Best Email Marketing Software for Nonprofits: Top Tools to Drive Engagement and Donations

Email marketing is one of the most effective and budget-friendly ways for nonprofits to communicate with supporters, build relationships, and drive donations. However, choosing the right email marketing software for nonprofits can be challenging due to budget constraints, technical needs, and the need for personalized communication. Fortunately, several platforms cater specifically to nonprofits, offering useful features and discounts that make it easier to manage campaigns, segment donors, and track engagement.

Why Email Marketing Matters for Nonprofits

Email marketing allows nonprofits to stay connected with donors, volunteers, and advocates. It can help raise awareness for campaigns, share success stories, send newsletters, and solicit donations. According to recent studies, email generates an average ROI of $42 for every $1 spent—making it a high-impact tool for organizations that need to do more with less.

What to Look for in Nonprofit Email Marketing Software

Before choosing the best email marketing software for your nonprofit, consider the following features:

• Nonprofit Discounts: Special pricing or free tiers tailored to nonprofits.
• Ease of Use: A user-friendly interface suitable for teams with limited tech skills.
• Automation Tools: For sending thank-you emails, donor follow-ups, and event reminders.
• Segmentation and Personalization: To target specific donor groups or volunteers with relevant messages.
• Analytics: To track open rates, click-throughs, and donation conversions.
• CRM Integration: Sync with donor management systems for streamlined data use.

Best Email Marketing Software for Nonprofits

1. Mailchimp

Mailchimp is one of the most popular email marketing platforms available and offers a 15% discount for nonprofits. It features an intuitive drag-and-drop email editor, customizable templates, and automation workflows. Nonprofits can use Mailchimp to segment their audience, send regular newsletters, and track engagement with detailed analytics.

Pros: Free tier for up to 500 subscribers, strong automation, integrations with major CRMs like Salesforce.

Cons: Advanced features can get expensive as subscriber counts increase.

2. Constant Contact

Constant Contact is another powerful tool tailored for nonprofit outreach. It offers event management, donation tracking, and marketing automation. Nonprofits can access discounts and a range of templates built specifically for fundraising and advocacy campaigns.

Pros: Built-in donation tools, nonprofit templates, free 60-day trial.

Cons: Fewer advanced automation features compared to some other tools.

3. Sendinblue (Brevo)

Sendinblue, now known as Brevo, offers excellent value for nonprofits with its unlimited contacts policy and affordable pricing. It includes email automation, SMS messaging, A/B testing, and real-time analytics. It’s a good choice for organizations looking to scale their outreach without a huge budget.

Pros: Affordable pricing, powerful automation, GDPR-compliant features.

Cons: The email design interface is slightly less intuitive than competitors.

4. Moosend

Moosend is a budget-friendly email marketing platform with a straightforward interface and powerful automation. It’s ideal for small nonprofits that need robust tools without the steep learning curve.

Pros: Drag-and-drop editor, real-time reporting, easy automation tools.

Cons: Limited third-party integrations compared to larger platforms.

5. GetResponse

GetResponse combines email marketing with additional tools like landing page builders, webinar hosting, and marketing automation. It offers special pricing for nonprofits, making it a versatile solution for organizations that want more than just email.

Pros: Comprehensive toolkit, nonprofit discounts, built-in donation pages.

Cons: Some features may be too complex for beginners.

6. Benchmark Email

Benchmark Email offers a simple and clean interface with easy-to-use features for nonprofits. It supports email templates, A/B testing, and automation workflows. It’s particularly great for organizations that want to create visually appealing emails quickly.

Pros: Modern design templates, solid automation, nonprofit pricing options.

Cons: Limited advanced analytics on lower pricing tiers.

7. Campaign Monitor

Campaign Monitor is known for its excellent design tools and user-friendly interface. It helps nonprofits create beautiful, branded email campaigns and includes segmentation and personalization options. Campaign Monitor offers a 15% nonprofit discount.

Pros: Stunning email templates, intuitive platform, strong analytics.

Cons: Pricey compared to others if you need advanced features.

Tips for Nonprofits Using Email Marketing

Segment Your Audience

Use segmentation to tailor your messaging to different groups—such as first-time donors, recurring donors, volunteers, or event attendees. Personalized communication increases engagement and strengthens relationships.

Automate Thank-You Messages

Set up automation to send thank-you emails immediately after donations. This helps build trust and shows appreciation for donor contributions.

Share Success Stories

Include real-life impact stories in your emails. Donors are more likely to give when they see tangible results from their contributions.

Include a Clear Call to Action (CTA)

Whether you’re asking for a donation, promoting an event, or requesting volunteer support, always include a compelling CTA that directs readers to the next step.

Conclusion

Choosing the best email marketing software for nonprofits depends on your organization’s size, budget, and goals. Platforms like Mailchimp, Constant Contact, and Sendinblue offer strong free or discounted plans for nonprofits, along with useful features like automation, analytics, and CRM integration. With the right tool, your nonprofit can build lasting relationships, increase donations, and amplify its mission—without breaking the bank.