60 Second Success: The Advantages of TikTok for Nonprofits

In just 60 seconds, TikTok users tell stories that educate, inspire, and drive change. The TikTok generation – a term frequently used to refer to individuals born after 1996, or otherwise known as  “Generation Z” –  is proving that even the shortest stories can make a significant difference in our world. 

According to HubSpot’s “The Marketer’s Guide to TikTok”, TikTok is the fastest social network to reach the 1 billion user milestone, making it a “social media powerhouse”. TikTok has been known for its incredible use for massive for-profit companies like Amazon and Google, to grow their platform and build revenue through the power of authentic, short-form video. 

But the true power of TikTok lies in the fact that you do not need to be a massive for-profit brand to leverage the platform successfully. In this post, we’ll explore how TikTok can elevate nonprofit missions and inspire real change. 

Compelling Storytelling In 60 Seconds (or Less!)

With its unique approach to content creation, TikTok has revolutionized the way users engage with social media, here are three ways: 

  • TikTok’s format allows for quick, engaging videos that capture viewers’ attention within a matter of seconds. This emphasis on brevity forces creators to be concise and impactful with their messaging.

  • The platform thrives on raw, authentic content. Unlike polished, highly produced videos seen on other platforms, TikTok videos often feel more genuine and relatable, resonating deeply with viewers.

  • Beyond entertainment, TikTok has become a hub for educational content. Users share knowledge on various topics, from cooking recipes to historical facts, and from DIY projects to social justice issues.

Moving from compelling storytelling in under 60 seconds, let’s dive deeper into how nonprofits can use Tiktok to create a change and develop awareness:

3 Ways Nonprofits Can Use TikTok to Drive Change

  • Raising Awareness: Nonprofits have tapped into TikTok’s potential to raise awareness about their causes. Short, impactful videos can quickly educate viewers about important issues, from environmental conservation to human rights.

FOX TIP: Don’t forget that your nonprofit has a wide-array of great stories to tell! The best way to enhance brand and mission awareness is to tell stories from many different community perspectives: program participants, volunteers, donors, staff, board members, and corporate partners.

  • Building an Engaged Community: Nonprofits use TikTok to build supportive communities around their missions. By engaging with followers through comments, challenges, and live streams, they create a sense of belonging and collective effort.

  • Providing a Clear Call-to-Action: TikTok stories often motivate people to take action in their communities. Whether it’s participating in a local clean-up, donating to a cause, or simply spreading the word, these short videos can spark real-world change.

So, the next time you think your story is too brief to matter, remember that on TikTok, a minute is all it takes to make an impact. What is the future of Tiktok for Nonprofits?

The Future of TikTok for Nonprofits

  • Innovative Campaigns: Nonprofits are continually finding new and creative ways to use TikTok for campaigns such as fundraising or live interactive sessions. This branches out new audience and can tail into a bigger engagement. 

  • Collaboration with Influencers: Partnering with TikTok influencers can amplify a nonprofit’s message. Influencers bring their large followings and credibility, helping to reach a broader audience.

  • Data-Driven Strategies: Analyzing TikTok’s metrics allows nonprofits to refine their strategies, ensuring their content is as effective as possible. Understanding what resonates with viewers helps in creating more impactful campaigns.

Nonprofits Who Have Found Success On TikTok

The TikTok world is big enough for everyone! Whether you’ve just downloaded the app or you’re a seasoned scroller, we encourage you to take the leap and start posting about the great work you do! Here are a few nonprofits that are standing out on TikTok:

  • The Ocean Cleanup: This nonprofit uses TikTok to educate people about ocean pollution and their efforts to clean it up. Their videos, featuring stunning visuals and compelling facts, have garnered millions of views and inspired many to support their cause.

  • Feeding America: By sharing stories of individuals impacted by food insecurity, Feeding America has raised awareness and funds to combat hunger. Their TikTok presence has helped mobilize volunteers and donors across the country.

  • Amnesty International: Through powerful, short videos highlighting human rights abuses, Amnesty International has engaged a younger audience, encouraging them to advocate for change and support global human rights initiatives.

FOX TIP: MemoryFox is on TikTok! Give us a follow to learn easy fundraising tips, get to know our team, and learn about the storytelling successes of the great nonprofits that work with us. 

TikTok has revolutionized the way stories are told and shared, proving that even a 60-second video can have a profound impact. For nonprofits, this platform offers a unique opportunity to educate, inspire, and drive meaningful change. As the TikTok generation continues to grow, so too does the potential for short stories to make a big difference. So, the next time you think your story is too brief to matter, remember that on TikTok, a minute is all it takes to make an impact.

elisa nguyen memoryfox marketing intern

About the Author

Elisa Nguyen
Marketing Intern, MemoryFox

Elisa Nguyen is a Marketing Intern at MemoryFox. She is currently a Business Marketing Student at San Diego State University, and currently holds an Associate’s Degree from Bellevue College. Prior to joining the MemoryFox team, Elisa has been involved in numerous mission-driven organizations that assist individuals with cancer and disabilities, as well as held several roles where she has excelled at marketing and social media coordination. She looks forward to using her skills to connect new mission-driven organizations to the value of MemoryFox. Connect with her in LinkedIn.