QUESTION:
If you want to market to nonprofits and organizations that cater to teens or young adults, what would be the best avenue of getting all their attention, rather than going to each company separately?
ANSWER:
Naomi Kokubo
by Naomi Kokubo, Cofounder of Founders Space
I’m not familiar with all the nonprofits that cater to teens, but I’m sure there’s a network out there, and I’m positive they have conferences and websites where they exchange ideas and partner with one another.
Here’s what I’d suggest:
1) Directly contact a few of these nonprofits and try to meet with them in person.
2) Ask them what conferences they attend, what organizations they belong to, and how they find out about new ideas and technology.
3) Go directly to the sources where they get their information and begin marketing yourself. This could be an annual conference, a blog, a website, or an organization that connects these types of nonprofits.
I hope this helps get you started!
I am the board chair of the Central Shih Yu-lang YMCA in San Francisco which has extensive programs for teens and young adults. Another avenue to consider, is looking at national programs like the YMCA of USA and others to create a calendar of national conferences. It is a great way to connect with everyone on the local level through a single event with immense impact. you can learn more about us at YMCA.net.
Finally, I also run a PR & Marketing firm and the Chronicle of Philanthropy has been a reliable source for me for years.
Best of luck!