In today’s digital age, the Internet has become a powerful tool for connecting people, raising awareness, and driving change. Nonprofit organisations are important in driving positive change within and beyond our communities. To effectively achieve their goals, not-for-profit organisations can take advantage of the full potential of online marketing, and a Google Ad Grant Account is unequivocally the best place to start.
Ready to learn about the importance of a Google Ad Grant Account for non-profit organisations? Here’s what you need to know.
A Grant Account is an initiative offered by Google that provides eligible nonprofit organisations with free advertising credits for use on its traditional Google Ads platform. This initiative allows not-for-profits to reach a wider audience, promote their mission, and drive valuable website traffic. Essentially it’s Google’s way of supporting organisations working to make a positive social impact.
What are the advantages?
1. Cost-Effective Advertising:
The most significant advantage of a Grant Account is that it provides nonprofits with up to $10,000 USD in advertising budgets per month. This allows nonprofits to maximise their online presence without the financial burden of traditional advertising costs.
2. Increased Visibility:
With a Grant Account, nonprofits can appear at the top of Google search results through text ads. This prime real estate on the search engine results page can significantly boost visibility, driving more traffic to the organisation’s website. Increased visibility is crucial for nonprofits to reach potential donors, volunteers, and supporters alike.
3. Targeted Campaigns:
Grant Accounts allow not-for-profits to target specific keywords and demographics, ensuring that their ads are seen by individuals most likely to be interested in their cause. This precision targeting enhances the effectiveness of their advertising efforts.
It’s not all roses; here are some of Grant Account constraints.
Budget Limitations
Google Grant Accounts provide nonprofits with a monthly advertising budget of up to $10,000 USD. While this is a significant amount, it can still be limiting for organisations with ambitious goals and nationwide or global reach.
Bid Restrictions
Grant Accounts have a maximum bid limit of $2.00 per click. This can make it challenging to compete in highly competitive keyword auctions and can be extremely frustrating when campaigns are unable to generate enough impressions to generate click or conversions.
Text-Only Ads
Grant Accounts are limited to text-only ads, which can be less visually engaging compared to other ad formats like image or video ads as used in search partner networks.
Geographic Targeting
Google Ad Grants allow not-for-profits to target a specific geographic region. While this can be advantageous for local organisations, it may limit the reach of national or international nonprofits.
Now that we’ve outlined the pros and cons, here’s how to apply for one
Applying for a Google Ad Grant Account is a straightforward process, but it’s essential to ensure your organisation meets the eligibility criteria and follows Google’s guidelines.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a Google Ad Grant Account:
1. Check Eligibility:
Your organisation must be a registered nonprofit, charitable organisation, or a tax-exempt entity in your country.
- Your website must provide substantial, relevant content to the audience you intend to target with your ads.
- Your organisation must not be involved in activities that Google’s Grant program considers ineligible, such as political lobbying, religious content that promotes a specific faith, and more.
2. Create a Google Account:
If your organisation doesn’t already have one, you must create a Google Account. You’ll use this Google Account to set up and manage your Grant Account.
3. Complete the eligibility form
Fill out the eligibility form provided. You’ll need to provide information about your organisation, including its name, location, website URL, and Tax ID or equivalent documentation. Ensure all the information is accurate and up-to-date.
How easy was that hey!
Google Grant Accounts have proven to be a remarkable resource for nonprofit organisations, offering a significant boost in their online presence and outreach capabilities.
These accounts provide a valuable opportunity for nonprofits to share their missions, attract supporters, and drive positive change without the financial burden of advertising costs. However, it’s important to acknowledge and work within the limitations and policies associated with Google Ad Grants. Adherence to Google’s guidelines, regular optimisation, and a clear understanding of your organisation’s specific objectives are key to making the most of this valuable program.
If you think the application process is a bit out of your skillset or you don’t have the resources to follow this or continuous management of the Grant Account, Feed is here to support you. Contact us to get started today!
Article Published by Katherine Micallef
