🇺🇸 The Future of Fundraising Is Contactless: 13 Questions U.S. Nonprofits Should Be Asking Now

In today’s rapidly shifting fundraising landscape, one thing is clear: the way Americans give is changing—and nonprofits need to keep up.

Between declining cash use, rising expectations for convenience, and the ripple effects of federal budget shifts—including cuts to USAID and other public funding sources—organizations across the country are looking for smarter, more accessible ways to connect with donors.

That’s where contactless fundraising comes in - a practical, effective way to meet supporters where they are, whether that’s at an event, in a church pew, or walking down Main Street.

Here are 13 key questions your team should be asking about contactless giving—and how it can help you diversify revenue, boost engagement, and stay mission-strong in uncertain times.

1. What is contactless fundraising?

Contactless fundraising refers to any way of giving that doesn’t involve cash or physically handing over a credit card. That includes:

• Tapping a phone or card on a payment reader (NFC-enabled)

• Scanning a QR code with a smartphone

• Donating through mobile wallets like Apple Pay or Google Pay

• Text-to-give platforms

• Smart tap signs or NFC stickers

It’s fast, secure, and frictionless—exactly how most Americans expect to pay in 2025.

2. Why is this important now?

Because donors are changing—and so is the funding environment. With federal funding like USAID grants facing cuts or delays, nonprofits need to tap into new giving streams. At the same time:

• People are carrying less cash

• Mobile payments are now mainstream

• Donors expect a smooth, digital experience—especially younger supporters

Contactless giving helps you future-proof your fundraising.

3. Does contactless giving actually increase donations?

In many cases, yes. When giving is easier, more people give. Especially at events or in public settings, contactless tools reduce the friction that might stop someone from donating. You’ll capture more spontaneous, in-the-moment gifts and reach people who weren’t planning to give—but do when it’s right in front of them.

4. Who’s most likely to give this way?

Millennials and Gen Z are the biggest users of contactless payment methods, but don’t count out older donors—contactless adoption is growing across age groups, especially since the pandemic. Basically, if someone uses a smartphone or taps their card at the grocery store, they’re ready for this.

5. Can we build lasting donor relationships through contactless?

Yes—with the right follow-up. These tools are great for acquisition and one-time giving, but the next step is what counts. Make sure your platform:

• Captures donor info (with permission)

• Sends thank-you messages or receipts

• Offers ways to stay connected or give monthly

6. What kind of tech or gear do we need?

Here are a few options:

• Card readers with contactless tap capability (like Square, Stripe, or Clover)

• QR codes printed on signage or brochures

• Text-to-give platforms

• NFC tags you can stick on donation boxes, signage, or tables

• Mobile-friendly donation pages

Start with what fits your budget and audience—you don’t need to do everything at once.

7. Can we track contactless gifts in our donor database?

Absolutely. Look for platforms that:

• Integrate with your CRM (Salesforce, Bloomerang, DonorPerfect, etc.)

• Allow tagging by source (event, QR code, etc.)

• Offer exports or API access

Tracking is key, especially if you want to report back to funders or show ROI to your board.

8. What are the transaction fees?

Expect to pay around 2.2%–3.5% per donation, similar to online giving platforms. Many systems now give donors the option to cover the fees themselves, which means your org keeps more. Also, check for platform or monthly subscription fees—these vary.

9. Will it work if we don’t have Wi-Fi?

Most systems need some kind of internet connection, whether that’s Wi-Fi or mobile data. Some card readers store data offline and sync later, but for QR or text-to-give, your donors need internet access on their phones. Plan ahead, especially at outdoor events or rural locations.

10. Where is contactless fundraising most effective?

Pretty much anywhere people are on the move or emotionally engaged. Great settings include:

• Events, 5Ks, and galas

• Churches or places of worship

• Museums and visitor centers

• Street fairs, farmer’s markets, and festivals

• Restaurants or businesses hosting give-back nights

Wherever people are gathering, contactless can make giving feel natural.

11. How do we make the experience meaningful, not just transactional?

Good contactless fundraising is more than just tech—it’s storytelling. Use signage or video displays to show:

• Where the money goes

• Who it helps

• What kind of impact they’re making

For example:“Scan here to feed a local family tonight.”“Tapping here provides school supplies for a student.”

These small messages create emotional connection in the moment.

12. What kind of return can we expect?

Even small investments can pay off. A $300 card reader or $25 NFC sign can unlock hundreds or thousands in new donations—especially at high-traffic events. And since it’s mostly one-time setup, the ROI continues over time.

In a climate where grants and government funding may shrink, building community-based revenue like this is more important than ever.

13. Does it fit into our broader fundraising strategy?

Definitely. Contactless fundraising isn’t here to replace your existing efforts—it’s here to enhance them. It works great alongside:

• Major gift cultivation

• Online and direct mail appeals

• Peer-to-peer campaigns

• Events and outreach

• Corporate partnerships

Think of it as another access point for donors—quick, easy, and always ready.

Final Thought: In a Changing Landscape, Accessibility Wins

With federal funding under pressure and donor expectations rising, nonprofits need to adapt. Contactless fundraising gives you a low-barrier, high-impact way to keep giving simple, smart, and always available.

The future of giving in America is flexible, digital, and donor-centered—and contactless tools help you lead the way.

Need help figuring out where to start with contactless fundraising?Let’s talk about tools, setup, and strategies that match your mission and budget.