We use the term influencer a lot, and people’s first thoughts often go straight to a person online who became a billionaire with a large following that reviews products or experiences, but what if I told you that influencers can be so much more than that stereotype?

Influencers in the nonprofit space can be nano, micro, or macro (small to large followings) and can go by many names. You may call them champions, volunteers, donors, or even some of your own teammates, who can all be influential for your cause. 
 

Why Even Use Influencers for Your Nonprofit?

Bring a new perspective to your nonprofit by partnering with influencers who create unique content and have stories to share that really connect with your target audience. 
 

Influencer partnerships amplify your voice. They champion your cause and spread awareness, messaging, and action even further to reach new audiences that your organization might not have reached on its own. 

How Do I Know They're The Right Person to Partner With?

Build partnerships with people whose audience reflects who you are trying to reach, and whose content aligns with your values. You want to work with people who are engaged with their audience and community to have valuable conversations and spark meaningful actions. Remember, these are ongoing and hopefully lasting partnerships!

Okay, So If I Want Influencer Help, How Do I Reach Them?

Reach out! Send emails, DM inboxes, shoot your shot. Build connections and establish relationships. Identify people who align with your cause, have participated previously, or are vocal on social media. 

Be honest and up front with your budget, the purpose of the partnership, and why you think working together will help your mission. You never know, some influencers will happily work something out with you, and maybe even help for free if it is a cause they are passionate about.

You can also use various tools to find influencers online, varying in cost across platforms, or you can do the research yourself using Google, local hashtags, and checking out online communities.

Make sure to use an influencer contract, an agreement that outlines: deliverables, timelines, payment, compliance for advertising regulations, disclosure requirements, copyright, usage rights, liability, indemnification, and grounds for termination.

Turn Your Supporters into Influencers with Modern Tech

Do you have a growing following dedicated to your cause? Easily turn them into your biggest cheerleaders by developing fun social media challenges, hashtags, dances, or trends that they can participate in to champion your cause.

You can also leverage partnerships with streaming technologies (Twitch, YouTube, etc.) or social media platforms like Meta to get your followers engaged in fundraisers and streaming events where they can crowdsource donations for your nonprofit.

Need help getting started? Speak to one of our marketing strategists today!