A nonprofit does not need a big brand. It needs one clear sentence about what it does, said the same way everywhere.
By starting with the smallest piece that fixes the biggest problem, and paying for it over time. Most nonprofits need less than they are quoted.
What should a nonprofit fix first?
The one sentence that says what you do and for whom, then the homepage and the donate button. A clear website with a working donation path does more than a new logo.
What are the cheapest ways to start?
- A second opinion, $150. An hour on what to fix first, before you ask anyone for a quote.
- A one-page website, $1,500. Who you are, what you do, how to give, how to help.
- A tune-up of your current mark, $1,200. Clean files and a proper color and type system.
Can the cost be spread out?
With me, anything over $3,000 can be paid by the month across the months it takes, with no interest.
Do you do sliding-scale or donated work?
Yes. Nonprofits, co-ops, arts groups, and startups before revenue can ask for the sliding scale, down to nothing, two slots a quarter. I have given a lot of design and technology work to Minneapolis charities and arts groups over the years, and nonprofits still get a rate.
Can a grant pay for branding or a website?
Often, as part of a capacity-building or communications grant. Ask your funders. A clear scope and a fixed price make that request easier to approve.
Answered by Jared Lukes, Minneapolis. Twenty-five years in brand, UX, and technology, currently holding fractional AI and technology seats at three companies. About Jared.