Those numbers are growing all the time, particularly among adults between the ages of 18 and 49. In fact, 85 percent of people in this age group own smartphones, which is a strong indicator that technology is taking over the market and shifting consumer behavior.

Mobile usage and a reliance on technology are affecting every market, and the nonprofit sector is no different. Unfortunately, these organizations often miss out on some of the technology perks available to them. Nonprofits do a lot of good in the world but are often underfunded and understaffed.

The latest tech can have a huge impact on the way nonprofit organizations fare. Integrating tech into everyday operations should be a goal for every nonprofit, but it’s hard to know where to start. Here are some of the tech tools that can spread awareness of your organization and facilitate the business side of things.

Mobile Apps and Responsive Design

Consumers will access your nonprofit website and material quite frequently on mobile devices. They’ll also check their email and engage with corporations through this medium. According to research, 50 percent of all email opens occur on mobile devices, and if you don’t have responsive design on your website to catch this mobile traffic, consumers will leave your site with a bad taste in their mouths.

There’s also a variety of mobile apps that can be very useful for nonprofits. Some apps specialize in spreading the word and collecting donations, like One Today and Check-in for Good. You can also use apps for improving the facilitation of your organization, like Buffer or DialMyCalls.

Don’t underestimate the opportunities that mobile devices present your organization. Take advantage of these free and affordable services to bring more attention to your cause.

Analytics

Data is by far the most valued asset for nonprofits. Nonprofit organizations are already prime hubs of data gathering through donations and marketing, and when this information is analyzed, it provides details about the most effective communication channels, successful fundraisers, supporter propensity to donate, and more.

When you need people to give money, time, goods, or services of their own free will, viewing analytics is the best method for coming up with persuasion tactics and knowing how to get people more involved.

Cloud Storage

The cloud is a secure, affordable, and less cumbersome solution for storing files and collaborating with partners. The cloud is the storage base of choice for most businesses because of the security and accessibility. Why wouldn’t it be the choice of nonprofits as well?

Using this platform could be a real game-changer in the industry, cutting out inefficiencies and wasted time from other filing and storage solutions. Additionally, it significantly reduces the risk of lost files and data, which is something that large corporations can barely handle, let alone small nonprofits.

Social Media

This is perhaps the most lucrative channel of communication for nonprofit organizations. Through these highly integrated networks, organizations can connect with potential donors, partners, alumni, patrons, supporters, volunteers, and other individuals who can carry this business forward.

Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter will be your most effective social platforms to start with. These are ideal for making long-term connections, advertising, and communicating with constituents. Google Plus can also be used for boosting search engine optimization and Instagram is a rapidly growing social platform that can help you connect with the younger crowd.

This is a small list of the many, many ways nonprofits can grow their potential through technology. Technology is ever-expanding, boosting both nonprofits and small businesses to greater heights.

Take advantage of as many of these tech opportunities as you can!