As corporate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs have come under attack, some nonprofits have retreated, leaving new employees and executives unsupported and in need. Now is the time to train, equip, and empower people of color to become better fundraisers and nonprofit leaders.
Learn the five key strategies to make “the ask” more effective, from knowing your audience to the art of the pledge. Don’t miss out on these invaluable tips to boost your fundraising efforts!
Make no mistake about it, 2024 is going to be a tough year for nonprofits. Inflation continues to soar, and the stock market is going to remain flat at best. Donors with capacity will give, but it is going to be very intentional.
Before a donor increases giving to the 5-figure level they usually want to meet with someone. It is about stewardship. Most people who make transformational gifts want to meet to ensure that every dollar they invest in your organization has a real impact.
Every day your organization goes without an unfilled fulltime fund development position you are losing money.
Beware of the major gift guru who says he has the secret black book with the list of his major donor friends who will fund your charity.
“For clinking money, you can shake the can. For folding money, you should go ask for it. “
Most nonprofits, like Sweet Briar, do not consider the fact that capital campaigns can hurt your annual fund and general operating budget, especially if annual fund donors are being targeted for a large percentage of the capital gifts. With nearly $200 million raised in Sweet Briar’s case, they learned the hard way that capital campaign donors will rarely give “twice” or release “restrictions” to pay for overhead and operations.
Bottom line, there is a cost to acquire a new donor and, as importantly every new donor has lifetime donor value to the charity. Charities must be willing to invest in growth.
Overlaying RFM with events at the charity is key. If you had a choice to mail an appeal to a donor who gave six months ago versus a donor who gave a year ago, but who had just volunteered, went on your website and just attended the fundraising banquet. Who would you pick?
