What Is Giving Tuesday?

Each year, the holiday season kicks off with shopping events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday. But right after the sales end comes something very different — Giving Tuesday.

So, what is Giving Tuesday?

It’s a global day dedicated to generosity, kindness, and community. Instead of focusing on spending, millions of people around the world unite on this day to support nonprofits, donate to important causes, and give back to their communities.

In 2025, Giving Tuesday falls on December 2.

What is Giving Tuesday?

Known as GivingTuesday (the official spelling) or Giving Tuesday, it’s a 24-hour worldwide event where nonprofits raise as much money as possible in a single day. Over the years, it has grown into one of the largest fundraising movements in the world, giving organizations a powerful chance to inspire action and rally support.

The movement began at the 92nd Street Y and Belfer Center for Innovation & Social Impact in New York City. Today, it’s is an independent nonprofit and global campaign that inspires hundreds of millions of people to give, collaborate, and celebrate generosity.

When Is Giving Tuesday in 2025?

This year, Giving Tuesday falls on December 2, 2025. The date always lands on the Tuesday after Cyber Monday and Black Friday, making it easy to remember.

Because supporters are already primed for generosity during this season, having your campaign ready ensures your organization is part of the conversation. By showing up with a clear ask and a compelling story, you position your nonprofit to make the most of the momentum.

Mark your calendar for December 2, 2025, and start preparing now. With a strong campaign, your organization can capture attention during one of the most generous days of the year and build lasting support well into the future.

How to Plan a Giving Tuesday Campaign

Planning is the key to making your campaign successful. While the day itself lasts only 24 hours, the preparation behind it determines how much impact you’ll have. A thoughtful campaign allows you to tell your nonprofit’s story, inspire generosity, and connect with both loyal and brand-new supporters. By planning ahead, you’ll create a sense of excitement and urgency that motivates people to give.

Here are some steps to get started with GivingTuesday fundraising:

• Decide what story you want to share about your nonprofit.
• Choose how you will encourage supporters to give.
• Create a dedicated landing page and donation form.
• Launch early using official hashtags and logos.
• Plan 3–5 #GivingTuesday emails in the two weeks leading up to the day.
• Thank your donors and keep them engaged after the campaign.

To maximize the impact of your Giving Tuesday campaign:

• Start planning early.
• Use the official GivingTuesday logo and hashtag.
• Tie your campaign to a specific goal.
• Send reminder emails before the big day.
• Coordinate your team’s efforts on the day itself.

With the right preparation, your campaign can bring in new donors, strengthen connections with current supporters, and make a lasting impact beyond the day itself. Think of it as the launchpad for year-round generosity, not just a one-time push.

Why Should You Participate in Giving Tuesday?

It’s not just another fundraising event — it’s a global movement that amplifies generosity on a massive scale. For nonprofits, this day represents one of the best opportunities all year to gain attention, engage donors, and build momentum. Because so many people anticipate the big day, your organization can benefit from a wave of generosity that’s already in motion.

In 2024 alone:

• 36 million adults in the United States took part.
• They donated a record-breaking $3.6 billion — a 16% increase from the previous year.

For nonprofits, GivingTuesday offers powerful benefits:

• Boost donor engagement
• Increase social media visibility with #GivingTuesday
• Reach new donors
• Build partnerships with companies and other organizations
• Launch recurring donation campaigns
• Highlight specific programs or causes
• Collect valuable donor data

By participating in the day of giving, your nonprofit doesn’t just raise funds — it becomes part of a worldwide celebration of generosity. The exposure, connections, and goodwill you build on this day can fuel stronger relationships and greater impact for the year ahead.

Giving Tuesday Workbook: Everything You Need to Launch Your Campaign

Preparing doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With the right roadmap, you can stay focused, organized, and ready to inspire generosity. The free GiveWP Giving Tuesday Workbook gives you a clear 12-week plan to guide your campaign — from setting goals and creating your donation page to crafting emails and coordinating day-of efforts. Download it today and set your campaign up for success.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Giving Tuesday (or GivingTuesday)?

Giving Tuesday is a global day of giving that takes place every year on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving in the U.S. It encourages people to support nonprofits through donations, volunteering, and acts of kindness.

What is the official name of GivingTuesday? Is it called GivingTuesday or Giving Tuesday?

The official name of the worldwide movement (and the nonprofit that now spearheads it) is GivingTuesday. However, you might see it referred to as Giving Tuesday (two words).

Why is Giving Tuesday important?

It’s one of the biggest fundraising days of the year, helping nonprofits raise billions of dollars while connecting with new and existing donors.

When is Giving Tuesday in 2025?

Giving Tuesday 2025 is on December 2, 2025.

How do nonprofits prepare for Giving Tuesday?

They plan campaigns ahead of time, create donation pages, use social media hashtags, and engage supporters through emails and stories.

Can small nonprofits benefit from Giving Tuesday?

Yes! Even small organizations can gain new supporters, build awareness, and raise meaningful funds with a well-planned campaign.