This post was updated from a previous post from June 2016.
Today, people instinctively turn to the web to gather information about almost anything, whether they are getting the latest world news, seeking advice, or simply looking for an address. The web is where it’s at, making your nonprofit’s website a crucial element for your organization. It’s not only necessary to communicate information but also to establish credibility.
Websites can be costly. Despite the variety of prices and a number of design companies out there building a new nonprofit website can be more expensive than you imagined. You need to take into account the cost of the developers, time involved, and all-around effort that goes into your website creation. Knowing the limited budget your nonprofit has to work with fuels a the real question, which is how is my organization going to fund this project?
A well-run nonprofit will employ a fundraising strategy that seeks to raise funds through various channels. Diversifying your fundraising sources is also a good way to approach creating a budget for your new nonprofit website.
Think of your nonprofit website as an investment, not an expense.
Many nonprofits aren’t sure just what a new website will bring to their organization. It’s important to think of your website as a central marketing tool working to effectively and efficiently drive your nonprofit’s mission.
The truth is, your website is the face of your organization. Therefore, your page needs to directly reflect who you are as a nonprofit. It should be a well-oiled machine that directs visitors to accomplish tasks and convert potential donors.
The challenge?
How do you approach your nonprofit supporters and community to donate towards an item that could be viewed more as an administrative cost rather than a cause/mission-related cost? Below we have listed various benefits and tips that a new website can bring when conversing with others who may be less enthusiastic about funding a project like this. Another option we recommend is checking out Wild Apricot’s membership website free option as they have a pretty awesome membership website builder.
What makes your new nonprofit website a long-term investment?
- Generates a better user experience which can help you recruit more volunteers.
- Helps attract new visitors, meaning more donors.
- Builds and develops your credibility and authority within your community to gain sponsorships with potential local and industry-wide partner-organizations.
- Makes it easier for your nonprofit to “go green.” Automating manual tasks saves your nonprofit money and maximizes your staff’s time with more mission-related work.
Nonprofits can fund a new website through several routes: dedicated grants and technology funds, a designated line in the annual budget, a targeted capital or capacity-building campaign, major-donor or board sponsorship, and in-kind or discounted services. Framing the site as mission infrastructure, not an expense, helps make the case to funders and donors.
For the fundamentals behind every tactic here, see our complete nonprofit fundraising guide.
Funding a Nonprofit Website FAQs
How can nonprofits pay for a new website?
Options include grants and technology funds, a budgeted line item, a dedicated fundraising campaign, sponsorship from a major donor or board member, and discounted or in-kind design services. Many organizations combine several of these.
Are there grants for nonprofit websites?
Some foundations and capacity-building or technology grants can fund website projects, especially when framed as infrastructure that strengthens your mission. Look for funders that support operations and organizational capacity, not just programs.
How do we justify the cost of a website?
Frame it as essential infrastructure. Your site builds credibility, raises money, recruits volunteers, and communicates impact year-round. Tied to those outcomes, a quality website is an investment that pays back, not just an expense.
Can we fundraise specifically for a new website?
Yes. A focused campaign that explains how a better site will expand your reach and giving can resonate with donors, especially board members and major supporters who understand it as long-term capacity.
How much should a nonprofit budget for a website?
Costs vary widely with scope, features, and who builds it, so define your needs first. Our web design team can help you scope a site that fits your goals and budget.
