How to Be a Successful Fundraiser
11 Great Tips on Bringing in the Bills
- Be Firm. In doing so, people may have more confidence in you and your cause.
- Become incorporated as a 501(c)3. There are tons of advantages to having this for your organization, or having an incorporated sponsor.
- Stay organized. It is beneficial to have a budget for the year and your projects. It will help to legitimize your work for potential donors.
- Look for connections. Find out if anyone you know (parents, neighbors, etc.) have a connection in the corporate world.
- Don't be discouraged. Keep in mind that you will likely hear “no” more often than you will hear potential donors say “yes.” Learn from them and figure out how to better approach others next time.
- Avoid the government – at first. At earlier stages in the development of your organization, avoid appealing to the government for money. Keep in mind that government money is highly politicized and often not distributed by merit.
- Remember to count products donations at tax time. Make sure that item donations are not over-valued when seeking tax deductions.
- Ask for money again - later. Don’t press for a greater donation on the spot; rather, ask for another donation again later in the same year.
- Be passionate. People will respond better to someone who knows a lot about their organization and is excited about it.
- Reach out to people. Don’t hesitate to contact as many people as you can, no matter who they are.
- Connect your project specifically to the donor. Know WHY you’re asking this specific corporation, or organization for money for THIS project, NOW. You have to make that connection clear.
BR!CK Award/Grants Alumni Call
Topic: Bringing in the Bills: How to be a Successful Fundraiser
Guest Speaker: Susan Davies, Senior Director of Capital Requests, American Cancer Society
Date: August 21, 2007