Fundraising begins with a simple, brilliant idea that will usher in the money, support, and success your organization envisions. However, the idea can get lost when common fundraising pitfalls plague the cause.
Whether you're in charge of upgrading the high school marching band uniforms or running a full-blown political campaign, no fundraiser is immune to the common fundraising mistakes below. Knowing them is the key to avoiding them—and ensuring a successful campaign and overall fundraising strategy.
A fundraiser plan is fated to fail from the start if your group doesn’t reach a consensus about the who’s, what’s, when’s, where’s, and why’s. The first step is evaluating the goals and needs of your organization, asking yourself questions such as:
Though money is a huge part of this process (the "fund" in "fundraising"), it’s even more important not to lose sight of why you’re fundraising. With a bright North star lighting your path, your fundraising program is certain to find its financial footing.
Once everyone is on the same page, it’s time to consider support. What kinds of people, community members, and organizations will likely support you? Brainstorm who might care about your cause and who has the means to contribute, whether through money or other donations. The more candidates you come up with, the better, since depending on a sole supporter can diminish your fundraiser’s potential.
Additionally, think about how much money you need upfront since sponsorships or donations from local businesses or other community organizations can make a big difference in the beginning. If they donate money, products, or used equipment, you save on initial costs.
Big ideas catalyze the fundraiser, but the details take it to the finish line. Don’t forget to consider the greater context of your program or event.
Here are a few examples of what not to do:
Along with avoiding these fundraising mistakes, track your progress and stay organized. We recommend keeping a calendar of deadlines and goal timeframes.
Outstanding fundraisers start right in the neighborhood. Businesses, organizations, and individuals feel a collective responsibility to their local community. So if you highlight how your fundraiser benefits local interests while looking for funding, supplies, and labor, you’re bound to find it.
Keeping your community in mind involves fundraising from the inside out. No effective fundraiser began by calling up a random business owner across the globe. Look toward your inner circles for support, strengthening trusted relationships and building rapport. This foundation will make it easier to reach the next layer of circles, and so on.
Before approaching potential contributors, practice your elevator pitch. Entering conversations with nothing prepared will not only seem unprofessional but also create challenges in gaining sponsorship and donations. Provide people with a brief explanation of your fundraising program or event, who it will serve, its objectives, and the timeline.
Reach out to community members through phone calls, emails, or letters—and even better, meet in person if you can. While presenting your fundraiser, ask for a specific amount of money or gift. You’re more likely to be successful with a precise request than asking for a general donation.
Maintaining connections with participants and contributors is just as important as establishing them. Through continued engagement, your fundraiser will achieve a lasting impact on the community.
Ways to continue engaging:
While your fundraising campaign may end when the deadline strikes, the community you’ve created endures long after.
We hope these tips help you overcome the most common fundraising pitfalls. To propel your fundraising strategy even further, upgrade to a better way to fundraise with RaiseRight. You and your supporters can earn money for your organization—just by shopping or dining as usual.
Simply buy gift cards, shop online, or dine at local restaurants to earn a percentage back for your organization—6% on average, up to 20%. There's no need to ask supporters to donate out-of-pocket or volunteer for time- and labor-intensive events. Adding RaiseRight to your fundraising strategy isn't just a smart move—it's a win-win for everyone involved.
Here are some next steps to get the ball rolling:
If your organization is already earning with RaiseRight, you just need your enrollment code to create an account and begin fundraising right away.