Summary: Branded merchandise creates opportunities for small nonprofits to build awareness, engagement, pride, and fundraising. On-demand printing and online stores make selling branded merchandise a low-risk, low-cost activity that can deliver a big impact. In this article, we’ll discuss the value of branded merchandise for small nonprofits, how it works, and what to look for in vendors.
Supporters love showing off the causes they care about – and branded merchandise makes that easy. Nonprofit branded merchandise can boost visibility, build community pride, and even bring in a little extra funding.
For small nonprofits, offering merchandise might seem like a heavy lift. But with the right approach – whether through a local printer, a bulk order for an event, or a print-on-demand platform – it’s more doable than you might think.
In this post, we’ll walk through the benefits of branded merchandise and how your nonprofit can get started, no matter your size or bandwidth.
What is branded merchandise for small nonprofits? Should my small nonprofit offer branded merchandise?
Branded merchandise refers to products that display your organization’s logo. They can also be used to highlight events, campaigns, and/or sponsors.
There are thousands of types of branded merchandise and promotional items – just about anything can have a logo added to it – the top five most popular items, according to a 2025 VistaPrint survey, are:
- T-shirts
- Pens
- Tote bags
- Flashlights
- Hoodies
When it comes to swag, 80% of survey respondents said practicality and usefulness are most important. Nearly six in 10 (58%) said receiving branded merchandise positively changed their perception of a brand.
And people aren’t just looking for freebies. 71% of respondents said they would buy a product that they like and would use, while 43% said they would buy it just to support the organization.
Every branded merchandise item is an opportunity to:
- Increase visibility and awareness
- Spark conversations
- Build pride
- Promote specific events and campaigns
- Raise funds for your programs and services (secondary to the other benefits!)
Branded Merchandise Options for Nonprofits: Inventory, Online, and On-Site
Managing branded merchandise can feel intimidating for small nonprofits. The good news? There are more options than ever—varying in cost, flexibility, and effort. Each approach has its place, depending on your team’s time, storage space, and goals.
Traditional Inventory (Buy in Bulk)
Buying merchandise in advance is the classic approach: you order a set quantity of shirts, tote bags, or other items in various sizes and colors, then sell or distribute them.
This model can be cost-effective if you’re confident about demand – especially for annual events, walkathons, or limited-time campaigns. Bulk pricing typically gives you the lowest cost per item and higher profit margins (if you’re selling the items). But it also means you’re responsible for storage, shipping, and the risk of leftover inventory.
Check out Elpis Enterprises, which provides jobs for youth at risk of housing instability. You can also work with a local screen printer or small business—partnering locally supports your community.
Online Print-on-Demand Stores
Platforms like Bonfire, Printful, and Cloztalk have transformed how small nonprofits offer merch. You upload your logo or design, set up a free online storefront, and supporters place orders directly through the platform. Items are printed and shipped by the vendor as orders come in – no inventory, no manual processing.
This approach is ideal for small nonprofit teams. You might not make as much per item due to higher base costs, but it’s hassle-free and sustainable (nothing gets produced unless someone orders it). Bonus: some platforms let buyers add a small donation at checkout.
Live On-Site Printing
At in-person events, there’s also the option of hiring a mobile merch vendor who prints items on demand right in front of your attendees. Think of it as a custom merch booth – people choose their size and design, and walk away with a freshly printed shirt in minutes.
This setup can create excitement, eliminate guesswork, and serve as a fun draw for tabling events, festivals, or sports tournaments. It’s usually arranged with local screen printers or specialty vendors who travel to events.
Comments from Nonprofits that Have Sold Branded Merchandise
- “We added hoodies after supporters asked. People loved it. We now do event-themed merch for our annual programs.”
- “I only wear shirts from causes I support. It’s a way to share my values.”
- “We’re a small org, but we make a couple thousand a year from shirts + donations.”
- “We used to handle inventory – never again. Made-to-order was a game changer.”
Tips for Small Nonprofits to Get Started Selling Branded Merchandise
Here are a few key factors to consider, based on what matters most to your small nonprofit:
- Customer service: What are their policies? Do reviews indicate a history of responsiveness and customer satisfaction?
- Inventory syncing: If you’re using an e-commerce integration like Shopify, how are inventory updates handled?
- Pricing: What additional fees are involved? Can they provide price points that are reasonable for your supporters and allow you to turn a small profit?
- Sustainability: Do they offer eco-friendly materials or on-demand printing to avoid overproduction?
- Storage space: If you’re considering bulk orders, do you have the space to store extra inventory?
- Need for items on hand: Will you need merchandise available on-site for specific donors, tabling events, giveaways, or walk-up sales?
Also, consider different designs for your staff and volunteers so the public knows who represents and works for your nonprofit.
Remember, branded merchandise is more than a cool t-shirt or hoodie. Each item is an opportunity to make your nonprofit part of someone’s life, connect with new supporters, and even create a new fundraising stream. Focus on your mission and usefulness, not dollars, and consider offering merchandise that showcases your organization!
