New survey reveals limited but ‘not surprising’ drop in Dutch donations

Most charities in the Netherlands expect their income to decline in the near future, but Dutch association Goede Doelen Nederland believes donors will recognise that nonprofits’ work is “more relevant than ever” during the current economic crisis.

More than 60 of the organisation’s members responded to an income and donations survey, which found that half have not seen a reduction in their income so far. However, of these, 83% are expecting the current economic climate to negatively impact their income.

Nearly half of those surveyed (45%) have already seen a decline in donations from individuals. Most (60%) of those organisations however say that the reduction in individual donations has been less than 10%. Around a third reported a decrease of 10-20%, with a small percentage seeing a sharper drop.

The survey also suggests that revenue decreases are more significant among charities with an income of less than €5mn per year, compared with those with larger incomes.

Margreet Plug, director of Goede Doelen Nederland, said it was “not surprising” that charity sector fundraising was affected by the rising cost of living, but added:

“Fortunately, in previous crises it appeared that most donors continue to support the work of charities. After all, that work is relevant and of great value to society. Think of health research, poverty reduction, food banks, international and domestic aid, care for the environment and climate and conservation of nature and culture. In times of crisis, charities are more relevant than ever.”

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