Giving Tuesday is like the Superbowl of fundraising — even if you’re not an engaged donor, you know it’s happening. (Snacks optional, but encouraged.)

Always the first Tuesday after Thanksgiving, Giving Tuesday 2024 is on December 3. While this may feel like we have more time to prepare, it also lends more crunch time afterward and some special considerations.

So, what does this mean for year-end fundraising in 2024? 

In the world of digital fundraising, things move especially fast. And a December Giving Tuesday means it’s going to be even faster. Although we have a few more days to prepare this year (which can make a big difference), once it’s here, it’s time to run! 

Previous year email schedules may need to be altered to adjust for less time between Giving Tuesday and December 31. You may also need to do more preparations with the additional time since the final few weeks will packed with even more action.

Here’s what we’re doing with our clients to prepare for Giving Tuesday 2024:

• Start planning early. Our Giving Tuesday Checklist is still a great resource to keep on hand when planning for Giving Tuesday. It’s never too early to start setting goals, solidifying a matching gift opportunity, and brainstorming creative ways to engage your community. We compiled our favorite year-end fundraising emails that may come in handy, too. 

• Troubleshoot tech. Ensure your donation workflow is as smooth and seamless as possible —on mobile and desktop. Even a minor hiccup in the donation process could lead to disaster with little time to make big fixes. You also want to be sure your constituent data is as clean and ready as possible. 

• Set up analytics. With so much energy and effort going into this campaign, it would be a huge loss not to collect and analyze data. Even basic analytics will be crucial for the final year-end push and next year’s Giving Tuesday campaign. 

Giving Tuesday is a fun-filled and inspiring day with so much impact to be made. We’re excited to work with our amazing clients and prepare for the year’s final sprint. If you want to grow your program — Giving Tuesday and beyond — let’s get in touch! 

By Monica Schmidt