Prospects

Each community can believe in a nonprofit for a different reason. Nevertheless, it’s the specific, on-the-ground rationale that energizes support from each of the affected communities and constituencies. The difficulty arises when those driving the cause continue to proclaim the global goals without reference to the local goals...

Summer’s over and the busiest fundraising season of the year is right around the corner. Are you ready? To help you get a jumpstart on your campaign planning, we’ve put together a checklist of things you can do now to ensure a blockbuster end-of-year fundraising appeal. 1) Start with the big picture. What are your…

The best campaigns are designed with this concept in mind. They are implemented from an overall framework, from the pre-study phase to the study to any post study fine-tuning to the quiet phase—moving through the sequential phases until you joyfully announce the campaign and celebrate success. Sometimes we encounter a client—or potential client—who has an understanding of these best practices, but would like to make an exception. Now don’t get me wrong, every campaign is unique and you have to fine-tune your strategy—and be flexible. But be sure to always keep the big picture in mind.

Be sure that before you ask for the first gift that you are prepared. Have everything in place to drive the campaign to completion in an appropriate timeframe. Timing is everything. Momentum is vital. A campaign that languishes does nothing to build donor, prospective donor, volunteer and staff confidence.

We have been moving at a rapid pace—researching, studying, asking, evaluating and communicating. A steady, but rapid pace. Too often we see nonprofits not planning ahead, and then suddenly trying to rush a study process and then rush a campaign. If you are looking at a major campaign, begin taking the right steps at least a year in advance—and ideally two. Hurry up, slow down and prepare. It will put you in the fast lane toward a successful campaign.

Why is it that most of us don’t tell our story when given the opportunity? A story is much more compelling than dry facts and figures.

With all the modern channels to potential donors, learn the myriad of ways you can grow your list and engage new supporters.

How well do you know the people you serve? How well do you know the folks you solicit for gifts? I'm not talking about recognizing them on the street or at an event. I mean how well do you know the kind of life they live? How well do you know how they handle their finances? How well do you know what their day looks like from start to end?

Ted Hart speaks with Meredith Hancks, director of prospect research and management at Western Illinois University, about donor prospect research on his Nonprofit Coach radio show.

A donor gives because he has been inspired by the work your organization does and the work you have done to match his passion with the mission. Everything else is the cherry.