For my last post of the year, I wanted to share nine (not necessarily related) truths about fundraising that I’ll bring with me into 2010.
1. Solicit frequently. The more you solicit, the more donations you will receive—even if each individual solicitation is not as successful as you might hope.
2. Read through the entire grant instructions before you begin writing – and do this long before the grant’s due date.
3. A supply of black tablecloths for your events is more useful than a supply of white ones.
4. Plan ahead. Tell yourself your deadlines are earlier than they really are. Schedule solicitations as if your timeline ends a month before it actually does.
5. Donors enjoy fun, personal thank you letters. Informative does not necessarily equal formal.
6. Take inspiration from sales tools and marketing devices from for-profit companies, especially the big ones that spend a lot more on design and research than your non-profit most likely does.
7. Stay organized.
8. Don’t be afraid to keep your organization’s leaders fully informed, even if you have bad news to share. They’ll appreciate your honesty and will likely be able to help you!
9. Above all else, arts fundraising relies on your ability to spread the joy, value, and richness your art form gives to society.
Happy new year everyone.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Posts
I am starting to do some fundraising at the non-profit where I am employed. These tips are helpful. Thank you for sharing.
ReplyDelete