How to Fund Raise Effectively for a Nonprofit Organization

You've got a great cause, but you need the funds to back it up. A solid plan, a little "know how," and a strong work ethic will get you on your way.

Instructions

1. Assess the needs and goals of your non-profit organization. What do you want to accomplish?

2. Review the federal and state limitations set for non-profit fundraising.

3. Review your existing fundraising programs. Assess their strengths and weaknesses.

4. Brainstorm for original fundraising ideas. One-of-a-kind ideas attract a lot of attention.

5. Decide if you want to solicit funds face-to-face, through mailers, by phone, online, through special events, or through a combination of these.

6. Cultivate existing relationships. A well-known saying says "fundraising is not raising funds, it's raising friends."

7. Solicit large corporations for philanthropic funds through their public relations department. Think like a business when approaching corporations.

8. Solicit funds from corporations that are moving to the area and want to establish a "presence."

9. Solicit donations of equipment and supplies from local companies. Even food or flowers can be obtained for small events.

10. Consider establishing a partnership with a local corporation. Determine what your organization might be able to offer the company, then contact their marketing department.

11. Seek government grants and donations.

12. Consider hosting special events. Considerable expenses are involved, and profits may be minimal, but events generate visibility and name recognition.

13. Contact all local media before your special event. Advertise as much as you can.

14. Continue fundraising until you have a base-level of cash flow. Future fundraisers can build on that foundation.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider buying software designed for non-profit fundraising and management.

• Cultivate relationships with potential contributors slowly. Start by inviting them to attend an organizational meeting or event.

• Face-to-face soliciting requires rock-hard dedication. Pick volunteers who have demonstrated outstanding dedication to the organization.

• There's no magic formula for effective fundraising. The most important element is hard work.

• It is essential to maintain your non-profit status. Raffles (and other similar events) are prohibited in many states. Make sure you adhere to the law.