Google set to help 30,000 small charities go online

Google has just launched a new campaign to help 30,000 of Britain’s smallest charities boost their fundraising through online tools and the internet. Established in partnership with the Media Trust and Charity Technology Trust, the ‘Grow Your Charity Online’ initiative will provide free training and tools for smaller charities across the country, reports The Guardian. It comprises an online learning hub, specialised training, workshops and live events.

As part of the campaign, Google will host a regular series of online educational events, allowing charities from across the UK to join advice sessions remotely, while Google UK employees will dedicate a percentage of their work time towards the project, by volunteering their expertise at workshops.

Getting online helps small companies grow four to eight times faster than staying offline, and the same could be true of small charities, Google’s vice-president Matt Brittin told The Guardian. He believes there’s a big potential for charities to grow by embracing the value of online marketing. Additionally, consumers are increasingly looking for information online and engaging with charities via social media. Charities with websites are increasing supporter interaction by more than 70%, Brittin says.

The Media Trust’s chief executive, Caroline Diehl, believes that the new campaign provides a great opportunity for charities to learn new skills to manage their online presence, giving a voice to communities and inspiring more people to make a difference, seek help, volunteer or donate. The Charity Technology Trust’s chief executive, Richard Craig, is also very supportive of the project. He believes that due to a lack of resources, charities often miss out on the advantages that web analytics, online communications, promotional offers or even a YouTube page can deliver.

CJAM is a member of CharityComms and provides discounted email marketing and social media services to charities throughout Essex and beyond. We’d be happy to speak to any small charities interested in raising their profile online. Just give us a call on 01787 226995.