How To Use QR Codes To Raise More Money For Charity

When you are fundraising for a charity run, one of the biggest challenges isn't persuading people to donate, it's making it as easy as possible for them to do it. Most people are more than happy to support a good cause, but if they have to search for your fundraising page or remember a web address, there's always a chance they'll put it off until later. Unfortunately, later often becomes never.

A QR code removes that problem. Instead of asking someone to search for your fundraising page, they simply scan the code with their phone and are taken straight to it. It only takes a few seconds, making it much easier for people to donate while your challenge is still fresh in their minds.

Why A QR Code Can Help You Raise More Money

Think about how often you've had someone say, "I'll donate when I get home," or "Send me the link later." They usually mean it, but life has a habit of getting in the way. By the time they remember, they may have forgotten your fundraising page altogether.

A QR code allows people to donate there and then. Whether you're chatting to colleagues at work, meeting friends at your running club or speaking to neighbours, they can scan the code immediately and make a donation in less than a minute. It's one of the simplest ways to turn good intentions into actual donations.

Creating A QR Code Couldn't Be Easier

The good news is that you probably won't need to create a QR code yourself. Most of the major fundraising platforms, including JustGiving and Enthuse, automatically generate one for your fundraising page. In most cases, you simply log into your account, find the QR code option and download it ready to print or share.

If your chosen fundraising platform doesn't provide one, there are plenty of free QR code generators available online. All you need to do is copy and paste the web address of your fundraising page and the website will create a QR code for you in a matter of seconds.

Whichever method you use, it's always worth scanning the code yourself before sharing it to make sure it takes people to the correct fundraising page.

Don't Limit Yourself To Social Media

Most runners think about sharing their fundraising page on Facebook or Instagram, but a QR code opens up plenty of other opportunities. Anywhere you can display a poster, leaflet or sign becomes another chance for someone to support your fundraising.

Your workplace is an obvious place to start, particularly if your employer is happy for you to promote your challenge. Running clubs, local community centres, village halls and sports clubs can also be excellent places to display a QR code, especially if they have noticeboards that members regularly use.

Get your QR code on as many noticeboards as you can!

Include It At Your Fundraising Events

If you're organising a cake sale, coffee morning, quiz night or raffle, make sure your QR code is clearly displayed. Many people no longer carry cash, but almost everyone has a smartphone in their pocket. Rather than losing a potential donation because someone can't pay on the day, they can simply scan the code and donate online instead.

The same applies on race day. If friends and family are coming along to support you, ask them to print your QR code and display it on a homemade banner or placard. It's a simple way to encourage other spectators to support your chosen charity if they like your story.

Tell People Why You're Raising Money

A QR code works best when it's supported by your story. People are far more likely to donate if they understand why you've chosen to support a particular charity and what completing your event means to you.

You don't need to write pages of text. A few sentences explaining your challenge and the difference the charity makes can be enough to encourage someone to take out their phone and scan the code. Remember, people often donate because they connect with the person behind the fundraising as much as the cause itself.

Check It Before You Share It

Before printing posters or handing out leaflets, test your QR code on a couple of different phones to make sure everything works as expected. It's also worth checking that it links directly to your fundraising page rather than your fundraising platform's homepage, as every extra click gives people another opportunity to lose interest.

If you're taking part in another charity event in the future, remember to download the QR code for your new fundraising page. Each event will normally have its own unique page, so using an old QR code could send supporters to the wrong place.

Final Thoughts On QR Codes For Charity Fundraising

Successful fundraising isn't always about finding more supporters. Quite often it's about making it easier for the people who already want to help. A QR code removes one of the biggest barriers by allowing people to donate instantly, wherever they happen to meet you.

It takes very little effort to download or create a QR code, but it can make a real difference to your fundraising campaign. By making the donation process as quick and straightforward as possible, you'll give your chosen charity the best chance of receiving every pound your supporters want to give.