Marlo’s Top 5 Tips for Fundraising Success - January 2022

1) It is our job to ask, it is their job to say yes or no. Far too often we spend hours worrying about how people are going to react if we ask them for money. We make assumptions about people’s capacity and desire to give, or not. Who are we to step in and decide for them? Every act of giving is a radical act, and we should give potential donors the honour of choosing which causes they want to support.

2) Explain what you want to do with the money. What is the impact of their donation? It is really important to develop a clear, short pitch that allows people to understand what their funds are being used for. Worried about salary coverage not being sexy enough? Focus on the end results: how many people will be served by that staff member? How many workshops will be offered? What are the impacts of your programs on the participants?

3) Ask everyone. Fundraising is like sales, the more doors we knock on, the more chance of making a sale. So the more we ask, the more likely we are to get a yes!

Start by asking the people closest to you, who you know have an interest in the issue you are raising funds for. Branch out from there. Do a network map with your Board or team members to see which clubs, associations, teams, companies they are a part of. Set a target of asking 10-20 people each and keep each other updated on progress.

4) Set a goal and make a time limit. It is much more motivating when you have a particular target in mind. Remember the old fundraising thermometers? They work! Put something visual up internally or publicly so that you can collectively track your progress. Campaigns that go on too long or have no end date can get demotivating so make sure you set a deadline.

5) Celebrate your successes and thank your donors. Far too often, donations are received without acknowledgement. A hand-written card or personalized email with a photo of your activities goes a long way in making sure that donors feel appreciated. Consider featuring a donor testimonial on your platforms! Take the time to celebrate your volunteers and team members involved in fundraising. Success drives future success!

Credit: Many of these ideas originate from Kim Klein and the good people at the former Grassroots Institute for Fundraising training