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Approaching new Donors for your Fundraising Project

Fundraiser Newsletter Article

Most commonly I see people asking how to go about starting a fundraising project. Most companies know what they need to raise funds for and how much - but they are at a loss when it comes to creating a fundraiser. The process is the same for recurring fundraisers and first time fundraisers, below we are going to share our tips for success below:

Before finding new sponsors and donors make sure you have all your facts straight and laid out. How much money are you hoping to raise? What is the money needed for? You must be specific and let them understand why you need their financial support. Always be professional when contacting potential donors, even if they are family, friends and business acquaintances.

When approaching a new donor, one of their first questions will likely be, what other sources of funding do you have and from whom. They will be looking to see if those with a stake in the organization have come forward to offer their support of your cause. If the board does not support your fundraising project then why should anyone else support it? The show of support from your board can go along way into convincing new prospects about the dedication of the organization and the people that run it.

Employees of the organization with whom you intend to do business should be asked to also participate in the fundraising project at hand. Some companies have policies in place against giving to an organization with whom they are doing business – but you won’t know unless you ask. Many times you will be pleasantly surprised to find that contacting a vendor may lead to a donation or gift from a larger corporation. Anyway you toss it; it’s more financing for your new fundraising project!
After contacting potential organizations and solicited support from their employees, you should have a decent level of participation for your fundraising event. Reach out to the community in your fundraising efforts and let them know you have exhausted all resources from your own people and you are still seeking more funding prospects.
No matter the fundraising project I am working on, I am always prepared with as much information as possible when going to the community and local resources for help. I want them to know and understand that I have done all I could do with my own corporation and contacts but I am still in need of additional help; after all it will lend your cause credibility.

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