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Crypto Donations: What Nonprofits Need to Know
Demystifying Crypto Donations: A growing trend transforming the world of charitable giving,
January 23, 2025
Welcome back to Nonprofit Digest! 🎉
This week, we’re diving into a growing trend transforming the world of charitable giving: cryptocurrency donations. As more donors turn to digital assets for philanthropy, it’s crucial for nonprofits to understand what crypto is, how it works, and the evolving regulations around it.
Let’s break it down—plus, we’ve included key grant opportunities and essential IRS updates for your nonprofit this season!
What Is Cryptocurrency? 🤔
Cryptocurrency, or crypto, is a type of digital currency that uses blockchain technology to verify transactions securely and transparently. Unlike traditional currencies, crypto isn’t controlled by a central authority like a government or bank.
Popular Cryptocurrencies Used for Donations:
- Bitcoin (BTC) – The most well-known and widely used digital currency.
- Ethereum (ETH) – Commonly used for smart contracts and donations.
- USDC (USD Coin) – A stablecoin tied to the U.S. dollar for minimal price fluctuation.
💡 Fun Fact: Crypto transactions are often faster and more secure than traditional banking methods, making them appealing for modern donors.
What Are Crypto Donations? 💸
A crypto donation involves a donor giving digital currency instead of traditional cash to a nonprofit organization. These gifts can be converted into regular currency or held as assets by the nonprofit, depending on their policies.
Why Nonprofits Are Exploring Crypto Donations:
💻 A Growing Donor Base: Over 420 million people worldwide use cryptocurrency, with many seeking innovative ways to give back.
📈 Rising Popularity: More nonprofits are beginning to accept crypto, recognizing its potential to diversify income streams and reach new donors.
🌍 Global Reach: Crypto transcends borders, allowing nonprofits to connect with international supporters more easily than ever before.
How It Works for Nonprofits:
1. Donor Transfers Crypto: A supporter sends cryptocurrency to your nonprofit’s digital wallet.
2. Automatic Conversion: Using platforms like The Giving Block or Engiven, crypto can be automatically converted into cash.
3. Acknowledgment: Issue a tax receipt reflecting the donation’s fair market value at the time of the gift
How to Start Accepting Crypto Donations 🚀
Ready to take advantage of crypto donations? Here’s how to get started:
- Choose a Trusted Platform: Services like The Giving Block and Engiven offer secure crypto donation processing.
- Update Your Donation Page: Clearly explain how crypto gifts support your mission and add a “Donate Crypto” button.
- Educate Your Supporters: Share content explaining the tax benefits of crypto giving.
- Acknowledge Gifts Transparently: Provide a detailed tax receipt and clearly explain how the donation will be used.
💡 Pro Tip: Host a "Crypto Giving Webinar" for your donors to educate them on this emerging way to give!
Featured Grants 🗂️
🎀 1. Literacy Opportunity Fund
Focus: Supports adult literacy programs across the United States, providing funding for general operating expenses and specific literacy initiatives.
Amount: Varies
Deadline: Rolling
Pro Tip: Highlight measurable literacy outcomes and community impact to strengthen your application.
👉 Apply Here
🎀 2. Fisher House Foundation Grant
Focus: Provides grants for nonprofits supporting military families, housing, and wellness services.
Amount: Up to $250,000
Deadline: March 6, 2025
Pro Tip: Highlight long-term support services for veterans and their families.
👉 Apply Here
🎀 3. KFC Foundation’s “Kentucky Fried Wishes” Grant
Focus: Provides grants to nonprofits addressing community needs like education, crisis support, and personal growth.
Amount: Up to $10,000
Deadline: Rolling
Pro Tip: Focus on how your program directly impacts local communities and aligns with KFC’s commitment to helping people thrive.
👉 Apply Here
🎀 4. Dan Paul Foundation Grant
Focus: Funds programs that enhance education, youth development, and environmental initiatives.
Amount: Varies
Deadline: Rolling
Pro Tip: Showcase innovative and impactful programs that benefit youth and align with the foundation's mission.
👉 Apply Here
🎀 5. Entergy Micro Grants
Focus: Supports nonprofits in Entergy’s service areas working on community improvement, education, and disaster recovery.
Amount: Up to $1,000
Deadline: Rolling
Pro Tip: Highlight specific, localized projects with immediate impact to improve your chances of approval.
👉 Apply Here
From Our Team to Yours: Here’s to a Powerful 2025 🎉
Your dedication and passion inspire us every day, and we’re proud to support your mission.
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