A good fundraising strategy is about more than simply raising awareness for your nonprofit’s cause and asking supporters to get involved. Much like a game of chess, creating an effective plan for your funding endeavors is all about thinking a few steps ahead. All nonprofit leaders know that countless hours of work occur before any capital campaign can begin. Once the proper framework has been set, an organization will be much more likely to reach their fundraising goals. But, are there ways to maximize the time spent on a fundraiser’s generation phase? Focus on a few of the following areas when creating your nonprofit’s fundraising strategy to save time and maximize the results of your efforts.
Outline A Schedule
Creating a successful fundraiser for your nonprofit organization takes time. To ensure a proper timeline for planning and strategy implementation, nonprofits should map out a schedule of fundraising ideas and events that stretches at least six months into the future. In doing so, your organization will allow a sufficient time lead for publicizing and preparing for each event.
Timing Is Everything
It is no secret that there are multiple times throughout the year that are more lucrative for fundraisers. According to LAPA, there are three critical times of year for fundraisers to take into account: November through December, which are the most lucrative months; January through June, being the second most lucrative time of year; and July and August. which is the time least likely to result in a successful fundraiser. Plan your campaigns accordingly to take advantage of the giving mindsets of your donors and your fundraiser will be well on its way to success.
Keep It Local
Whether your nonprofit is focused on the surrounding community or focused on international needs, it may be necessary to incorporate grassroots fundraising efforts into a larger giving strategy. Take the time to reach out to local businesses and organizations for support to expand your nonprofit’s reach and awareness of your cause. To further expand reach, consider the connections your nonprofit has on social media. Leveraging the engaged users you already have and inviting them to give online through your website may be another method to increase the efficacy of your fundraising endeavor.
Don’t Discount Volunteers
Though many fundraisers are meant to garner financial support, it’s important to recognize the contributions that are not monetary. Volunteers that actively get involved with your organization are more like to continue their relationship with your nonprofit in the future. Further, utilizing your volunteer force to complete necessary tasks involved with your fundraiser frees up donation funds to directly influence your cause, rather than offsetting organizational costs. Plan on attracting, and making use of, volunteers to help your fundraiser on its way to success.
Strategically planning fundraising initiatives is essential for your nonprofit. Not only will proper planning help to strengthen individual campaigns, but it will also create the momentum your organization needs to continue to hold successful fundraisers in the future. Consider incorporating the above pieces into your nonprofit’s fundraising strategy to help your organization maintain financial stability.
