Glossary
Compliance & Governance

GDPR Consent

By: Alec Hollingsworth
Updated:  
July 16, 2025

Definition:

GDPR Consent is the explicit and informed permission required from individuals before collecting or processing their personal data under EU law.
GDPR Consent refers to the explicit, informed, and unambiguous permission required from individuals in the European Union (EU) before collecting, processing, or storing their personal data. Under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), organizations must ensure that consent is freely given, specific, and documented. Consent requests must be presented in clear, plain language and must be separate from other terms and conditions. Individuals have the right to withdraw their consent at any time, and organizations must make it easy for them to do so. GDPR Consent aims to protect individuals' privacy rights and places significant responsibility on organizations to manage personal data transparently and securely.

Key Takeaways

  • GDPR Consent must be explicit, informed, and specific.
  • Individuals can withdraw consent at any time.
  • Clear records of consent are required for compliance.
  • Nonprofits must use plain language in consent requests.

Why It Matters

GDPR Consent is essential for legal compliance and building trust with donors and supporters.

Real World Example

Imagine a nonprofit based in Canada that runs digital campaigns in the EU. Before adding EU-based individuals to their email list, the nonprofit uses Keela’s customizable sign-up form, which includes a clear consent checkbox and an explanation of how their data will be used. The nonprofit stores this consent record within Keela, making it easy to prove compliance if audited. Later, if a supporter requests to withdraw their consent, the nonprofit quickly locates their record in Keela and removes them from future communications, ensuring full GDPR compliance and maintaining the trust of supporters.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is GDPR Consent?

GDPR Consent is explicit permission required from EU individuals before collecting or processing their personal data, as mandated by the General Data Protection Regulation.

Why is GDPR Consent important for nonprofits?

Obtaining GDPR Consent ensures legal compliance, protects supporter privacy, and builds trust with donors and volunteers in the EU.

How does Keela help manage GDPR Consent?

Keela provides customizable forms and consent tracking, making it easy to record, manage, and demonstrate GDPR Consent for your contacts.

Can individuals withdraw their GDPR Consent?

Yes, individuals have the right to withdraw their consent at any time, and organizations must make this process straightforward.

What happens if my nonprofit doesn't collect proper GDPR Consent?

Failure to obtain proper consent can result in hefty fines and damage your organization's reputation and supporter trust.

Related Terms

Accessibility Compliance
Automation Trigger in a Nonprofit CRM
Average Gift Size
Board Member Profile
Bounce Rate
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