FAQs about Bitcoin donations
How many people in this country actually own Bitcoin?
In Germany, around 8% of the population holds cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, with Generation Z being significantly more invested at 22%. The average crypto portfolio held €57,200, and realized gains for 2024 were calculated at €47.3 billion. (Source: Crypto Tax Study Germany 2025, Blockpit) In Austria, around 13% own cryptocurrencies. 82% of the population is familiar with Bitcoin, and 43% can imagine investing in it in the future. The willingness to invest is highest among men at 53% and Generation Z at 62%. (Source: Marketagent Study, August 2025) In general, it should be noted that we are currently in the early adopter phase with Bitcoin. In short, we are in the early adopter phase.
What does an organization need to become institutionally ready to accept Bitcoin donations?
Basic knowledge of Bitcoin among the workforce and a commitment from management are essential. It is advisable to establish a task force and develop an internal Bitcoin policy. This policy should outline guidelines for handling Bitcoin donations.
Who are the target groups of a Bitcoin fundraising campaign?
Large donors from the group of OGs (“Original Gangsters” = early investors) and small donors in the Bitcoin community.
How do you reach the Bitcoin community?
It is beneficial to be present at events such as Bitcoin conferences and meet-ups, and in digital networks like Nostr. It is important that the organization understands Bitcoin, knows the jargon, and promotes projects that are interesting to Bitcoiners.
Is the effort involved in accepting Bitcoin donations proportionate to the return?
Time and resources are required from staff and consultants to prepare the organization institutionally and set up the technical infrastructure. However, given the increasing adoption and value of Bitcoin, it is highly likely that the initial investments will pay off.
Doesn't accepting Bitcoin donations scare away traditional donors?
No. Bitcoin is now a legitimate and regulated asset in most countries, and its adoption in the financial market is progressing steadily. Accordingly, media coverage has also normalized. Common criticisms, such as the use of Bitcoin for criminal purposes or the high energy consumption of mining, can now be effectively addressed and refuted with data and facts.
How safe are Bitcoin donations?
Bitcoin is based on blockchain technology, which is considered extremely secure. It is essential that non-profit organizations store their Bitcoin assets professionally and diligently (e.g., using hardware wallets and multiple signatures).
Can donations be made anonymously in Bitcoin?
Yes, Bitcoin allows for anonymous donations. When sending a transaction, no names, email addresses, or personal data are transmitted. Many organizations offer the option to voluntarily provide contact information in order to receive a donation receipt.
Is a Bitcoin donation tax-deductible in Austria?
No. Donations in Bitcoin are considered donations in kind in Austria and are therefore not tax deductible.
Is a Bitcoin donation tax-deductible in Germany?
Yes. However, the donor's details must be disclosed. The donated Bitcoins must have been held for at least one year; otherwise, capital gains tax will apply.
Are there many organizations that accept Bitcoin donations?
In Austria, Germany, and Switzerland, several non-profit organizations offer the option of donating in Bitcoin, including some large and well-known ones. Overall, however, Bitcoin fundraising remains a niche topic in the DACH region (Germany, Austria, and Switzerland), unlike in the United States. If you decide to implement Bitcoin donations in your organization, you are currently among the pioneers in Germany and Austria.
How else can NPOs benefit from Bitcoin?
Bitcoin is used as a store of value ("digital gold") and as a bank-independent global means of payment, with virtually no transaction fees. In the future, it could also be attractive for non-profit organizations to hold a portion of their reserves in Bitcoin, take out loans against Bitcoin, and make international payments in Bitcoin.