14 Unique Donor Stewardship Ideas

Finding creative ways to stand out and engage donors can be a constant struggle for fundraising teams. While everyone is trying hard to ‘think outside the box,’ perhaps instead it is time to start thinking inside the envelope.

Imagine an affordable envelope brimming with creativity, thoughtfulness, and a touchpoint that strengthens relationships. What if you could wow your donors and alumni with unique gifts that foster connections and don’t break the bank? The following options are designed to fit beautifully within a creative envelope of your choice.

Here are 14 original gift ideas to elevate and inspire your donor stewardship efforts:
  1. Membership cards— Donors, especially monthly donors and giving society members, take pride in their association with your organization. A membership card lets them showcase their affiliation with your cause. Tip: Try cardboard instead of plastic to save money.
    • Membership key tags—Another supplemental or replacement option is a key tag that members can add to their key chains.
  2. Bookmarks—Remind customers of your mission whenever they sit down to enjoy a good read.
  3. Magnets— Your brand is magnetic, so why shouldn’t your stewardship program be? Magnets are a great tool to stay top-of-mind, build a relationship with donors, and say thank you.
  4. Ornaments—Ornaments don’t have to be expensive. Consider using thick cardstock and die-cutting to send professional ornaments in various shapes—think a snowman, reindeer, or snow globe. Elevate your gift with creative illustrations or designs and include your logo and a heartfelt message on the back.

  1. Socks—Cozy on up with this small token of appreciation. At a reasonable cost, you can customize socks to reflect your brand and mission.
  2. Artwork—This new trend puts a unique spin on stewardship. Send a print in a common photo size so donors can frame it. A 4×6-inch work of art can provide value to your audience and breed connections. Similarly, you can send an artful card that can be framed.
  3. Notepads—Combine usefulness with gratitude. Notepads are a useful tool that will keep your brand in front of donors at home and in the office.

Let’s pause for a few important direct mail tips you should know.

Direct Mail Tips:

  • a large envelope cannot exceed 15” in length x 3.4” in width x 12” in height.
  • It also cannot be rigid (think cardboard) and must be uniformly thick.
  • Beyond those guidelines, your package will need to be sent through the more costly parcel post.

BCG Connect can help you find the most cost-effective mailing solutions that fit your budget.

  1. Stickers for water bottles—Water bottles are walking billboards. Get customers to put your brand front and center with high-quality, durable stickers they will be proud to show off on their favorite cup or water bottle.
  2. Curated playlists—Is your budget especially tight? Create a special playlist for your donors to enjoy. Connect it to a theme such as the decade an alumnus graduated or use a poll on social media to get input.
  3. 3-D gifts— Utilize die-cutting to create small decorations. From your mascot to a pine tree for the holidays, print and die-cut two pieces that fit together like a puzzle. This mini-DIY project is something your donors can cherish for years.
  4. Calendars—This has the potential to get visibility 365 days a year. Depending on your budget and goals, explore options such as wall hangings, desk calendars, or planners.
  5. Reusable bags—Especially if your organization promotes environmental conservancy, reusable bags are a practical and effective gift to increase donations and retain donors.
  6. Seed packets—This simple yet fun gift is original and keeps our earth in mind. Try a play on words such as “plant the seed of knowledge” if you’re an educational organization.
  7. Cards—A classic, yet personal and valuable method. A heartfelt message goes a long way.

Take your budget and donor base into account as you consider these options. Even with limited resources, you can differentiate your brand and mission. Don’t forget to promote virality and reach by asking your audience to post their gifts on social and tag you.

Together, let’s bring your ideas to life.
Contact us at www.bcgconnect.com/contact to start the conversation.
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