Church leaders face a common challenge: how to sustain and grow giving in an increasingly digital world. While the mission remains timeless, the methods for collecting donations must evolve to meet modern donor expectations. Here are seven proven strategies to increase church donations in 2026.
1. Embrace Multiple Giving Methods
Today's congregation includes multiple generations with different payment preferences. While older members may still prefer cash or checks, younger donors expect digital options.
Solution: Offer diverse giving methods including:
- Traditional cash and check collection
- Contactless tap-to-pay terminals in the lobby
- Online giving through your church website
- Mobile app donations
- QR codes in bulletins and pews
Result: Churches offering 3+ giving methods see 35% higher overall donations compared to cash-only collection.
2. Make Giving Visible and Accessible
Out of sight, out of mind applies to charitable giving. Strategic placement of donation stations in high-traffic areas—church lobbies, fellowship halls, event spaces—keeps giving top of mind.
Best locations:
- Main entrance and exit points
- Coffee and fellowship areas
- Near children's ministry check-in
- Event registration tables
Design tip: Use LED-lit donation kiosks that draw attention while maintaining the reverent atmosphere of your space.
3. Communicate Impact Clearly
Donors give more generously when they understand exactly how their contributions make a difference. Regular communication about how funds are used builds trust and encourages continued giving.
Communication strategies:
- Monthly financial transparency reports
- Specific campaign updates (building fund, missions, community outreach)
- Testimonials from people helped by church programs
- Visual displays showing progress toward goals
4. Create Seasonal and Special Campaigns
Beyond regular tithes and offerings, targeted campaigns for specific needs generate additional support and engagement.
Effective campaign ideas:
- Easter and Christmas special offerings
- Back-to-school community support
- Thanksgiving food drive funding
- Mission trip sponsorships
- Building maintenance and improvement funds
Pro tip: Use your donation kiosks to feature current campaigns with customized messaging and suggested giving amounts.
5. Simplify Recurring Giving
Recurring donations provide stable, predictable income for church operations and programs. Make it easy for members to set up automatic monthly or weekly giving.
Benefits of recurring giving:
- Consistent cash flow for budgeting
- Higher lifetime donor value
- Convenience for busy members
- Continued support even when members travel
Implementation: Promote recurring giving options through announcements, bulletin inserts, and personal invitations from church leadership.
6. Leverage Technology for Engagement
Modern fundraising platforms provide valuable insights into giving patterns, helping church leaders make informed decisions about campaigns and communication.
Key metrics to track:
- Total giving by week, month, and year
- Average donation amounts
- New vs. returning donors
- Campaign performance
- Giving method preferences
Action step: Review donation data monthly to identify trends and opportunities for improvement.
7. Train and Equip Your Team
Your staff and volunteers are ambassadors for generosity. Ensure they understand how to use donation technology, answer questions, and encourage giving in appropriate ways.
Training topics:
- How to use contactless donation terminals
- Answering common donor questions
- Promoting giving opportunities naturally
- Troubleshooting technical issues
- Maintaining donor privacy and security
Implementing These Strategies
You don't need to implement all seven strategies at once. Start with the areas where your church has the greatest opportunity for improvement.
Quick-start action plan:
- Assess your current giving methods and identify gaps
- Choose 2-3 strategies to implement first
- Set measurable goals (e.g., "increase digital giving by 20% in 6 months")
- Communicate changes clearly to your congregation
- Monitor results and adjust as needed
The Heart of Giving
While technology and strategy are important, remember that giving is ultimately a spiritual practice. These tools and techniques simply remove barriers, making it easier for your congregation to express their generosity and support your church's mission.
By meeting donors where they are—with convenient, secure, and engaging giving options—you create opportunities for increased generosity that funds ministry, serves your community, and advances God's kingdom.
Looking for contactless donation solutions for your church? Explore our CharityWall, CharityStand, and CharityDesk options designed specifically for places of worship.