Crypto is the future. And it’s not just for tech nerds anymore. More and more donors are using cryptocurrency to support the causes they love. So, why not make it easy for them to give to your organization?
If your NGO website uses WordPress and GiveWP for donations, you’re in luck. Enabling crypto donations is easier than you think. We’ll walk you through how to make it happen — step by step, and without the jargon.
Why Accept Crypto Donations?
Before we dive in, let’s talk about why this is even worth your time. Crypto donations are fast, secure, and borderless. Plus, they often come with no processing fees. That’s more money for your mission and less for middlemen.
Here are some reasons to love crypto donations:
- Global reach: Anyone, anywhere can donate.
- Lower fees: Cut down on expensive third-party charges.
- Marketing boost: Crypto is trendy and gets attention.
- New donor base: Attract tech-savvy supporters.
What You’ll Need
To accept crypto with GiveWP, you need just a few things:
- A WordPress website with the GiveWP plugin installed.
- An account with a crypto payment processor (we’ll recommend a few).
- A few minutes to set it all up!
Let’s roll up our sleeves and get started.
Step 1: Choose a Crypto Payment Gateway
You need a service to accept and process crypto payments for you. These platforms can help:
- Coinbase Commerce
- NOWPayments
- BitPay
- Crypto.com Pay
All of them integrate well with WordPress. But for ease of use, we recommend Coinbase Commerce or NOWPayments. They’re user-friendly and reliable.
Step 2: Create Your Crypto Account
Let’s say you’re using Coinbase Commerce.
- Go to commerce.coinbase.com
- Sign up for a new account.
- Verify your email and set up two-factor authentication (for safety!).
- Link your crypto wallet or set one up if you don’t have one.
Once that’s done, you’ll get an API key. Keep it safe — you’ll need it soon!
Step 3: Install a WordPress Crypto Plugin
There’s no official GiveWP plugin for crypto… yet. But no worries, other plugins fill the gap beautifully.
Check out these popular crypto gateway plugins:
- NOWPayments Crypto Donations
- Accept Cryptocurrency Donations – CoinPayments
- Digital Paybox
To install one:
- Go to your WordPress dashboard.
- Click Plugins → Add New.
- Search for “crypto donations”.
- Install and activate your chosen plugin.
Step 4: Connect the Plugin to GiveWP
Most crypto donation plugins offer a shortcode or widget. Here’s what to do:
- Copy the widget code or shortcode from your crypto plugin.
- Add it to your GiveWP form or donation page. You can do this in the form editor or in the page content.
- Paste the code where you want your crypto payment options to appear.
Now your donation form will display both fiat (card, PayPal) and crypto options.
Step 5: Customize Your Donation Page
You want your page to look awesome and build trust. Add some design magic!
- Clearly label each payment type.
- Use donation tiers or buttons for popular crypto amounts (like 0.01 BTC).
- Add a note: “Prefer to give with crypto? We’ve got you covered!”
Also, consider adding logos for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other coins you accept.
Step 6: Test Everything
Before you start shouting “We take Crypto!” from the rooftops, make sure everything works.
Do a test donation using a small amount of crypto (like $1 worth). Check that:
- The transaction goes through.
- You receive the funds in your wallet.
- You and the donor both get confirmation emails.
If anything looks off, double-check your API keys and plugin settings.
Step 7: Promote Your New Payment Option
Hooray! You’re now crypto-friendly! Let your supporters know.
- Post an announcement on social media.
- Send an email to your mailing list.
- Add a banner to your homepage.
- Write a blog post explaining why you accept crypto.
Use hashtags like #CryptoForGood and #DonateCrypto to reach the right audience.
Bonus Tips
Want to level up? Here are some extra ideas:
- Offer NFT perks for crypto donors (like custom thank-you art).
- Track donations with Google Analytics and UTM codes.
- Add a QR code for easier mobile crypto giving.
Oh, and don’t forget security. Keep your wallet and passwords protected!
Wrapping Up
Adding crypto to your GiveWP donation form isn’t hard. In fact, it’s a smart move. You’re reaching a new generation of givers, saving on fees, and showing the world that your NGO is ready for the future.
So go ahead — connect your wallet, paste in those shortcodes, and watch your donations grow in both dollars and digital coins.
Crypto is here to stay. And now your mission is, too.