Ways to Save Overhead Costs of Nonprofits

1. Get Free Stuff

There are all sorts of free stuff available to non-profits. You just have to know where to look. Need computers, desks, chairs? Here are just a few places to look: Good 360, NAEIR, ReBoot, DeliverGood, Throwplace.com, National Cristina Foundation (NCF).

If you can’t find what you need here, ask! In fact, you should always have a list on your website of things you need. Soliciting in-kind donations is common for non-profits, and you never know just what you’ll get. For example, a business owner may donate paper and office supplies to an organization she supports and an accountant may provide free accounting services.

2. Never Pay Full Price
Well, if you can’t get it free, at least you can get a discount! Many organizations offer special discount rates for non-profits. TechSoup, for instance, gives software to non-profit organizations at significantly reduced rates. You should always be checking to see if there are special rates. In some cases, they just aren’t published anywhere.

In many countries non-profits qualify for special discounted mail rates for bulk mailings. Setting up discounted mail service is often as simple as filling out a form and paying a small registration fee. Non-profits that send out lots of fundraising mail or other types of direct mail can save significant sums through discounted postage costs.

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