Customised Branding: Non-Profit Organisations Visibility & Awareness Techniques
Some people believe that branding is solely linked to businesses and the corporate world. However, did you know that livestock raised for domestic consumption can also be branded for easier identification? This highlights that branding isn't just a corporate concept; it has broader applications. Non-profit organisations (NPO), even those not engaged in the corporate sector, also require branding to effectively fulfil their mission.
The main goal of branding is to connect with the public, organisations or specific target audiences. Since NPOs also engage in communication within their operations, they must use branding as a communication tool. In this blog, we will outline techniques that NPOs use for visibility and awareness purposes:
Vehicle Wrapping
Custom vehicle wrapping has become a popular marketing strategy for corporations. Branded vehicles can quickly spread important information to different communities as they move around. This approach is also commonly used by NPOs to raise awareness in specific areas. Typically, vehicle wraps feature thematic messages that reflect the causes supported by NPOs at various times.
With some NPOs’ budgets often low, they might struggle to buy space to attract funding in the mainstream media. A vehicle displaying an NPO's information can capture the interest of potential donors or funders who share a passion for the organisation's cause.
Custom-Branded Apparel
Just as companies leverage roadshows to distribute branded giveaways, NPOs employ a similar strategy through outreach programs. These initiatives allow NPOs to provide giveaways that promote their causes. This approach has a psychological impact on communities, creating lasting exposure to the intended messages even after the NPO has left.
Giveaways often include custom-printed items like caps, t-shirts, and women's waist and head wraps taken through dye-sublimation, serving as constant reminders of the lessons imparted or behaviours encouraged, especially by health-focused organisations.
Bespoke Event Banners
Events provide valuable opportunities for various organisations and industries to showcase their services, products, and initiatives. NPOs are often invited to events that resonate with their initiatives because they align with specific causes being promoted. For instance, the United Nations, through UNESCO, might invite NPOs to an education-focused event, which could also attract donors interested in supporting education-related charities.
During such events, it can be challenging for donors to engage with all the NPOs present. This is where banners become important, as they convey your organisation's messages and can facilitate connections that lead to funding opportunities with potential donors. Attractive graphics on your banners can attract reporters to your booth, giving you the chance to showcase your NPO and communicate its initiatives and needs to potential stakeholders at no cost.
Billboards
I’ve observed NPOs promoting initiatives through various communication channels, including radio, TV, newspapers, and social media partnerships with influencers. Another method they’ve embraced is billboard advertising, often featuring clever or serious messages designed to provoke discussion. These messages can range from encouraging male circumcision to promoting regular breast cancer screenings.
By placing billboards along busy highways, they increase the likelihood of reaching a large audience and raising awareness simultaneously. As a result, they establish themselves as a credible potential partner in the view of health departments within both government and private organisations.
Custom Branded Freebies
The psychology of freebies is rooted in our natural desire to feel valued when we receive something at no cost. This gesture often provokes the need to reciprocate, leading recipients to feel motivated to give back, whether through loyalty, or positive recommendations. When attending events, it's beneficial to have small, custom-branded items to distribute to other attendees as a means of building relationships with key stakeholders.
These items could include custom branded notepads, diaries, pens, and other small gifts. Diaries and notepads, in particular, tend to find a permanent spot on office desks, serving as a constant reminder of your presence, especially if a partnership with an NPO aligns with their initiatives.
In conclusion, NPOs can significantly enhance their visibility and awareness by using custom branding across various platforms. By adding custom branded freebies, billboards, apparel, banners, and vehicle wraps, NPOs can create a memorable identity that resonates with their audience. These strategies not only promote their mission but also engage the community, driving support and creating a deeper connection with potential donors and volunteers. Ultimately, effective branding transforms everyday materials into powerful tools for advocacy and outreach.
For customised branding solutions, whether you need banners, apparel, vehicle wraps, diaries, or any other custom items, Image at Work is your go-to source. For outreach programs and events, custom-printed t-shirts, caps, and promotional products are essential. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us — we’re always prepared to provide premium services that ensure our clients are satisfied.