Many organizations are faced with the challenge of accepting credit cards at their fundraising event because of the expense of the cost of set up and credit card machine equipment. Some organizations invest several thousands of dollars for a credit card payment equipment which may become obsolete before seeing a return on the investment; others choose not to accept credit cards at all. When an organization does not accept credit cards, fundraising never can reach its full potential for donations.

One unique and innovative solution, developed by Go Mobile Commerce, allows one to rent a wireless credit card machine for short term use. The wireless terminal arrives at an organization’s event ready to go, out of the box, and a return shipping label is even included to make returning it a breeze. Go Mobile’s system is turn-key, in that they will preprogram the machine to an organization’s current merchant service provider; you can choose the provider of your choice. They provide 24/7 technical support, an online payment gateway (for reconciliation of transactions), the equipment, and wireless service in an all in one price with no gimmicks or hidden fees.

The benefit of using wireless is that no external phone line or Ethernet connection is required. Setting this up on its own accord can be a hassle and expensive to find at an off-site event or tradeshow. Convention centers charge upwards of $300.00 per week to rent a phone line at an exhibitor’s booth. Exhibitors then must bring a credit card machine with them, whereas Go Mobile’s solution will ship directly to your event or hotel.

There are new payment solutions for smart phones, including credit card readers that connect to a cell phone via the audio jack outlet or Blue Tooth. For fundraising events where numerous volunteers are accepting payments for donations, using the volunteers’ own smart phone to accept credit card donations may result in an apprehensive donor.

Purchasing a wireless credit card machine may be a good solution if an organization is using it on a continual basis and over an extended timeframe. For those using it for only once a year, renting through Go Mobile may be an ideal solution. Purchasing equipment for once a year event can be expensive with reactivation fees and the equipment may become obsolete before the cost of the investment is seen.

After considering the solutions available for the short term use, I would recommend the short term wireless rental solution from Go Mobile Commerce. They have been in business for over three years, which is considered well established in the field of wireless payments. Their solution is innovative, turn-key, including activation and roundtrip shipping. The price point is cost effective, simple and their service, exceptional and available 24/7. Go Mobile’s client base includes Fortune 500 companies such as Porsche Cars, Lee Jeans, Shell Oil as well as numerous small businesses, such as firework stands and Octoberfests. Go Mobile’s website praises one of being the first to provide a short term wireless solution in the nation and boast they house one of the largest inventories for short term rental use and are a debt-free company.