According to Statista.com, Generation Z (Gen Z) makes up 27 percent of the U.S. population, far surpassing baby boomers and millennials. Someone is considered Gen Z if they were born between the mid-90s and the mid-2000s.

Although they are just starting to enter the workforce, by the year 2020, it is predicted that Gen Z will make up 40 percent of all consumers. hat does this mean for your nonprofit? It means that there are plenty of ways to appeal to Gen Z and reach a greater audience for events. Here are the 5 ways to make it work for your nonprofit.

1. Technology

We are all aware that the use of technology is important when it comes to staying up-to-date on trends and connecting with your donors. Gen Z is often referred to as the “iGen” for obvious reasons – they are the first generation to grow up in a completely digital age, never knowing what life was like without technology. 

Be sure to step up the technology game at your next event with mobile or online giving, or photobooths so they can see that giving can be fun. If you need inspiration you can read our technology trends article here.

2. Social Media

It is no longer an option of whether or not you would like to connect with donors through social media channels. Gen Z is on social media and they aren’t choosing just one specific channel to express their interests and buy into a product. Gen Z finds most of their products on Instagram, and 45 percent of the generation is using Instagram for brand discovery. 

Is your nonprofit on Instagram? There are plenty of resources out there for you to determine the best route to take when you create an account. When it comes to hosting your next event, don’t forget the hashtags (ones that will generate traffic and also some fun and clever ones) to get the Gen Z audience interested. Another great way to utilize social media is by scheduling posts. This is a simple way to make sure you are constantly keeping up with your audience. 

3. Simplify and Deliver

Just like technology and social media, we are in a fast-paced culture that thrives off the immediacy. Think about online ordering with Amazon. Did you ever think you’d live during a time where you could order pretty much anything you wanted online, AND have them delivered that same day? It might seem obvious in 2019, but I bet 15 years ago it would have been a foreign concept. 

Gen Z wants to see things made simply and they want it clear and concise – no beating around the bush. Don’t tell them what you want, show them what you want. How is this practical at your nonprofit event? Something like a real-time view of how much is being raised at your event will motivate everyone to give. 

4. Pull on their Heartstrings

Gen Z might just be getting into the working world, but when it comes to getting them involved early, you have the potential to keep them loyal for life! Unfortunately, they were born during a time of war, terror and financial crisis. They want to see their generation do better. They are showing interest in areas like equality, homelessness and the environment. 

This doesn’t mean that if your nonprofit isn’t one of the aforementioned they aren’t willing to get involved, but find what makes your nonprofit ‘tick’ and use that to your advantage. Show the younger generation why your cause is the best cause. 

5. Don’t Underestimate Them

Remember that percentage mentioned earlier — 27%. They will make up the future of consumers in our economy, and they will be making informed decisions of what they are passionate about. Hook them in by getting them to volunteer at your event. 

Just because they might not have the finances right now doesn’t mean they won’t have the spending capacity a few years from now. Get them involved in your nonprofit. Bring them to your next event so they can see the importance of being the next generation of givers, and pay attention to Gen Z.