How to Become a Top-Rated Nonprofit and Double Your Donations
What if there was a simple way to increase your donations just by having a few more people vouch for your nonprofit?
Well, there is.
Here’s the reality—Top-Rated nonprofits on GreatNonprofits are three times more likely to receive donations, and when they do, they receive almost double the amount. That’s a pretty massive opportunity for your organization to bring in more funding to support your mission.
But what does it mean to become Top-Rated? And how can you take advantage of this opportunity? Let’s dive in.
Why Being Top-Rated Changes Everything
Imagine you’re a donor scrolling through dozens of nonprofits, looking for one to support. Where do your eyes land?
On those organizations that look trustworthy. And nothing says trust like a GreatNonprofits Top-Rated badge.
The Top-Rated badge isn’t just for show—it’s a vote of confidence from people who believe in your work. When potential donors see that other people have left glowing reviews, it builds an immediate sense of trust.
And trust leads to action. More trust = more donations.
Step 1: Collecting Reviews – It’s Easier Than You Think
You may be wondering, “How do I even start getting reviews for my nonprofit?”
Start with the people who know you best: your volunteers, donors, and beneficiaries. They’ve seen the impact of your work firsthand, and most of them will be more than happy to leave a review—you just have to ask.
Here’s a simple tip: Send an email to your supporters asking them to share their stories on GreatNonprofits. Don’t make it complicated—just ask them to write about what they’ve experienced. This gives you the content you need to start building up those positive reviews. Here’s the good news—you don’t have to start from scratch! We’ve got some easy-to-use templates that will help you get started without staring at a blank page.
The more reviews you get, the closer you are to earning that Top-Rated badge.
Bonus tip:
When you’re asking people to write a review, don’t be afraid to give them a little nudge in the right direction. Providing a few prompts or questions can really get their creative juices flowing, and you’ll end up with more thoughtful, meaningful reviews.
Here’s the thing—most people want to share their experience, but sometimes they don’t know where to start. By giving them a couple of simple ideas, you make it easy for them to reflect on what matters most.
For example, you can ask:
- What difference has this nonprofit made in your life or community?
- How did you discover this nonprofit?
- What would you tell someone who’s thinking about supporting this organization?
Prompts like these help unlock those powerful stories, and that makes for reviews that really resonate with others. The result? Reviews that are richer, more personal, and a lot more impactful.
So, don’t hesitate to guide your supporters a little—it’ll make a world of difference!
Step 2: Show Off Your Badge Everywhere
Once you’ve earned that badge, don’t be shy about it—flaunt it!
Add it to your website, share it on your social media profiles, and use it in your email signature. Every time you share that badge, you’re telling the world: “We’re a trusted, impactful organization.”
When potential donors see that badge, it reassures them that their money will make a real difference. And that kind of trust leads to more donations—and bigger ones at that.
Top-Rated nonprofits on GreatNonprofits are three times more likely to receive donations, and when they do, they receive almost double the amount.
Step 3: Use Reviews in Your Fundraising Appeals
Reviews aren’t just for display—they’re powerful storytelling tools.
When you send out your next fundraising letter or email, include a review or two. Let your past supporters speak on your behalf. Real testimonials from real people are far more persuasive than any generic marketing message.
Here’s how to do it:
- Pick 1-2 of your best reviews and include them in your appeal.
- Make it easy for potential donors to see the impact they can have.
This way, you’re not just asking for donations—you’re showing how much others believe in your work.
Get Started Today
So, what’s stopping you from taking your nonprofit to the next level? Earning the Top-Rated badge on GreatNonprofits could be the game-changer your organization needs to attract more donations and grow your impact.
Start by asking your supporters to share their stories and watch your nonprofit’s credibility—and donations—skyrocket.
Ready to become a Top-Rated nonprofit? Start gathering reviews today and take your nonprofit to new heights.
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