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Growing Together: How Dona’s Donation Machines Keep Improving Performance

Growing Together: How the Performance of Dona Donation Machines Keeps Improving

April 2025

Comparing the fundraising data of charities in their first 6 months with Dona: how each generation of Dona donation machine performed.
Best contactless fundraising machines for charities rely on continuous improvement - see Dona data

At Dona, everything we do starts with one goal: helping charities fundraise more. When we first launched the Digital Collection Plate (DCP), we knew it had the potential to transform giving. But we also knew that listening, learning, and improving alongside our partners would be key to making it truly powerful.

From Version 1 to Version 2: Smoother, Smarter Giving

When we first moved from Version 1 to Version 2, we made what might sound like a small change: removing an unreliable Bluetooth connection.

But the impact was huge. With a smoother, more reliable donation process, charities saw an average of 49% boost in donations raised over their first first six months of fundraising, compared with charities using the version 1 devices.

From Version 2 to Version 3: Donations Anytime, Anywhere

The next step was even more exciting. By switching from SumUp to Stripe as our payment provider, we were able to launch offline mode — meaning charities could accept donations even without WiFi or 4G.

That freedom led to a 21.8% increase in donations for charities fundraising on Version 3 compared to Version 2, in their first six months with Dona. For more data on the impact made by Offline Mode, see this blog.

Best donation machines for charities in 2025 - performance data by Dona donations

The Bigger Picture: 81.4% More Raised Since the Start

Looking back at the journey so far, the difference is clear. Organisations now raise on average 81.4% more in their first six months with Version 3 compared to those who started out with Version 1. That’s not just an upgrade in tech — it’s a real difference in the funds reaching charities and communities, through all the amazing work our partners do.

Powered by Feedback, Built for You

None of this would be possible without the feedback we receive from the charities we work with. Our UK-based support team makes sure every insight is heard, and our in-house development team turns those ideas into new features and improvements. Together, we’re building technology that grows with your needs.

Looking Ahead to 2025-6

The journey doesn’t stop here. We’ve got new innovations on the way in 2025 that we believe will make an even bigger impact. We can’t wait to share them with you — so watch this space.

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Dona Supports Turning Tides with a ‘Tech For Good’ Donation

Dona Supports Turning Tides with a 'Tech For Good' Donation

April 2025

Extending the lifecycle of technology and using it to create a positive impact
Dona tablets donated to turning tides being presented to the charity

At Dona Donations, we believe in extending the lifecycle of technology and using it to create a positive impact. Our ‘Tech For Good’ ethos is at the heart of everything we do, and we’re delighted to share a recent initiative that embodies this. We have donated 55 reclaimed tablets to a remarkable local charity, Turning Tides.

Turning Tides is a leading provider of services for single homeless people in West Sussex. Started in 1991, the charity is now a powerhouse in the community. In the last year alone, Turning Tides has supported over 200 people in West Sussex into accommodation who were facing homelessness and helped over 1000 people with services offered.. They provide a warm, safe space and real pathways out of homelessness, empowering individuals to create a brighter future for themselves.

Dona tablets donated to turning tides being presented to the charity

The donated tablets, reclaimed from our Digital Collection Plate (DCP) v1s through a Trade-In Offer, will be used in their vital Digital Inclusion Scheme. In an increasingly digital world, access to online services is crucial for people experiencing homelessness to find support and take steps towards securing housing.

Jacqui Wells from Turning Tides shared her excitement about the donation:

“Thank you so much for thinking of us, and we’re pretty excited by the possibilities the donated tablets will offer Turning Tides clients! Our Digital Inclusion service has been running for a few years and sourcing devices is increasingly challenging so this will make a very real difference.”

We are incredibly proud to support Turning Tides not only through our fundraising solutions but also with direct donations that have a tangible impact in our local community. A huge thank you to everyone who made this possible. Together, we are helping charitable organisations and transforming lives.

Find out more about our products;

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How Dona Donation Machines Keep Your Generosity Safe and Secure

How Dona Donation Machines Keep Your Generosity Safe and Secure

April 2025

Peace of Mind with Every Tap
Selection of credit cards held by a person ready to make a secure donation

At Dona, we understand that security is at the top of the list of requirements when selecting a supplier for collecting and handling donations in the digital world we now live in. That’s why our donation machines and platform are designed with the highest standards of security and safety in mind, giving both donors and organisations complete peace of mind.

Here are some common questions and answers we are asked about security and data protection.

Q: What are Dona Donation machines, and why is security so important?

Dona Donation machines are easy-to-use, self-service terminals that allow people to make quick, cashless donations to charities and organisations. We know that the machines need to have the best security available. We want you to feel confident that donations and sensitive data are always protected.

Q: How does Dona protect donor data when I donate?

Donor privacy and security are our top priority. We adhere to stringent regulations to ensure donor personal and card data is always safe:

  • GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) Compliant: This means we handle personal data with the utmost care, ensuring it’s collected, processed, and stored legally and securely within the UK.
  • PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) Compliant: This is a global security standard for organisations that handle branded credit cards. It ensures that card details are protected during every transaction.

In simple terms, these compliances mean we follow strict rules to prevent unauthorised access to donor data, giving you confidence that donations are secure.

Mastercard debit card blue for making a donation

Q: How does Dona ensure our charity’s data is safe?

For charities and organisations, the security of donor information and operational data is critical. Dona goes above and beyond to safeguard this:

  • UK National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) Guidelines: Our systems are built following the best practices and recommendations from the NCSC, the UK’s authority on cyber security. This means we’re constantly thinking about and implementing the most robust security measures.
  • Internationally Recognised Certifications: We’re proud to have achieved two important certifications:
    • ISO 9001 (Quality Management): This certification demonstrates our commitment to consistently providing products and services that meet customer and regulatory requirements. In practice, it means we have processes in place to ensure everything we do, from manufacturing to customer support, is to the highest standard.
    • ISO 27001 (Information Security Management): This is the gold standard for information security. It shows we have a robust system in place to manage risks to the security of the information we hold, whether it’s donor data or our own operational information. Additionally, we’re continuously identifying and addressing potential security threats.

These certifications reinforce trust with our partners, ensure operational excellence, and demonstrate our unwavering commitment to safeguarding data and delivering high standards.

Q: How does Dona keep its machines secure and up-to-date?

Security is ongoing and we ensure our machines are always equipped with the latest protections:

  • Monthly App Updates: The Dona app, which powers our donation machines, is updated every month. These updates bring the latest features and essential security patches to all deployed devices.
  • Regular Security Testing: We carry out regular security testing of our donation machines to identify and address vulnerabilities proactively. This ensures our systems consistently meet high standards of security and resilience.

Automatic Software Updates: For your ease of use and peace of mind, Dona software on Dona donation machines will automatically update when connected to WiFi or 4G. This means your machine is always running the most secure and up-to-date version without you having to do a thing. If you are using your donation machine offline, the app will update the next time you connect your device to a WiFi connection.

What This Means for You:

  • For Donors: They can donate with confidence, knowing their personal and financial information is handled with the highest level of security, adhering to strict UK and international standards. Their generosity is safe with Dona.
  • For Charities & Organisations: You can trust Dona to be a secure, reliable, and compliant partner. Our commitment to quality and information security means you can focus on your vital work, knowing that donor data is protected and your operations are supported by robust, up-to-date technology.

At Dona, security isn’t an afterthought; it’s built into the very core of what we do. We’re dedicated to providing safe and effective solutions that help you make a difference, one secure donation at a time. We regularly review and enhance our security protocols as threats evolve – security is never ‘done’.

If you still have questions around security and data please give our friendly UK team a call and we can provide any further information you require. 

Call: 0203 488 5038

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Dona proudly achieves two ISO certifications

Dona proudly achieves two ISO certifications

April 2025

Showing off the ISO logo as Dona achieved two certifications

Dona is proud to announce our certification for: 

ISO 9001 (Quality Management System):

This certification demonstrates a company’s commitment to consistently providing products and services that meet customer and regulatory requirements, and to continually improving customer satisfaction.

ISO 27001 (Information Security Management System – ISMS):

This certification demonstrates a company’s commitment to effectively managing and protecting sensitive information.

Why did Dona choose to become ISO certified?

Obtaining these certifications demonstrates our commitment to high standards, in both delivering quality and how we protect the information that we hold. The certifications show that we operate efficiently, meet legal and contractual requirements, and give our clients confidence that we operate in a compliant way. They also support us in scaling by ensuring we have the right processes in place.

What did Dona have to achieve, have in place or need to show to be certified?


For ISO 9001, we had to demonstrate that we’re consistently delivering a quality service, from the first contact we have with a charitable organisation, past the point of sale and on to demonstrating continuous value through our customers’ ongoing relationship with our platform. Effectively, that loop never closes. That includes having clear processes, documenting how we work, reviewing feedback, measuring performance, and continuously improving.

For ISO 27001, we demonstrated that we manage information securely — from access controls and backups to how we handle personal data, respond to incidents, and manage supplier relationships. It covers everything from remote working and software development to physical security and cloud systems. Every policy and directive we had in place was reviewed, tested, and aligned with global best practice.

In both cases, we had to evidence not only the systems we’ve built but also how well they’re understood, implemented, and maintained by the team. The foundations of both certifications are relevant to everyone in the business and everything that we do.

What effect does Certification have on Dona as a business?

These certifications help us work and scale in an intelligent and secure way, while maintaining the agility that allows Dona to grow in the market. Internally, they bring structure and consistency which reduces mistakes, and highlights ways in which Dona can improve. Externally, the certifications demonstrate to partners, customers, and regulators that we take quality and security seriously, potentially opening doors to new opportunities and reassuring stakeholders that their business is secure with Dona.

What does the certification mean for Dona customers?

The bottom line is that our customers can have greater confidence in us. ISO 9001 ensures we are committed to delivering a consistently high standard of service, and ISO 27001 ensures that their data and information is being handled with care, following globally recognised best practice. It also means we are actively assessing risks, preventing issues before they happen, and constantly improving how we work.

These certifications are not a ‘one-off’. We audit internally on an annual basis, as well as annual audits from an external auditor. This ensures our ongoing commitment to maintaining the standards and not just meeting their requirements once.

ISO certification logos and a quote from Will

When asked about how he felt about achieving ISO certification Managing Director, Elroy Fernandes was quoted as saying: 

“Dona is a company that not only cares deeply but operates at a world-class standard.”

To find out more about our fundraising technology products, request a brochure or speak to our UK sales team today.

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How can councils leverage contactless technology?

How can councils leverage contactless technology for the good of the community?

November 2024

Councils in the UK receive funding from a range of places, including:

Council tax, grants, business rates and fees and charges.

Many councils find these funds do not fully cover the full spectrum of projects they would like to support within the communities they serve. Hence, there is a need to raise additional resources. With contactless technology, these projects can be given a boost with self-service terminals that do not require a huge initial outlay, extra staff or extensive training.

Which projects can councils use contactless donation terminals for?

Here are some great examples of fundraising projects that can be supported with contactless donation terminals.

  1. Fundraising for Specific Projects:
  • Community Centres: Support the construction or renovation of community centres for various activities.
  • Parks and Recreation: Fund new playgrounds, walking trails, or sports facilities.
  • Libraries: Contribute to the purchase of books, computers, or educational resources.
  • Cultural Events: Help with costs to organise local festivals, concerts, or art exhibitions.

 

Fundraising at a local library for a council event
  1. Supporting Community Services:
  • Food Banks: Provide funds for food purchases, storage, and distribution.
  • Homelessness Shelters: Contribute to operating costs and essential services.

A great example from Cambridge City Council who have utilised contactless technology on the streets – with the public making small donations in a fight to tackle homelessness. For as little as £3 – the price of a cup of coffee.

https://www.cambridge.gov.uk/news/2024/10/07/street-aid-week-real-change-for-the-price-of-a-coffee

 

  • Elderly Care: Support programs that assist with transportation or meals.
  • Youth Programs: Fund after-school activities, mentoring, or vocational training.

 

  1. Addressing Environmental Concerns:
  • Conservation Efforts: Contribute to habitat preservation, wildlife conservation, or pollution reduction initiatives.
  • Renewable Energy: Support the installation of solar panels or wind turbines in public spaces.
  • Recycling Programs: Fund additional recycling facilities or educational campaigns.

 

  1. Improving Infrastructure:
  • Road Maintenance: Contribute to road repairs, pothole filling, or traffic calming measures.
  • Public Transportation: Support improvements to bus or train services.
  • Accessibility: Fund projects to make public spaces more accessible for people with disabilities.
  1. Enhancing Community Well-being:

 

  • Mental Health Services: Support counselling, support groups, or crisis intervention programs.
  • Substance Abuse Treatment: Fund rehabilitation centres or prevention programs.
  • Health Promotion: Support health education campaigns or community health clinics.

 

Where is the best place to position contactless donation terminals?

Placing self-service donation terminals in areas with high footfall is a great way to raise funds. It is quick and easy for donors to ‘tap and go’ as regularly as they like. Providers like Dona donations make it easy for charities to collect Gift Aid too, enhancing each eligible donation value by 25%.

The local library, leisure centre or shopping mall are all places that could raise much needed funds.  Each terminal can have location specific funds that users can donate to making them more likely to give to a fund that would personally benefit them or their community.

Councils often run local events, such as firework displays or carnivals.  Contactless terminals are perfect for placing at these events where a large part of the community will be gathering and enjoying local entertainment.

Council fireworks display

Choosing a contactless fundraising provider for your council.

Dona Donations are an excellent choice of partner for contactless fundraising terminals and provide a custom solution for councils. See how the features and benefits below can help to boost local campaigns:

 

  1. Transparency – the Dona Management Portal allows councils to view donations in real-time and allocate to charity projects in a timely manner.
  2. Funds – many councils support multiple charity projects throughout the year. With the Funds feature (max of 20 funds), they can display the various projects and causes the community can contribute to, to motivate and inform about what they are doing to give back.
  3. Revenue Boosting – The average donation made using Dona is £12-£14, typically much higher than cash donations. And with market-leading transaction rates, more funds go directly to the projects you care about.
  4. Screensavers – allow the council to customise and update their branding and messaging throughout the year so the donation terminals reflect current brand standards and messaging.
  5. Celebration – the Dona Management Portal allows the council to view donation totals and celebrate fundraising milestones easily.
  6. Raising Awareness – many people don’t realise that councils support local charities and help with the start-up and ongoing operational needs of local community projects. Donors who register for Gift Aid or ‘Keep In Touch’, will receive email communications to spread awareness of initiatives they can engage with.
  7. Flexible, simple and fast – councils having the ability to financially support charitable projects via self-service donation terminals. It is mutually beneficial as they don’t need to have staff at every event but can still deploy the portable donation terminals quickly to help fund the activities at short notice or at remote events.

If you would like to see more, please contact us for a demo today   

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