Whether you’re a longtime fundraiser or newer to the field, these best practices for institutional fundraising are critical for long-term success.

While I don’t have mind reading capabilities [yet!], my years in fundraising have given me a glimpse into what your donors may be trying to say when they aren’t responsive. In this post, I share some examples of what they may be thinking, and a few insights that may help you figure out how to re-engage them.

This year-end giving season is not only pivotal due to its proximity to holidays and the spirit of generosity they inspire but also because it coincides with the upcoming presidential election. This dual context of festive giving and political uncertainty necessitates an even sharper strategic approach. Let’s explore key strategies to ensure your campaign stands out and resonates with donors.

Whether your mission is steeped in advocacy and the outcome of the election is pivotal to your mission, or you’re further removed with a focus that isn’t related to policies or government, your donors are likely to be distracted and preoccupied this fall.

Each year in June, Giving USA, along with the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at Indiana University, releases data on giving across America for the previous year. Yesterday’s release, Giving USA 2024: The Annual Report on Philanthropy for the Year 2023, showed overall charitable giving totaled $557.16 billion in 2023. While giving grew 1.9% in current dollars (reaching a new high), factoring in the 4.1% inflation rate, giving was actually down by 2.1%.

If you’ve been fundraising for awhile, you know a smart, compelling case for support is a go-to essential for your fundraising toolbox. You probably also know it’s not as simple as “if we write it, people will give.” So, how do you use your case to build investment and motivate donors?

In the ever-shifting world of fundraising, donor-advised funds (DAFs) have become a key tool for donors to manage their charitable giving, providing a flexible and tax-efficient way for individuals to support causes they care about.

As development professionals, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking you don’t have time to build relationships with donors or connect regularly with your funders. However, this work is essential for the sustainability and success of your organization. These activities go beyond just securing financial support; they open doors to collaboration, connections to other potential supporters, a deeper understanding of your mission, and long-term engagement that can drive your organization forward.

Being down just one member of a development team can lead to big setbacks for fundraising. Whether you have a fundraising position that needs to be filled on a temporary basis while a search is being conducted or you have a member of your team who will be out for an extended period of time, interim staffing is a way to fill a gap that ensures you don’t miss opportunities.