Whether placed in a busy venue or a quiet community space, these devices can become a powerful, low-maintenance part of your fundraising strategy. But to get the most from them, thoughtful planning and promotion are essential.
If you're considering investing in unattended giving solutions, here are some key considerations to help you succeed:
Strategic Considerations
Location is Key
The right location can make all the difference. Position your devices in high-footfall areas—such as entrances, exits, reception desks, shop counters, or event spaces. The more visible and accessible the device, the more likely it is to catch attention and inspire action.
Clear, Compelling Messaging
Use clear, engaging signage to explain:
- How to donate (e.g. “Tap to Give £5”)
- Where the money goes (e.g. “Your donation helps fund local mental health support”)
- Why it matters A simple, effective message can turn curiosity into a meaningful contribution.
Learn From the Data
Choose devices that offer basic analytics. Even when unattended, they can provide useful insights—such as peak donation times, average gift size, and donation frequency—to help you optimise your setup over time.
Test and Adapt
Don’t be afraid to experiment. Try out different locations, donation amounts, or signage. Track what works best, and use those insights to refine your approach for even better results.
Device & Logistics Considerations
Security and Durability
Unattended devices must be robust. Look for models that are weather-resistant, tamper-proof, and designed for public use. Secure installation is key to reducing the risk of damage or theft.
Power Management
Power is essential for uninterrupted operation. Ensure your devices:
- Have long battery life
- Can connect to a mains power source where available
- Follow a reliable charging or swap-out schedule
Maintenance and Rotation Plan
Regular checks help ensure everything runs smoothly. Set up a simple routine to:
- Check device condition
- Recharge or replace as needed
- Move devices between locations, if applicable
A well-maintained device is more likely to attract trust—and donations.
Donor Experience & Engagement
Flexible Giving Options
Give donors choice. Offer a range of preset donation amounts and include a “choose your own amount” option. This flexibility empowers donors to give according to their means and motivation.
Spread the Word
Promotion matters—even for unattended devices. Make sure:
- Your team knows where devices are and how to use them
- You promote them across your website, newsletters, events, and social media
- You highlight their impact to encourage use
Encourage Generosity
Contactless devices often outperform cash boxes in average donation value. Don’t hesitate to include higher preset amounts—when the process is easy and the message is compelling, many donors are happy to give more.
Final Thought
Unattended contactless donation devices allow your charity to receive vital support 24/7, without needing someone physically present. With thoughtful planning, compelling messaging, and a bit of ongoing maintenance, they can deliver consistent and meaningful results for your cause—quietly working in the background, every day.
Toucan Giving Display Solutions
At Toucan Giving, we partner with a wide range of trusted display providers to help you bring your contactless donation vision to life.
Whether you're looking for:
- Wall-mounted units
- Window displays
- Free-standing kiosks
- Interactive displays
- Or rugged options for rural or outdoor settings
We’re here to help you find the right solution that works for your space, your budget, and your supporters.
The possibilities are endless—and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Get in touch with our team to explore how we can help you make the most of unattended contactless giving.
