Choosing a web developer isn’t just about hiring someone to build your site—it’s about finding a partner who will bring your vision to life and make the process smooth and enjoyable. Since a website is a big investment, you want to ensure you’re working with someone who gets your charity, communicates well, and makes the journey feel exciting rather than overwhelming.
Here are some essential steps to help you find the perfect developer for your charity.

1. Start by Understanding Your Needs
Before searching for a developer, define what you need from your website. Consider:
Features: Do you need donation buttons, event registration, or newsletters?
Style: Should the design be modern and minimalist, or bold and vibrant?
Budget: What can you realistically afford, and who needs to approve it?
Support: Do you need ongoing maintenance or a one-off project?
Being clear on these details will help you focus your search and find a developer who aligns with your goals.
2. Look for Charity-Specific Experience
Charities are a unique breed—they have a special focus on fundraising, awareness, and building communities. You’ll want a developer who understands these needs. Look for developers who have experience working with non-profits or charities. This ensures they know how to create websites that engage supporters, drive donations, and promote your cause effectively. It's not just understanding how a charity website functions, it's also understanding how a charity and your team opporates as an organisation.
If a developer has worked with other charities before, they’ll understand the need for easy-to-use donation systems, event management, and informative content.
3. Review Their Portfolio and Testimonials
A web developer’s past work is one of the best indicators of what they can deliver for you. Look at their portfolio to see if their style aligns with your vision. Have they worked with charities before? Do their designs reflect empathy and an understanding of different audiences?
Additionally, read testimonials or reviews from their previous clients. Did they deliver on time? Were they easy to work with? These insights can save you from potential headaches down the line.
Get to Know them on a Discovery Call
Once you’ve shortlisted potential developers, schedule discovery calls to get to know them better. This is your chance to:
Share your vision and bounce ideas.
Ask about their process, experience, and approach to challenges.
See if their personality and values align with yours.
Pro Tip: Ensure this call is with the person (or team) who will actually build your site—not a salesperson. This way, you’ll have a clear understanding of who you’ll be working with and their level of expertise.
5. Ask About Their Process
Every developer has a unique way of working, and it’s important to know what to expect. Ask about their timeline, how they communicate updates, and whether they’ll provide training or support once the site is live. A clear process can help you feel more at ease, especially if this is your first time commissioning a website.
6. Compare Proposals Before Committing
Don’t settle for the first developer you come across. Ask your shortlisted developers for detailed proposals, including timelines, features, and costs.
If your charity has a finance committee or trustees, these proposals can help you get the necessary approvals and make an informed decision.
Look for transparency in pricing. A good proposal will outline all costs upfront, including hosting, domain registration, and any additional services like maintenance or training.
Don’t Settle for the First Developer You Find
It can be tempting to say “yes” to the first promising person you come across, but take the time to explore your options. Ask your shortlisted developers to provide a proposal with a detailed quote. This will give you something concrete to compare and discuss with your team or trustees.
If your charity has a finance committee or needs trustees to sign off, having these proposals on hand makes it easier to get the necessary approvals.
Ensure Transparency in Pricing
A good developer will provide a clear, detailed quote that outlines exactly what’s included and what’s not. Be wary of vague pricing—unexpected costs can quickly add up. Look for someone who’s upfront about fees like hosting, domain registration, or additional support services.
Prioritise Compatibility
Skills and experience are important, but so is finding someone you genuinely click with. Building a website is a collaborative process, and you want to work with someone who listens, communicates clearly, and makes you feel confident in your choices.
I believe that building your website should feel exciting and empowering—not overwhelming. My goal is to make the process enjoyable while delivering a website you’ll love.
The Bottom Line
Choosing the right web developer isn’t just about finding someone who can code—it’s about building a partnership with someone who shares your passion for your cause and makes your vision a reality.
Take your time, ask the right questions, and trust your instincts. When you find the right fit, creating your website can be as rewarding as the final product itself.
Why Not Start Here?
Choosing the right web developer can feel like a big step, but why not start with me? Book a discovery call to chat about your charity, your vision, and how I work. I'll walk you through my process and send you a detailed proposal so you’ll know exactly what to expect.
With years of experience designing and developing websites for charities, I understand the unique needs of organisations like yours. Take a look at my portfolio to see some of the amazing projects I’ve worked on.
Let’s create something brilliant together!