Searching for engagement in an ever-changing world that values authenticity

non-profit industry

The non-profit sector is facing enormous challenges. The high-speed train of digitisation, the continuous need to reinvent your organisation for the next awareness campaign, and the constant influx of new members, to name but a few. Even the challenge of finding employees, where the competition to attract talent in the public sector is increasing. And like everyone else, NGOs are feeling the pressure on their operating resources. Their fiscal capacity is shrinking. At the same time, there are more humanitarian crises, more refugees, and more people in need. By using the relevant digital solutions, that are developed specifically for the needs of NGOs, they can increase the positive impact they have in society.

Engagement is more than just the necessary 'likes'

Profit and non-profit organisations use the same marketing channels to reach their target audiences, yet approaches differ significantly. For-profit organisations often want to persuade consumers and encourage direct purchases. Non-profits often seek to build awareness first with thoughtful storytelling, hoping to recruit support and attract donations for their mission. Marketing for charities is not about selling products, but about highlighting a mission. The goal is not to convince everyone, but rather to reach a specific target group that shares the same values and supports the cause. This also requires a strategic approach — with a creative concept, marketing plan, media mix, and the focused use of your entire digital ecosystem.

non-profit industry

Why iO has a heart for non-profit organisations

iO's experts work every day with the same goal in mind: to make as much impact as possible by delivering the right added value for our customers. Our colleagues are absolutely committed to fighting climate problems, poverty, injustice, war, and so many other problems.

NGOs have a special place among iO's clients: many teams feel that this is how our organisation can give something back to society. And we don't just support non-profits and governments with socially relevant work — we also play our part with support and donations to the organisations we strongly believe in. For example, we have been working with Amnesty International, Red Cross, 113 Suicide Prevention, Lung Foundation, and many others for years. In addition, we also share training, knowledge, and materials with organisations such as Digidak that seek to eliminate the often overlooked problem of the people that are left behind in the digital divide.

More impact through digitisation

  • By using a single platform, NGOs can determine more effective strategies and build a sustainable base of donors

  • New digital services help NGOs build lasting relationships and respond to donor needs and expectations through trusted channels

  • Digitalisation of programme management increases the impact of NGOs through more efficient use of funds and faster roll-out of activities across different programmes

  • Centralised tools and direct access to key data ensure that employees derive more satisfaction and energy from their work and are more effective in serving the interests of the organisation and supported groups

  • The right data and analyses provide new insights that allow NGOs to make better choices and adjust their course of action immediately

  • Automated elements in operational processes reduce time-consuming administrative tasks, freeing up resources for more productive work.

Working with iO?

Our experts will listen and guide you through.

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non-profit industry

Recruitment and retention as the biggest challenge

Many NGOs face fierce competition for donations and grants. In addition to the fact that it is often more challenging for NGOs to optimise their organisation, their processes, and their tools, a lack of funding can also have an impact on an NGO's ability to attract talent. And that's a big problem, partly because their salaries aren't competitive compared to the private sector.

With creative labour market communication, iO helps you to strike the right chord with the labour market, and to grow awareness and interest in your organisation.

Woman working on laptop

How do we work?

It all starts with listening. Many organisations realise that they need to digitise and optimise their services, solutions, or campaigns. At iO, we assist them in every step of that process. Together, we look at what your needs are and how we can help your organisation move forward with an integrated approach. A dedicated team with experience in the non-profit sector will help you to gather the ideal mix of talents to achieve the ideal blend. We always start with the right strategic insights and implement them in phases. In doing so, we combine our technological know-how with in-depth tactical and operational expertise — but above all with a good dose of common sense, enthusiasm, and creativity.

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