Do We Need a Retainer or a Project?

For many advocacy-driven nonprofits, working with a digital agency starts with a clear goal in mind: launch a new website, refresh branding, add a new feature. These are all project-based efforts—finite, scoped, and scheduled.

But what happens after launch?

If your site is a critical tool for engagement, fundraising, and rapid response, you may need something more ongoing. That’s where retainers come in.

Let’s explore the difference—so you can choose what fits best.

What is a project-based engagement?

A project is a one-time collaboration. It typically includes:

• A defined beginning and end
• A clear list of deliverables
• Milestones, timelines, and launch goals

Think: new website, campaign landing page, brand refresh, donation form overhaul.

Projects are ideal when:

• You know exactly what you need
• Your internal team can take over after launch
• You have budget set aside for a specific deliverable

The relationship tends to pause after the work is done—until the next need arises.

What is a retainer?

A retainer is an ongoing relationship. You set aside a monthly budget, and the agency provides support, strategy, and development time as needed.

Retainers are great for:

• Rapid response campaign updates
• Ongoing accessibility improvements
• Content updates and publishing
• Analytics reviews and reporting
• Feature enhancements and support requests

The key benefit? You don’t have to start from scratch each time. The agency already understands your systems, tone, and mission.

At Loopdash, we treat retainers as true partnerships. You get a dedicated strategist, flexible development hours, and faster turnaround—all with fewer emails.

So, which one is right for you?

It depends on your stage, team capacity, and long-term goals.

Choose a project if:

• You’re starting fresh or doing something one-time
• You have an internal team to maintain the site afterward
• You prefer a fixed cost, timeline, and scope

Choose a retainer if:

• You need ongoing design, tech, or strategy help
• You want faster turnaround without repeated onboarding
• You view your website as a living platform, not a finished product

Some nonprofits start with a project and move into a retainer later. Others begin with a monthly agreement to maintain and evolve their digital presence over time.

Final Thoughts

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach. The best setup is the one that gives your team the support you need—when you need it.

If you're unsure, ask yourself: What happens after launch? If the answer feels fuzzy, a retainer might be worth exploring.

We’re always happy to talk through options and help you find the right fit—whether that’s with us or someone else.

Let’s build something that lasts.