Mobile subscriptions across the globe are expected to reach 4.6 billion by the end of this year, and mobile broadband subscriptions are estimated to top 600 million in 2009, having overtaken fixed broadband subscribers last year. Last year, the Mobile Giving Foundation enabled nearly 150 nonprofits to raise more than $400,000 across all campaigns using a $5 price point, and forecasts 2009 numbers to be significantly higher. (FundraisingSuccessMag.com)
On January 27th, The Red Cross has raised close to $20 million via its SMS text messaging campaign for Haiti Earthquake relief. (MobileActive.org) Over the next few blog posts we will be breaking down the questions using mobile phones for fundraising and why their applications will directly change the face of giving as we know it.
Our First Conclusion: SmartPhones are directly related to the success of mobile giving.
Another and distinct approach to mobile donations leverages the explosion of smartphones. During the last reported period (July through September 2009), 43.3 million smartphones shipped worldwide, up 4.2 percent from 41.5 million in the same period a year ago, and up 3.2 percent from shipments of 41.9 million in the second quarter of this year, according to IDC’s Worldwide Quarterly Mobile Phone Tracker report. Smartphone shipments soon will out-pace laptop shipments in some markets.
“Smartphones give non-profits the ability to clearly spell-out their mission and voice. Many people are giving up their computers and only carrying a cell phone. As smartphones grow, a large population is turning towards a mobile device only community. It’s the way of the future. The 4.3 inch screen is going to replace laptops for many. Non profits should be developing their own phone applications to mobilize and strategize their brand. Applications build a bridge for non-profits to foster community and interact with an already captive audience. If someone cares enough to download your application, they are already fully engaged.” @JohnAshtonEdgar
Stay tuned to hear more about the Mobile Give!
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