Fundraising Strategy

Developing a successful fundraising strategy allows your organization the opportunity to cover operating expenses, complete projects and programs, and create a small cushion for the future. Many organizations find that the success of the fundraising may be attributed to the following principles:

• Think Positively: As you begin your planning for the year, think big — dream a little! Ask yourself, "If money were not an issue, what would the group do?" Feel free to use your imagination. Generally it is easier to scale down your organization's plans than to scale up mid-year. After you have identified ideal activities for the year, you should begin to assess the feasibility of your goals in light of your resources. Although you have to look at these realistically, be positive — do not permit a lack of available funds to stifle your plans.
• Establish Financial Goals: If you do not know where you are going, you will never know if you have arrived! When you are planning your organization's budget, your budget of proposed expenses must be developed and reviewed against existing resources. The difference between your total budget and operating expenses will be your organizations' fundraising target. Now is the time to be creative, yet realistic!
• Develop Creative Fundraising Alternatives: Once you have established a financial target, identify all potential sources of funds and develop creative ways to tap your resources. Successful organizations utilize multiple approaches to fundraising.
• Establish Your Fundraising Plan: Fundraising can't be successful if left to chance. Answer the basic questions: Who? What? Where? When? Why?
• Evaluate Fundraising Activities: In order to determine your level of success, maximize learning opportunities and advise future leaders of your organization. It is imperative that you evaluate your fundraising activities. This evaluation should include a qualitative analysis and conclude with recommendations for future fundraising activities.

Once a financial plan is developed, write it down and commit the team to action!

Fundraising Websites

• American Publishers Fundraising Tips!

Fundraising Ideas