Practical Fundraising - Fundraising

3. Fundraising Money - who gives it?

Now, ok, you know you need money, but where is it going to come from? You need to know the answer to this to help you plan more effectively. And of course, you need to appeal to as wide a range of donors as possible. By targeting the appropriate groups, your resources will be well used, both with regard to money and time. For example, the Heart and Stroke Foundation are more likely to target those who have lost loved ones to heart attacks or strokes, the Girl Guides target grocery shoppers by setting up their stalls outside supermarkets. You get the idea.

So who gives fundraising money?

Many people and groups are willing to give money to non-profit organizations that support a good cause. A donor can be

Individuals: Many non-profits, especially smaller organizations, get a lot of their money from individuals, usually people who have some connection to that particular cause. Often these donations are small, but these add up overall. If you can find some donors who are willing to give larger donations, it is worth your while educating these people as to the aims of your group, and your successes, even failures, because this information will spread to others and it could increase your donations.

Companies: many companies are big supporters of non-profit groups. The profits made by the companies in your area are pumped back into the community in many ways - including through employment, taxation, and through direct donations. Local grocery stores are likely to donate goods rather than make a cash donation, but all donations are good. Please make sure that their donations are acknowledged to the community, may be by having a list of sponsors at the main fundraising event, or in acknowledging their gift in a newsletter.

Governments: Local, state, and federal governments can be a huge source of money for non-profit groups. Through grants and programs, governments give away enormous sums each year to charities and non-profit groups, from the largest groups to the very smallest. Grants and government support are not sources of money you will want to ignore, especially as some grant money each year goes unclaimed - money that could help your non-profit group prosper.

Other Charitable Groups: Non-profits often help each other. Larger organizations such as the Red Cross or United Way will often give support and even money support to local charities and groups doing similar work. Churches, schools, and local groups will often fundraise or gather donations for a group they believe in. These groups can be a great resource, and, large and small, they should not be ignored.

Useful resources

3. Fundraising Money - who gives it?

Practical Fundraising Ebook - Table Of Contents