Compiled by Allison Riese, Director of Development
We’re coming into a busy fundraising season for most non-profits. Here are some tips for ways to raise money for your organization’s mission—it starts with a simple ask!
Tip #1: People give because they are asked. It can be tough to look someone in the eyes and say some variation of the words “I’d like to invite you to invest $100 in our work.” And, you can’t make the mistake of not asking because your work is important to your clients and your donors. If you don’t ask, the answer will always be no!
Tip #2: Be sure to ask for a specific amount (something that’s a stretch, but not unrealistic). Start today by calling a lapsed donor and asking for a renewal gift that is slightly bigger than their previous contribution. Practice this type of direct and specific ask on your board members, coworkers, family, and friends, and in no time you will be a master fundraiser.
Tip #3: Be clear about what you spend money on as an organization and your impact. But don’t get stuck in the numbers! Tell a client story that hit your heart or your own story of what brought you to this work. You will leave the conversation feeling excited about your work and energized to keep fundraising.
Tip #4: Ask with pride! It is an honor to be a representative of your organization and bridge for donors’ desire to do good. Almost everyone feels great when they give from the heart to an important cause. Don’t let your fundraising fear get in the way of your clients’ needs and your donors’ joy.
Tip #5. If you don’t know; let the donor know. You don’t need to be absolutely certain how much a donor can give or what element of your work they want to support. Try saying “You know, [donor’s name], I have no idea how much to really ask you for…Would a gift of [insert specific dollar amount] to [insert project or fund or the nonprofit’s name] be possible and interesting for you?”
Learn more about grassroots fundraising here: www.grassrootsfundraising.org
