If you’ve ever received a compelling invitation in the mail or were emotionally affected by a thoughtful impact report, you know the role that good print design can have. Although much of our outreach and communications take place online these days, print design still holds an important and irreplaceable spot in the realm of non-profit fundraising.
The tactile sensation, vivid colors and distinctive design make print a powerful tool for connecting with potential donors and serve as a leave-behind reminder of the impact they could have. That increased sense of engagement can lead to increased donations.
The Benefits of Good Print Design for Non-profits
Professionally designed printed materials will use visual hierarchy to elevate your storytelling, that is, logically lay out the elements of the story to enhance perception. Compelling design and images will grab the attention of the donor and stimulate their senses and emotions. By evoking distinct reactions (excitement, sympathy, interest), you will draw the viewer in and create a feeling of connectedness to your organization.
At Trillion, we also use good print design to present your organization’s data in an organized and visually appealing way, making it easier for stakeholders to understand and support you. Clarifying the specific details of your activities and reach will differentiate you from other non-profits who are seeking attention and support.
Reinforcing your brand identity to your constituents is another advantage strong print design offers. Having materials that consistently display your distinctive photography, typography, logo and colors will create strong recognition and trust for your organization. This consistent messaging is also a fruitful way to bridge the gap between digital or social media campaigns. Your print materials can be coordinated with your digital campaigns for engagement tracking. Using a QR code on your printed pieces can make that tracking easy and, even better, let you provide a link to donate.
Quality print materials transmit a high level of professionalism. A well-produced impact report, for example, can be seen as evidence that you are good stewards of your cause. In the case of capital campaigns, brochures and other collateral with compelling print design will directly impact your fundraising efforts.
Ways to Use Print Design Effectively
There are some very effective ways to maximize the effect of your print materials and ensure they take full advantage of the opportunities print provides:
- Consider tactile aspects: paper feel and weight, special finishes such as foil stamping
- Make it identifiable with your logo or other distinctive photos or design
- Choose colors that strongly represent your brand
- Use die cuts to help a piece feel more important or special
Best Ways to Employ Print Design
Print design can reach your donors or new prospects through impact reports, annual appeal mailings, gala invitations, donor appreciation cards, special events, and much more — all of which provide a chance to connect your mission to donors. Your fundraising letters, annual reports, and remittance envelopes should all be personalized and visually appealing.
Print design has a crucial place in event promotion: invitations, event programs, banners, and signage can create a whole look and feel that excites the donor and actually increases attendance at your events. The printed mailer can serve as the starting point for the whole experience: the fun starts when they get the invitation or save the date.
Thank your donors and make them feel appreciated with special cards or promotional items. This is a great way to stay in touch with donors and keep your brand at the top of their minds.
Print Design Has a Unique Outreach
In certain communities or target demographics, printed materials can reach people more effectively than digital content. You can reach people where they work and live instead of email or social media where messages can be quickly buried. For those people who are not online regularly or tech-savvy, printed outreach is especially important. In all cases, print offers the unique chance for your brand to reach out with high-touch, high-impact engagements.
Increase Your Fundraising with Print Design
Print design is a wonderful way to elevate your presence and boost donations, but the design itself must be thoroughly professional and a thoughtful and useful expression of your brand. At Trillion, we have talented, award-winning designers whose creativity can express your message. Our vast experience in print design can help your brand rise off the printed page in a way that is impactful and unique. Give us a call at 908.219.4703 or fill out our contact form to get started.
