Did you know that charitable giving increased by more than 5 percent last year and remains strong? The bad news is that philanthropic organizations have become more discerning in what causes they support. This means fundraising has become more competitive.
If there were a universally agreed-upon formula for fundraising success, there would be no debate about what works and what doesn’t. Strategies are often based on the personal perspectives of board members or staff, which can be diverse and lack focus.
Fortunately, there are a few things your organization can do that can help point you in the right direction. The information below lays out four keys to fundraising success. Keep reading to find out what strategies your organization can use to get on the right track.
1. Get On the Same Page
Everyone involved in the process should have the same general outlook on what successful fundraising looks like. That includes leadership, staff, and board of directors.
That does not mean everyone has to agree on every detail on how to get there. But, if you are divided about the mission and objectives, fundraising success will be difficult to achieve. Having a unified outlook will create a culture of teamwork that is imperative for moving forward.
Also, once you have decided on a fundraising philosophy, make sure you articulate that to your membership. While peer-to-peer fundraising is an individual endeavor, a unified message to the community can be very impactful.
2. Focus On Sustainability
In terms of execution, it is important to focus on the short term. But a successful fundraising campaign will have bigger, long-term goals in mind.
Even for single, annual events, success one year does not always translate to the same achievements next year. Each fundraising component should fit into a philanthropic strategy that corresponds with the organization’s long-range aspirations.
3. Diversify Fundraising Opportunities
One of the biggest mistakes organizations makes is focusing on one type of fundraising. Events can be effective but also time-consuming and costly. Donations offer a better return on your efforts but can be difficult to secure and retain. Besides the potential to raise more money, diversifying fundraising streams creates security.
Also, always be on the lookout for new fundraising opportunities. Think outside the box, and change things up that are not working.
Use campaigns that intrigue people, like the challenge coin for a social cause. These can promote camaraderie and brand loyalty. Anything new and unique has the potential to bring in new donors and participants.
4. Utilize Technology
If you are not using technology to fundraise, start. And, if you are, be sure you are staying up to speed on all the tools available.
Besides the myriad social media channels you can leverage to advertise events and solicit donations, there are many different platforms to explore. These make it easier for people to give and include options like monthly giving. Explore which ones best suit your organization’s unique fundraising needs.
Achieve Fundraising Success
Now that you know how to be successful at fundraising, you can get to work. Be sure your team is on the same page and always be on the lookout for new opportunities. Employing the successful fundraising ideas above will ensure financial stability for your organization for years to come.
We hope you found this information on fundraising success useful. If so, be sure to check out some of our other posts on health, fitness, lifestyle, and many other topics.
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