Since 2001, Wikipedia has made it into the DNA of all our online searches. While the website has been listed as ‘not credible’ for extracting content, we still rely on it for basic understanding and articulate data. While the organization makes millions, why is Wikipedia asking us for donations?
2020 witnessed the non-profit organization asking for generous donations but this time with an ’emotional post’ for knowledge lovers residing in India.
WHAT IS THIS EMOTIONAL POST?
The post further reads, “We know most people will ignore this message. But our hope is that you’ll think about how valuable it is to have access to a source of open knowledge that doesn’t charge you anything, doesn’t sell you anything, and would never show you ads. If Wikipedia provided you ₹ 150 worth of knowledge this year, please take a minute to help keep it growing. Thank you!”
See here.
WHY IS WIKIPEDIA ASKING US FOR DONATIONS?
Wikipedia is hosted by a not-for-profit organization.
A website usually generates revenue via advertisements for other companies. However, Wikipedia doesn’t feature any ads. Another ripple effect of revenue generation shares. But Wikipedia doesn’t even have shareholders. Subsequently, the website relies solely on donors and their donations.
In its 2015 blog, Wikimedia Foundation (WMF) had clarified that the donation helps the organization to pay salaries of all its staff members. In addition, the fund also helps to keep Wikipedia and its sister sites secure, fast, and easily accessible.
IS THIS THE FIRST TIME THAT WIKIPEDIA IS ASKING US FOR DONATIONS?
No! This is not the first time that organization has sought support from its readers. In fact, not just in India, it is a common practice for the WMF to announce fundraisers for the smooth running of Wikipedia, the world’s seventh-largest site with the respectable aim to provide free knowledge to anyone and everyone.
