Convio launches open API platform: Convio Open

October 16th, 2007 at 09:21am

Following close on Kintera’s open platform release a few days ago, Convio has launched its own ‘open’ service: Convio Open, which will allow a wide range of partners to connect their own specialized services into Convio’s web-based membership and advocacy system. Using Convio’s open API, software developers will be able to build bridges that connect their programs directly into Convio’s system, allowing their custom extensions to be integrated into the Convio system, and for data to be exchanged directly (i.e. record updates, etc.).

From Convio’s announcement:

Through our Convio Open initiative, we are helping nonprofits tap into the power of the new Web with tools to leverage social networking sites, online calendars, photo sharing, viral video, and mapping mashups. To provide a more compelling constituent experience, we offer tools for rich Web applications and integration options to more effectively manage constituent data.

As part of the launch, Convio is also announcing a list of several dozen strategic and associate partners who are already developing Convio Open custom extensions.

> Learn more about Convio Open

> Visit the Convio Open developers resource center

Kintera launches open platform, applications now available

October 12th, 2007 at 12:08pm

Kintera took the wrappings off it’s anticipated Kintera Connect open application platform today, announcing a range of industry partners who have participated in the development of the first wave of 3rd party integrated tools for the Kintera Sphere platform. The roster includes application partners offering plug-in tools such as CRM, call center, data/analytics, fundraising and mobile/social networking tools.

From Kintera’s email announcement:

Nonprofit technology will never be the same. For the first time, nonprofits have the freedom to choose and the power to innovate in a way that only an open platform can provide. … Clients can choose from a variety of best-of-breed solutions from the extensive Kintera Connect Partner Network, enabling them to leverage new technologies that easily extend and integrate with Kintera Sphere.

> Read press release

> Visit Kintera Connect

YouTube launches nonprofit program

October 2nd, 2007 at 12:25am

Another step taken by Google into the nonprofit world by launching a program allowing nonprofits to sign up for their own YouTube channel and host their own videos, public service announcements. calls to action and more. Additionally, the channels will allow non-profits to use Google Checkout to collect donations without being charged any fees.

From the press release:

YouTube Nonprofit Program participants will receive:

• A premium channel on YouTube that serves as a nonprofit’s hub for their uploaded videos. Through the channel, people can connect with a nonprofit via messages, subscriptions, comments and more. Nonprofits will also receive enhanced channel branding features and increased upload capacity.

• Designation as a “Nonprofit” on YouTube that clearly identifies organizations as a nonprofit for YouTube community.

• The ability to embed a Google Checkout donation button on their channel and video watch pages, allowing people to quickly and securely make a contribution directly from YouTube. Starting today, nonprofits who offer Google Checkout for Non-Profits as a donation option — whether through YouTube or on their own sites — will receive 100 percent of donated funds, as Google has committed to processing all donations for free through at least the end of 2008.

• In the coming months, nonprofit channels will have a centralized area on YouTube, making them and their videos more easily discoverable.

> Find out more here