How to start an online fundraiser in 5 steps: the complete guide for nonprofits
Want to raise funds online for your charity but do not know where to start? These 5 steps will help you launch a successful digital fundraiser — including tips from WeGlow 103 active organizations.
Online fundraising is the fastest-growing way for nonprofits to collect donations. On WeGlow, 103 organizations collectively raised over €2.5 million. Here are their 5 key lessons.
✅ Step 1: Define your story and goal
| ❌ Does not work | ✅ Works |
|---|---|
| "Support our charity" | "Help us buy 50 wheelchairs for children in Brussels" |
| "We help people in need" | "€150 pays one child’s school costs for a year" |
| "Donate for our mission" | "We need €3,000 more for our ambulance — before December 31" |
🖥️ Step 2: Choose the right platform
WeGlow is built specifically for recognized charities — mobile-first, easy sharing, all major payment methods.
🌊 Step 3: Activate your network in waves
| Wave | Timing | Target | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🌱 Wave 1 | Days 1-3 | Inner circle | Personal message to your 20 most engaged supporters |
| 🌿 Wave 2 | Days 4-7 | Network | Social media, newsletter, local press |
| 🌳 Wave 3 | Week 2 | Broad public | Ambassadors, partners, influencers |
| 🚀 Wave 4 | Last 48h | Everyone | Urgency message — campaigns raise 30% in the final sprint |
📣 Step 4: Post regular updates
- 📸 Photos or videos of the impact
- 💬 Thank-you messages from beneficiaries
- 🎉 Milestone celebrations
- 🎬 Behind-the-scenes content
🔄 Step 5: Convert to recurring donors
WeGlow has 296 active recurring donors. Invite one-time donors to WeGlow Donate after your campaign ends.
🚀 Ready to start?
WeGlow offers everything in one platform: campaign pages, peer-to-peer fundraising, events and monthly donations.
Register your organization on WeGlow →Frequently asked questions
How much does fundraising via WeGlow cost?
WeGlow works on a commission model with no fixed monthly costs. You only pay a small fee on received donations.
How quickly does a campaign go live?
After registration, your campaign can be set up within 15 minutes. Approval typically happens within 1 business day.
What is peer-to-peer fundraising?
Supporters create their own personal fundraiser page for your cause, reaching their network and multiplying your reach without extra effort on your part.
Does WeGlow work for events like charity runs?
Absolutely. WeGlow has a full events module where participants set up their own fundraiser page and donors can track their progress in real time.