If you’re still using the same clipart logo your cousin Debbie made in Microsoft Word 8 years ago, it might be wise to consider a redesign. Your nonprofit’s logo is shown to potential partners, sponsors, donors, and supporters and can make a lasting first impression.
Below are 6 nonprofit logo designs that are doing things right.
1) Be Clever
What happens if the letter that represents your organization’s name can also be a symbol that represents your values? Awesomeness.
Goodwill’s often-overlooked logo, cleverly disguising the letter ‘g’ within half a smiley face. Or is it the other way around?
2) Simple does it
Nothing crazy, just use the name and swap out a letter or two.
Less is more. Feeding America altered one letter and called it a day.
3) Negative space rules
Think outside the box, or inside the panda. If your logo can be in one color, chances are it capitalizes on negative space.
All black and only half there. The WWF logo is a timeless example.
4) Be Bold
Stand out amongst the pack with bold shapes, bold colors and bold fonts.
Nothing screams “look at me” more than a thick block of black & yellow, and the International Rescue Committee logo does just that.
5) Obvious
There’s often a blurred line between cliché and cool, so it’s critical to find a good balance.
The American Heart Association logo. It’s obviously not about lung research.
6) Strong Initialism
Some of the world’s most well known brands are simply known for a few letters. Make your brand unique and stand out.
Planned Parenthood, with two powerful P’s that may or may not be something else.
Conclusion
Your logo is your brand, a visual representation of your nonprofit organization. Having a great looking logo and a great website for your nonprofit play a crucial role in attracting new supporters and building your brand.
If you have any logos that you love, or if you want to share your organization’s logo, leave them in the comments.
—Shane
