Part of nonprofit financial management is managing existing resources to accomplish more work on behalf of members, donors, and the constituents you serve. When it comes to technology, it can be challenging to leverage existing resources when you’re looking to expand. Hiring a new employee? She’ll need a computer, access to software, and much more. Where are you going to find the resources?
There are several ways you can leverage existing resources or find the cash needed for vital technology upgrades. Whether you need new equipment to replace aging technology or you’re hiring and need to add hardware, these ideas can help you obtain the technology you need.
Ask Large Local Companies for Donated Equipment
Even if you prefer not to receive donated hardware from the general public, asking large, local companies to donate their old equipment may be worthwhile. Some nonprofits choose not to accept donated hardware because of issues pertaining to security, viruses, and the amount of work needed to refurbish used equipment. However, many of these concerns are mitigated with donations from large companies.
Many companies replace their existing equipment on a rotating schedule and so their donated equipment may be great compared to used equipment you can afford on your own. Because large companies have dedicated IT resources, chances are good that the machines and other equipment will be scrubbed clean of software and data before handed over to you, another plus.
If you don’t mind equipment that’s a little out of date, try forming alliances with large local companies to obtain their used equipment.
Hold a Special Donation Campaign
Often donors will give more money when they know where their money is being spent. By running a special computer equipment campaign and asking for specific donation amounts, you stand a better chance of achieving donation goals.
Consider a special email blast to your donors requesting $5 from each for new computer equipment or letting them know about a special need. Allocate donations so that they do not fall into the general donation category but are instead earmarked for a special campaign.
Ask Current Donors
In addition to a general fundraising campaign, you may wish to identify large donors from your current list of all donors and send a personal appeal to them for donations to support computer equipment campaigns. If you can tie in the need for new computers with how the equipment supports your organization’s mission, the appeal to your large donors will be stronger.
Look for Specials and Discounts
We know it sounds corny and trite: look for specials and discounts. Coupons? Really? Yes, really. They can make even the costly software more affordable.
Sign up for specials at office supply stores and websites. Comparison shop among both large retailers and small, local stores. Look for discounts on items if purchased in bulk, for example, if you buy several computers together from one vendor.
Nonprofit Financial Management Tips from Beck & Company
Where there’s a will, there’s a way, and when it comes to finding affordable computer equipment and software, nonprofits find many creative ways to provide their employees with the technology they need to get the job done.
Capital campaigns, special purchase campaigns, large donors, and even coupons and discounts can help you provide your workers with better hardware and software. Most people recognize that with the right tools, you can do so much more. That includes the right hardware and software, which can help your nonprofit serve its constituents and achieve its mission.
At Beck & Company, we work with many nonprofits to help them achieve their goals. We offer support and advice to nonprofits including nonprofit financial management, nonprofit accounting audits, and much more. Contact us today or call 703-834-0776.