Successful Fundraising

I have been raising funds for nonprofit organizations for nearly ten years. Along the way I have read a long list of books on how to raise more cash and I have enjoyed my fair share of workshops, seminars, and even a few graduate courses on the fine art of soliciting funds. While I can appreciate the wisdom of those who have “raised” before me, I have observed a very simple concept along the way that I consider all my own- a concept known as Successful Fundraising. The concept recognizes three distinct characteristics of successful fundraising; a qualified prospect, an effective ask, and a worthy cause.

The qualified prospect is the individual or group that an organization intends to solicit for funds. The prospect might be an individual, a family foundation, a public institution, or a private corporation among others. The key to this characteristic is that the prospect is qualified. Qualification suggests that the prospect has an interest in the organization, an affinity for its mission, and the capacity to give.

The effective ask is the method in which the organization chooses to solicit its qualified prospect. The ask may be delivered letter in the mail, a telephone call, an email, or an in-person meeting. The choice of method ultimately determines the measure of effectiveness. An effective ask includes identifying all appropriate elements of an ask that will influence the prospects decision.

The worthy cause exists before a qualified prospect is identified and an effective ask is determined. The worthy cause is the nonprofit organizations vision and mission and most assuredly the individuals for whom the organization serves. It is important to understand that an organization with a clear vision and mission may have a variety of “causes” that resonate with its prospective donors.

If you are interested in receiving assistance in your organizations fundraising efforts, please contact me.

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