TrueSense Blog

Audio Streaming: An Untapped Resource for Nonprofit Engagement

Written by Melanie Green | Feb 26, 2025 3:00:00 PM

Audio streaming platforms such as Spotify, Pandora, and others offer a significant opportunity for nonprofits to engage potential donors. Research shows that audio ads have a high recall rate, even when listeners are not fully focused. This makes audio streaming an excellent tool for guiding potential donors through the funnel, keeping the nonprofit’s story alive, and building emotional connections.  

What Is Programmatic Audio Streaming? 

Programmatic audio streaming is a digital advertising method of using technology to automate the purchase and placement of ads in audio content, such as radio programs, podcasts, and streaming music platforms — and it’s a very underused channel in the nonprofit world.

When we think of digital audio streaming platforms, Pandora and Spotify usually come to mind, but there are so many more out there than those two. Audio streaming includes services such as iHeart, SiriusXM, and TuneIn, as well as music platforms such as Amazon Music and Apple Music. It also includes podcasts and even smart speakers such as Amazon Echo, Bose, and Sonos.  

Audio Streaming Advertising Statistics 

For-profit companies have already realized the power of this advertising medium and have incorporated it into their marketing plans. Here are some key statistics to know: 

  • 75% of Americans older than 12 regularly listen to audio streaming. 
  • People spend an average of about 4.8 hours listening to audio content each day. 
  • Audio platform research has found that listeners have a five times greater recall rate — even when they’re not fully listening — compared to other forms of advertising. 
  • 64% of audio listeners are cord cutters who are otherwise challenging to reach through traditional media channels. 

By strategically using audio streaming, nonprofits can reach cord cutters and engage members of other audiences who might not be ready to donate immediately. 

Benefits of Programmatic Audio Streaming 

There are many benefits of programmatic audio streaming for donor messaging for nonprofits. 

Precise Targeting 

Programmatic audio advertising uses technology such as artificial intelligence (AI) to find and buy the best ad inventory for your nonprofit. It targets the right platforms, programs, and times when your target donor is most likely listening. This increases the likelihood of your message reaching the right audience. 

Real-Time Analytics 

With programmatic audio advertising, you can access real-time analytics about your campaigns, creatives, and results. You can use this information to make informed decisions about which campaigns drive the best results and what isn’t working. This helps your nonprofit make the most of limited marketing resources. 

Brand Awareness  

Audio advertising is an excellent tool for increasing brand awareness. Unlike static advertising, it’s possible to convey your nonprofit’s personality through audio advertising. Perhaps all video and audio messaging come from your nonprofit’s mascot, leader, or brand ambassador, and as a result, their voice becomes associated with your brand. It builds on a relationship, making it easier to connect with potential donors. 

Interactive Display Ads 

Interactive display banners on audio platforms can be incredibly effective when used in tandem with audio ads. As potential donors listen to your audio content, seeing an interactive display ad with a clear call to action on the streaming platform can further engage them and increase the likelihood they will follow through by visiting your website or donating. 

Audio streaming is just one of the newest media channels that offer a wide range of advertising opportunities to nonprofits. Learn more in our Quick Byte webinar How Forward-Thinking Nonprofits Maximize Today’s Newest Media Channels with Taryn Myers, Vice President of Digital Media for TrueSense Marketing; and Melqui Pires, our SEM Manager.