We get it — marketing might feel out of reach when your nonprofit or small business runs on a shoestring budget. But don’t worry, you don’t need a big bank account to make a big impact!
With the right strategies, you can spread the word about your organization, connect with supporters and customers who care and grow and scale without spending a fortune. Here’s where to start your low-to-no-cost marketing efforts:
1. Tell stories that resonate because YOU have a story to tell.
No matter your industry, you have a story to tell. How did your organization start? What drives you? Has a particular client stuck out to you and/or made all that work worth it?
(I know: HUGE shocker to hear us at Magnolia Media Group advocating for storytelling — but it’s because it really does work!)
Whether it’s a customer testimonial or a behind-the-scenes look at your team in action, storytelling builds emotional connections.
Prioritize sharing short, powerful stories — they can even be shot as quick phone videos. And remember: authenticity matters more than production value here!
2. Jump into social (without overwhelming yourself)
Social media is a free and powerful tool, but don’t be fooled: you do NOT need to be on every platform.
Surprised to hear that? Seriously — just pick one or two where your audience is most active, and focus your efforts there.
Post consistently (we recommend 3 to 5 times per week to start), engage with comments and use free design tools like Canva to make your posts pop.
Be real, be engaging and be yourself — show people who your organization really is. And don’t overthink it!
3. Build an email list — yes, it still works!
Email is one of the most effective, and free, ways to stay in touch with supporters and customers. Start collecting emails from your customers, donors and supporters. This can be as simple as adding a checkbox on your intake forms or offering a freebie on your website.
(You’ll thank us later; make sure to have at least first and last names — along with email addresses — for everyone in your list.)
Platforms like Mailchimp offer free plans, and a simple monthly newsletter with updates, success stories and ways to get involved can go a long way toward drawing your audience in.
4. Host an open house event
One of the best ways to raise awareness? Simply inviting people in.
Consider hosting a free “open house” day to give potential and current customers and supporters — not to mention the general public — a firsthand look at your work.
Offer tours of your facilities, share success stories of when you solved a problem for your clients and let attendees meet the people behind the mission.
The day-to-day of your work might feel uneventful to you, but offering a group tour to show the behind-the-scenes of your work can be a powerful way to show the general public what it takes to accomplish your mission.
It also helps to build trust, something you can never have too much of. This personal connection can be the catalyst for turning casual visitors into long-term partners.
5. Turn your fans into ambassadors
Word-of-mouth is still one of the best (and cheapest!) ways to connect with people of all generations.
Encourage your board members, volunteers and supporters and current clients/customers to share your posts, invite friends to events and talk about your mission.
User-generated content — like photos, reviews and video testimonials — can help spread your message organically, even through channels like social media.
The key? Start small, and stay consistent
You might not need a whole team — or even a dedicated marketing staff member — to start your marketing journey. Focus on sharing great stories, being present on social media and using free tools to your advantage.
Even small, consistent efforts will build momentum over time. Your mission deserves to be heard — so start where you are, and grow from there!
Are you a nonprofit ready to take the next step? We’d love to help tell your story well through social media, email and more. Get in touch today!