Updated on 6/15 to include a new graphic comparing multiple website building platforms.
An honest guide to choosing the right website platform for your nonprofit.
“I just need a simple website for our nonprofit, but there are so many options… which one should I choose?”
If that question sounds familiar, you’re not alone. I hear it almost daily from leaders who are ready to build their online presence but feel stuck at the very first decision.
I’ve spent over a decade in the nonprofit world, and I’ve seen too many passionate founders (just like you) juggling a hundred priorities at once—fundraising deadlines, community events, board meetings, and that 2 a.m. volunteer email that definitely couldn’t wait. In that whirlwind, figuring out where to build your website often feels like one task too many.
Here’s what I want you to know: You don’t need a computer science degree or a fancy marketing agency to create a website that actually works for your organization. What you do need is a platform that meets you where you are right now, supports your long-term vision, and doesn’t make you want to chuck your laptop across the room (we’ve all been there).
As someone who’s built websites for grassroots organizations while simultaneously organizing for campaigns and ballot initiatives, I understand the unique challenges you’re facing.
The Quick Breakdown
Wix: The Quick & Easy Option for Beginners
Why people love it:
Wix is a drag-and-drop builder with tons of ready-to-go templates. You don’t need to know code or hire anyone to get started, which is perfect when you’re already stretched thin.
Great for you if…
- You need a simple, good-enough site up this week because your first community event is happening soon
- You’re working solo or have limited tech-savvy volunteers
- Your organization is still finding its footing and just needs a “digital business card” online
Pros:
- Easiest to use—practically no learning curve (a blessing when you’re already learning 17 other new skills)
- Affordable pricing tiers that work with small nonprofit budgets
- Built-in hosting and security (one less thing to worry about)
- Decent templates, especially for events and newsletters
Cons:
- Limited design flexibility (can start looking a bit boxy and template-y)
- Only desktop and mobile view – no way to customize tablet view. (as of this writing)
- Difficult to migrate away from if your organization grows
- Not as strong for SEO or content-heavy sites
- Some features get locked behind higher-priced plans
Verdict:
Great for getting started fast when you just need something online, but you may outgrow it sooner than you think. I’ve seen many mission-driven leaders start here and then feel frustrated within a year.
Squarespace: Stylish and Streamlined
Why people love it:
Squarespace is known for its modern, elegant designs and relative ease of use. It’s a favorite for creatives and nonprofits who want something polished without diving into the deeper complexity of WordPress.
Great for you if…
- Visual storytelling is central to your work (think human rights, arts programs, or community-centered initiatives)
- You want a more design-forward site without the budget for a professional designer
- You’ll be the one updating the site regularly between all your other responsibilities
Pros:
- Beautiful templates right out of the box
- All-in-one solution: hosting, domain, security wrapped together
- Decent donation and event tools that integrate fairly well
- Robust blogging features and email newsletter tools that make it easier to share updates and maintain regular communication with your supporters
Cons:
- Can feel a bit “locked in” if you want to customize beyond their parameters (you will need to know some code for items like logo carousels)
- Slightly steeper learning curve than Wix (but still manageable)
- No true plugin ecosystem like WordPress
- Less ideal for complex features you might need later (member portals, advanced CRM integration, etc.)
Verdict:
Squarespace hits a sweet spot between beauty and simplicity—ideal for nonprofits in their first few years who want to look professional without hiring outside help. I’ve seen many campaigns and organizations thrive here.
WordPress: The Flexible Foundation I Recommend
Why people love it (and why I use it exclusively):
WordPress powers over 40% of the internet—and for good reason. It’s endlessly customizable and works beautifully for nonprofits at ANY stage of growth. This is what I use for my own site and what I recommend to nearly all my clients, from brand-new organizations to established nonprofits.
Great for you if…
- You want to build it right the FIRST time (no painful platform migrations later)
- You value flexibility and growth potential, even if you’re just starting out
- You’re looking for the most cost-effective solution long-term
Pros:
- Free to use (you just pay for hosting, typically $10-20/month)
- Thousands of themes and plugins to customize your site perfectly for your mission
- Ultimate flexibility and ownership (your site, your rules, forever)
- Best platform for SEO and content marketing to reach more supporters
- Seamlessly integrates with fundraising tools, CRMs, email platforms—everything nonprofits need
The “Cons” (that aren’t really cons with the right guide):
- Has a reputation for being complex — BUT with the right page builder and guidance, it’s actually quite intuitive (I promise!)
- You need to choose hosting — BUT I can recommend the perfect reliable, nonprofit-friendly options
- Many plugin options — BUT I’ve tested dozens to find the exact tech stack that works best for mission-driven organizations
- Requires some initial setup — BUT following a proven framework makes this straightforward (and sets you up for long-term success)
Verdict:
WordPress is hands-down the best platform for nonprofits who want to invest in their digital foundation from day one. While it may seem intimidating at first glance, with the right guidance, WordPress becomes just as accessible as other platforms—but with significantly more room to grow and adapt as your mission expands.
So, Which Platform Should You Really Choose?
After building dozens of websites for nonprofit organizations, here’s my honest recommendation:
Choose WordPress if:
- You want to build your foundation right the first time (no painful migrations later)
- You value flexibility, ownership, and long-term cost savings
Consider Squarespace if:
- You need something visually appealing in the next 48 hours
- You’re absolutely certain your needs will remain simple
- You understand you might need to migrate platforms within 1-2 years as you grow
Only choose Wix if:
- You need a very basic online presence immediately
- You have extremely limited time and budget right now
- You’re okay with rebuilding on a stronger platform later
Why I Recommend Starting with WordPress (Even for Beginners)
Here’s what I wish someone had told me years ago when I was stressing about website platforms for nonprofits: starting with WordPress saves you time, money, and frustration in the long run.
I’ve watched too many organizations build on Wix or Squarespace, only to hit frustrating limitations. Then they face a painful choice: stay limited or undertake a time-consuming migration.
The truth? WordPress only seems complicated because there are so many options. With the right guidance on exactly which builder, themes, and plugins to use, WordPress becomes just as intuitive as other platforms—but with room to grow as your organization does.
Have questions? Reach out for a free consult.
