Case Study: Leveraging Video Ads to Lower Costs and Boost Engagement

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212% INCREASE

in CLICK rate

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54% reduction

in Cost-per-click

Objective:

At Brad Cecil & Associates, we continuously refine strategies to help nonprofits achieve greater efficiency and impact. This case study highlights how replacing a static image with a dynamic video in a Facebook ad for a Holiday Match campaign significantly reduced cost-per-click (CPC) and drove meaningful engagement.

Challenge:

Static image ads are reliable but can struggle to stand out in a fast-paced social media environment. Video, by contrast, has the potential to stop scrolling in its tracks. Recognizing this, we hypothesized that replacing a static image with a video could boost engagement, lower CPC, and ultimately drive more donations for the Holiday Match campaign.

BCA Approach:

We developed a strategic test to evaluate the effectiveness of video compared to static imagery:

  • Control (Static Image): Featured a high-quality image paired with concise, compelling text emphasizing the Holiday Match opportunity.
  • Treatment (Video): Used a dynamic video with the same core messaging, designed to evoke emotion and draw viewers into the campaign’s narrative.

This test wasn’t just about format; it was a carefully crafted alignment of visuals, messaging, and audience targeting to maximize the ad’s impact.

Control:

Into_Video-Control

Treatment:

Into_Video-Treatment

Results:

The video ad significantly outperformed the static image:

  • 212% Increase in Click Rate: Video content captured attention more effectively, driving a substantial increase in engagement.
  • 54% Reduction in CPC: The treatment ad demonstrated superior cost efficiency, cutting CPC by more than half.

These results highlight the power of video to engage audiences and optimize budgets without compromising the message’s impact.

Key Insights:

  1. Video Enhances Emotional Impact: Combining visuals, movement, and sound, video captures attention and connects emotionally in ways static images cannot. This is especially important in campaigns designed to inspire action.
  2. Cost Efficiency Through Engagement: Video’s ability to engage viewers more effectively translated directly into reduced CPC, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious campaigns.
  3. Strategic Alignment is Essential: The success of the video ad wasn’t just in its format—it was how seamlessly the content aligned with the donation page and overall campaign messaging, ensuring a consistent and compelling donor journey.

Why This Matters:

This case demonstrates how thoughtful innovation in ad strategy can amplify engagement and improve efficiency. For nonprofits navigating tight budgets, video represents a powerful opportunity to elevate campaign performance without increasing costs.

The BCA Difference:

At BCA, we combine data-driven strategies with creative execution to deliver measurable results. Our team doesn’t just implement campaigns; we tailor every element to align with your mission and drive meaningful outcomes.

Here’s how we can support your organization:

  • Strategic Innovation: Leveraging new formats and approaches to stay ahead in a competitive fundraising landscape.
  • Insight-Driven Optimization: Using testing and analysis to ensure every campaign element performs at its best.
  • Sustained Results: Building campaigns that deliver immediate wins while fostering long-term success.

What’s Next for Your Campaigns?

This case shows how a simple shift—like incorporating video—can transform campaign performance. Whether you’re looking to integrate video into your strategy or explore other opportunities, BCA is ready to guide you toward measurable growth.

Let’s create your next breakthrough campaign — contact Brad Cecil & Associates today.