Toto, we’re not in Kansas anymore. The proverbial house has fallen on AmazonSmile, and it is dead as a doornail. Uproar and opinions of all kinds are circulating in regard to this news. We, on the other hand, could not be more relieved.
In today’s episode, we’re explaining how AmazonSmile worked, how it didn’t actually serve or benefit nonprofits in any significant way, misconceptions around the program, and why you should be focusing on fundraising that actually cultivates donors.
What’s in this episode:
- [02:55] How AmazonSmile worked, how little money actually went to individual nonprofits, and how wishlists are different (and not impacted by the downfall of Smile)
- [10:16] How Amazon has decided their impact level “isn’t working” 10 years into the program, and the range of comments we’ve seen in response to this news
- [18:10] The reason this program worked completely in Amazon’s favor, and how some people have the misconception that purchasing through Smile is the same as donating (it’s not)
- [20:05] The actual impact on nonprofits (which ain’t great, let’s be honest), and other ways to actually build relationships with your donors (which you can’t do through AmazonSmile)
Do you love our show and want to hear even more from us? You can get behind-the-scenes episodes and more by supporting us on Patreon! We have plans starting at just $3 a month. Can’t wait to see you there!
Resources Mentioned
- Fundraising Everywhere’s article on AmazonSmile’s demise
- Amazon’s statement on AmazonSmile
- NPR’s article on the end of AmazonSmile
- AP News article on AmazonSmile
A big thanks to our sponsors for this episode on sabbaticals: Brittny Wilson Consulting and Mission Launch, and to Jake Walker Music for our theme song!