Giving Tuesday Shines Bright Again!

Highlights from 2024’s online fundraising results

From Stephanie Tippitt, SVP, Digital Strategy, BDI

Giving Tuesday did not disappoint this year among BDI’s Rescue Mission client partners. As the need for support was shared across multiple digital channels, donors rose up and met that need. 

BDI’s Digital Team is pleased to share these highlights and trends from this year’s results! 

1. Donors like to rally behind an annual cause.

Last year, Giving Tuesday performance was down for many organizations, and many wondered if its popularity would fade. According to the numbers, it did not!

Our organizations saw an average increase of 48% in the number of gifts. A simple graphic like this immediately shows the impact a gift can make!

2. Stay the course with multi-channel strategies.

Despite the dip last year, most of our client partners remained consistent with a strong multi-channel approach in their online fundraising, and it paid off. Though individual returns can vary, a well-planned Giving Tuesday campaign is an important part of your total fall fundraising strategy.

3. Try something new.

Add a new channel or add a match if you haven’t before. This year, clients that used Text Messaging strategies saw 10% of their Giving Tuesday revenue come from that channel. This is a great way to reinforce your messaging in other channels direct to your donor. 

One client that added in text messaging this year saw a 59% increase in total revenue on Giving Tuesday over last year. Another client partner who didn’t participate in our Giving Tuesday campaigns last year saw a 134% increase in revenue by adding email and paid media strategies this Giving Tuesday.

4. Don’t forget email!

And don’t be afraid to start early. BDI’s client partners sent email well before the day of Giving Tuesday, warming them up to the need and impact a gift would make to the people their organization serves.

5. Tie in a strong offer.

Clients who use a match or have a goal connected to a big-ticket item or project most often outperform those that do not.

6. Say thank you with a twist!

A “thank you” email following the Giving Tuesday push is important to not only appreciate donors for their support, but also give them an opportunity to give a gift in case they missed it on the day of. 

This year, BDI introduced a new strategy of “extending the match” after Giving Tuesday, and it created on average a 34% increase in the number of gifts and 128% increase in revenue from last year.

This year’s Giving Tuesday highlights the impact of thoughtful planning and creativity. Our client partners’ success reinforces the importance of a strong, multi-channel approach paired with innovation and heartfelt gratitude. 

Organizations met and exceeded expectations during this campaign by staying consistent, trying new tactics and engaging donors early – ensuring greater support for the communities they serve.