The evolution of humankind has been marked by monumental milestones: the discovery and use of fire 2 million years ago; the invention of the wheel – estimated at around 4,000 BC; steam power; the Industrial Revolution; electricity; the telegram; the telephone; X-rays and massive strides in medical science; radar; computing; email; the worldwide web. The …
The terms ‘goals’ and ‘objectives’ are often confused by NPO staff members and volunteers. Importantly, these are understood by donors. Therefore, it’s vital that these are clear within the NPO sector, particularly by those applying to companies and donor trusts/foundations for funding. Well-run organisations’ projects have theories of change (which should have been developed in …
We are often reminded that fundraising is an art, not a science. Many of us go about resourcing our organisations differently. For instance, the most popular course I teach covers fundraising proposal writing. I share a suggested template and talk through the rationale behind and reasons for each section. But, I stress throughout this course …
Most corporate and local trust/foundation donors fund projects for just a year at a time. Although there are a few notable exceptions, the majority of international donor trusts and foundations also restrict their giving to a year. It’s frustrating for fundraisers, CEOs and programme and project managers who want the security of sustained funding for …
Never before has a generation so diligently recorded themselves accomplishing so little. I found this quote on social media (where else?) but cannot establish who first said it. (Or rather, neither Google nor ChatGPT can tell me.) Facetious as this line may sound, particularly to Gen Zers or Zoomers (born between 1997 and 2012), the …
It happens often, We, as fundraisers see a clever concept to resource a non-profit and say, ‘what a good idea!’ Sadly, there are too few such good ideas. The world of fundraising is drowning in the same old (often boring) concepts, many of which don’t work, or the returns are not worth the effort. And, …
Despite the plethora of social media platforms and these channels’ rapid adoption by non-profits, it’s vital to have a website. Potential donors expect NPOs to have websites. Social media platforms alone do not suffice. Having a website adds credibility in a world reeling from the ever-increasing and more and more sophisticated scams evolving at an …
No shortcuts in fundraising, that is. Resourcing a not-for-profit entity is, sadly, tough. And many great concepts to address crises never get off the ground due to the visionaries being unable to find funding. Many non-profits also close – go bankrupt – in the same way as businesses fold. Companies can’t sell their products or …
I was asked in a consulting session the other day, ’How can our Patron assist in our fundraising?’ I asked who she was. I had not heard of her (but that did not matter as she is a sportswoman, and I don’t follow sport). I wanted to know how strong her social media presence was …
I’ve come to recognise the signs. In well over two decades of fundraising consulting, I have had many people book a session ‘to discuss how we can increase our income’. As this is something that I can generally assist with, I schedule their slot. I feel it to be ethical to check what clients need …
