Understand the Goals of the Non-Profit

Before designing for a non-profit organization, it is important to understand the goals and mission of the organization. Research the organization and familiarize yourself with the causes they support and the vision they have. Once you understand their purpose, you can begin to create an effective design that reflects their values.

Design a Logo

A unique logo is essential for any business, but especially for non-profits. It should be memorable and reflect the mission of the organization. Consider the colors and font you choose to ensure that they are in line with the brand image and values of the non-profit.

Create a Website

Once you have a logo, create a website to showcase the organization's mission and values. The website should be professional and easy to navigate, with all the necessary information about the non-profit and its projects. Use high-quality visuals to draw attention and engage viewers, and include donation links and sign-up forms.

Develop Social Media Presence

Social media is an essential tool for any organization. Create social media accounts for the organization and post regularly about the causes they are supporting, upcoming events, and other relevant content. Ask followers to join

How to Design for Nonprofits

Designing for a non-profit organisation can be a powerful way to use creativity to help support a cause that is meaningful to you. Whether it's graphic design, web design, or other types of visual communication, there are several key aspects to consider when designing for the non-profit sector.

Know the Mission of the Organization

Before starting any sort of design project, it is important to have a clear understanding of the mission and purpose of the non-profit organisation. Without this foundation, it may be difficult to create a cohesive design that authentically captures the goals of the organization. When possible, conduct research on the non-profit's background, values, and mandate. Understanding the core values of the organization can act as an important guide when deciding which design elements to include in the project. Additionally, talking to people who are affiliated with the non-profit can provide useful insights on the overall mission and objectives.

Consider What Type of Content is Needed

When creating visual content, nonprofits have different needs than brands with a primary focus on selling products. Therefore, it is important to consider what type of content is best for conveying the message of the non-profit. For example, an organization may want to create a website with an emphasis on storytelling, featuring images and videos of people affected by the cause. Other organizations may decide that creating a simple, informative brochure is the best way to communicate their mission. Each approach may require different design elements, such as typography, iconography, and visuals, so it is important to plan accordingly.

Choose Design Elements that Represent the Organization's Vision

When developing the visual language of a non-profit, it is essential to choose design elements that represent the organization's vision. This includes logos, colors, typography, and other design elements. When selecting design elements, it is important to "get the basics right" by choosing a logo, color palette, and typography that accurately reflect the organization's mission. For instance, if the organization focuses on environmental protection, it may be beneficial to use blues and greens in the color palette. Additionally, certain typefaces can evoke different emotions, so it is important to select one that resonates with the intended audience.

Use Testimonials and Data to Make a Difference

Testimonials and data can be powerful tools when it comes to designing for non-profits. Combining real-world stories with data can help convey the impact of the organization's work in an authentic and meaningful way. Incorporating testimonials into design projects can be especially effective in helping to connect with a larger audience, since they allow viewers to see the mission through the eyes of someone whose life has been directly impacted. Similarly, using data helps reinforce the impact of the non-profit by providing hard evidence to back up stories. This can be particularly helpful when presenting the company to potential donors or funders.

Make Design Accessible for All Audiences

Non-profits often depend on donations and support from a wide range of donors. Therefore, it is important to make sure that design projects are accessible for all audiences. This includes ensuring that the content is translated into multiple languages, as well as making sure it is readable and understandable for those with disabilities. Additionally, some non-profit organisations may need to ensure that their designs are accessible to people with low-bandwidth internet connections. Designing for these audiences requires knowledge of special techniques, such as using accessible colours, making content more quickly scannable, and optimizing images for faster loading times.

Use Technology to Connect with Donors

Non-profit organisations rely on the generosity of donors, so it is important to keep them engaged in the organisation's work. One way to do this is by utilizing technology to connect with them. Examples of this could include

1. Design a simple homepage that includes the organization's logo, mission statement, and contact information. Use HTML headings, paragraphs, and lists to format the content.

2. Create a donation page with a donation form. Include prompts for donor name, address, phone number, and preferred payment method. Use HTML input fields, radio buttons, and a submit button to accept donations.

3. Design dedicated pages for each of the organization's campaigns.

To go further on the topic

If you'd like to explore more on the topic of How to design for non-profits, we recommend the following literature:

1 "Design Thinking for Social Innovation: From Idea to Impact" by Joan L. Leach
2. "Design as an Approach to Social Innovation" by Doris Sommer
3. "Design for Social Impact: Creating Solutions for a Better World" by Manon Mollard
4. "Strategic Design for Nonprofits: A Guide to Building and Sustaining Success" by David J. Neff
5. "Designing for Social Change: Strategies for Community-Based Graphic Design" by Brenda Dermody & Elizabeth Resnick
6. "The Nonprofit Design Guide: Design Principles and Practices for Nonprofit Organizations" by Christopher Simmons
7. "Social Innovation Design: How to Develop, Prototype, and Refine Ideas for Social Change" by Andrea Siodmok & Dennis Hambeukers
8. "Design for Good: A New Era of Architecture for Everyone" by Aaron Silverman
9. "Design Thinking for Social Impact: Innovating to Solve the World's Hardest Problems" by David M. Compton
10 "Design for the Real World: Human Ecology and Social Change" by Victor Papanek