperlinked “end cards” to your videos to encourage subscriptions to your channel via the user’s email address.

Offer something of clear value

What do your subscribers get from signing up for your email list? People are more likely to subscribe if you offer content that is worth their time. This article from Constant Contact gives great examples of different free resources you can use to create value in each email you send to your supporters. We love when organizations create quizzes that educate and entertain. This article from Nonprofit Marketing Guide shows examples of non-profit quizzes that worked.

Collect email addresses at events

Make sure to offer an easy and accessible way for people to sign up for your email list at all of your events. Tip #4 in this article from Capital Business shows some different options. And don’t forget to add attendees from virtual events to your mailing list. This resource from OptinMonster recommends using Google Hangouts for your webinar (it’s free) and asking people to register with their email addresses. If you have any printed materials (brochures, event flyers, business cards) include a QR Code linking to the opt-in page (check out these Aweber tips on using QR codes).

Ask subscribers to share

Call upon your current subscriber to spread the word about supporting your amazing cause. The fourth and fifth tips in this Get Fully Funded article give details on making it easy for your newsletter subscribers to share with their contacts and using your email signature as a promotional tool.

Cross-promote

If your organization is offering unique, rewarding content, other organizations will find your content valuable too. Tip #8 from this article from Classy gives the fabulous suggestion to find other organizations to partner with to promote each other’s information.

Try a little competition

Leverage the drive to be competitive amongst your supporters and host a photo contest, a “best slogan” contest, or whatever best suits your cause. Contest entries all come with an email address which can rapidly grow your list with people who care.  See more tips like this in this Nonprofit Tech for Good article.