How to develop a fundraising plan
Fundraising for nonprofits has always been my favorite volunteer role. There are many creative and fun ways to raise money for a cause. Many nonprofits don’t have anyone to take charge of their programs, as is the case with many small or startup nonprofits. Fundraising is, many times, a group project. Everyone brings in what they can and any monies owed comes out of the board’s pocket.
The first step to establishing an organized fundraising program is to put someone in charge of it. The second is to establish a budget and a projection of the next few years’ expenditures, keeping in mind there can be a huge variance in year-to-year expenditures.
So how do you get the bills paid? What if there is a special trip or event coming up that needs to be paid for? Here are some fundraising ideas for the startup or re-starting nonprofit:
- A golf outing. This is a favorite because it does not require a lot of work from the committee. The golf club handles most of the details. Choose a private golf course that will generate interest. Add some high-end raffle prizes and you have an income generating day!
- A gala event is always nice. This is a lot more work than the gold outing, but it can attract a high price per ticket
Be sure to check for matching donations from your stakeholder’s workplaces. This can double your donation! - Donations of personal property that can be auctioned off
- Bequeathments
