How a feasibility study can determine whether or not to invest in a fundraising program
Recently, I have received several inquiries from organizations who, for the first time, are seeking to start fundraising efforts. Many have subsisted on federal and state funds, finding ways to "cover" the expenses that the federal and state…
Making a case for your state-funded organization's fundraising
When meeting with new clients, I often hear this exact same question, "But, our organization receives state and federal funds...how can we realistically make the case for our fundraising?" And, my answer is, "Even more so you can! It…
How to reduce the frantic pace in your nonprofit fundraising workday
Just recently, I noticed as I was driving around that everyone seems to be frantic. Or, is it more frenetic? Folks weaving in and out, road rage, and overall cortisol on overload. In comparison, I just spent three months in Australia. And,…
The top six tips to avoid the "Hope and Pray" method of calendar-year end campaign planning
Often, I work with clients who don't adequately plan for their calendar year-end efforts. This lack of planning does a disservice to the organization for a couple of important reasons. One such reason is that calendar year-end efforts and…
What one thing can make or break the success of YOUR organization?
The Board. It can make or break your organization. If assembled and organized correctly, it can chart a successful future that prospers and preserves inspiration and creativity of its members and benefactors alike. If not, well...insert…
The key indicators of a strong nonprofit fundraising campaign
I often get asked, "What are the key indicators of a strong nonprofit fundraising campaign?" In order to have a strong fundraising campaign of any sort, whether it be capital, endowment, or even annual, you need several hallmarks of success…
Raising more money from your current loyal donors through repeat and best-ever gifts
What happens when you don't invest in donor acquisition? Well, your organization will face a declining donor base with the need to raise more money from fewer donors. With about 10% of donor bases naturally declining each year, the focus…
Hosting Your First Fundraising Cultivation Event
Donor cultivation events should be an important part of your fundraising program. Whether you are a small or large non-profit, or if you are raising money for annual operations for capital campaigns, you need to incorporate them as a vital…
How to keep your small shop fundraising focus on your major donor work
After having served most of my career as a Director of Development in a small organization, I understand the realities of trying to handle all of the major tasks and responsibilities that come up daily; plus the fires that seem to endlessly…
We're growing our interim fundraising division to help YOU reach your possibility.
Let me share a story with you... A few years back when I first started consulting, I provided organizations like yourself with strategic fund development audits and assessments and then crafted finely honed plans. What I thought were roadmaps…
How to get your fundraising "Mojo" back through finding your ideal development position
Not satisfied with where you are currently in your field? Feeling like you have lost your "Mojo?" I know the feeling, I have "been there done that" as they say. What often happens next, is that we begin to apply for job after job with…
How to create a manual that ensures your database stays clean and up to date
Now that December is here, I have been running many lists and queries and during those list pulls, I have noted inconsistent data in databases that have caused numerous complications during one of the busiest times of the year. As a result,…
