FAQ

How does KindSearch work?

KindSearch is a full-scale search engine just like Google, Bing or Yahoo, but with a different business model. Instead of spending on marketing we encourage nonprofits and other charitable organizations of all sizes to promote our product to their supporters. In return we share our advertising income with them. KindSearch makes supporting causes super easy - just search and we automatically donate to the eligible organization of your choice.

How good are the search results?

Our search partner is Microsoft Bing and their search results are top of the line. In fact, most people in our user experience study group thought they were using Google based on the flawless search results. Our advice is to try it out yourself! We are constantly adding new features to improve the overall experience.

How do I choose which organization to support?

Simple. Click on the “select a charity” button in the upper right corner on our site and choose the organization that aligns best with your interests.

So, is KindSearch like Amazon Smile?

Well, some of our partners still call us "the Amazon Smile of Search'' and in many ways we are similar. However, with KindSearch you don't have to spend money to donate money. Like Amazon Smile, we allow nonprofits to sign up on the platform and invite their supporters to use our product. Amazon donates a fixed % of all eligible sales whereas we share the advertising revenue made from the search engine, but the idea is the same - help nonprofits make money by marketing us to their supporters.

How does KindSearch generate income?

Search engines generate income from clicks on ad-links from advertising partners. It's the same for us. KindSearch typically earns a few cents for every click on an advertisement – or a fixed portion of the purchase price made through an affiliate link. So, what’s the difference? We are a Social Enterprise and donate the majority of our ad income directly to the charitable organization of your choice - kinda nice, right?

How can I trust that the money actually goes to these charities/nonprofits?

Regardless of expenses, KindSearch commits to donating 70% of its NET advertising income. The good news is that you don't have to rely on our word. KindSearch.org is operated by Raited Ltd, a company registered in Finland. The company is annually audited and all company filings are by law public in Finland.

In what countries does KindSearch work?

Full functionality of the search engine is supported in the US, Canada, Australia, UK, Germany, France and Spain. A somewhat limited version (no image or news search) can already be accessed also in other countries. We are working on having the full functionality available in more countries in the near future.

How can a nonprofit (not yet listed) work with KindSearch?

We have a partner program for nonprofits. The process starts with getting your organization approved. In order to qualify, you need to be a government registered "charitable organization". Please have an official representative of the organization fill out our information form here: Apply Now

If you have any questions, you can email us or chat with us on Telegram or WhatsApp

How to register a nonprofit organization to KindSearch?

Registering an organization is easy. In order to register and receive donations, you must be an official representative of an eligible organization, and follow these easy steps:

1. Go to our partner application form.
2. Fill out the form as diligently as possible.
3. Verify your email address and phone number (we recommend that you use an email address that is associated with your charitable organization).
4. Once your application form has been submitted, the approval process typically takes 5-7 days.

What happens after a nonprofit organization is approved?

Once you are approved and have your logo added to our cause selector it's time to let your supporters know about KindSearch. Utilizing email newsletters, social media or promoting during events are all great ways to activate your followers into KindSearch supporters that start earning donations for your organization! If you need help with ideas on how to promote please hit us up, we are happy to help!

Can you mail the donation check instead of paying us on our bank account or via PayPal?

We do not mail donation checks due to the expense of check processing and fulfillment but PayPal works!

Will clicking on ads generate more money for the organization I support?

In theory yes, but no. The security algorithm will definitely identify constant ad clicking or other abnormal search engine usage and will deduct any revenues from such usage.

How can I support or get involved with KindSearch?

The whole project has so far been possible thanks to amazing people donating their time and resources. We are all currently working as volunteers and certainly appreciate all the help we can get. We are always looking for more content for social media, help with spreading the word and really anything and everything :) Please reach out to antti@kindsearch.org and let's talk more!