There have been a LOT of nonprofit contests going on lately. Seems like everyday I get asked online to “vote” for some organization in one contest or another.
But are these contests worth it?
My colleague Sherry Truhlar at Red Apple Auctions recently addressed this trend on her blog. Sherry points out that small nonprofit organizations can easily waste a LOT of time promoting their participation in one of these contests. And with limited resources (like time), they may be better off promoting something that’s a sure thing, like a fundraising campaign or an auction event.
I totally agree with Sherry. It’s easy to get lured by the prospect of winning $10,000 just by having the most votes. But these votes aren’t always easy to get, plus you’re competing with thousands of other nonprofits. I’ve even heard a few nonprofits complaining that some contests aren’t set up very fairly.
I encourage you to think very carefully before you decide to participate in one of these. Make sure it’s worth your time before you jump in. And remember that these contests are sponsored by businesses that are getting a lot of promotional value from it.
Read Sherry’s entire post at http://www.redappleauctions.com/marketing/benefit-auctions-versus-online-non-profit-contests-wheres-the-big-payoff/
Recent Comments