Fundraising

Fundraising is the process of gathering voluntary contributions of money or other resources, by requesting donations from individuals, businesses, charitable foundations, or governmental agencies. Although fundraising typically refers to efforts to gather money for non-profit organizations, it is sometimes used to refer to the identification and solicitation of investors or other sources of capital for for-profit enterprises.

Types of Fundraising

There are several types of fundraising, including:

• Direct Mail: This involves sending fundraising letters to a large number of potential donors.

• Online Fundraising: This is the practice of soliciting donations via the internet. Many non-profit organizations use online fundraising as a way to draw in donations from a wide audience.

• Event Fundraising: This involves organizing events, such as charity runs or dinners, to raise funds.

• Grant Writing: This involves writing applications for grants from foundations, government agencies, and other entities that provide funding.

• Major Gifts: This involves soliciting large donations from individuals or organizations.

• Planned Giving: This involves making arrangements for a future gift through a will or other form of designation.

Fundraising Strategies

Successful fundraising strategies are context-dependent and can vary widely among organizations. However, most strategies involve the following steps:

• Identifying Potential Donors: This involves researching potential donors and identifying those who are most likely to give.

• Cultivating Relationships: This involves building relationships with potential donors through regular communication and engagement.

• Making the Ask: This involves directly asking potential donors for a donation.

• Stewarding Donors: This involves thanking donors, keeping them informed about how their donations are used, and maintaining a relationship with them so they continue to give in the future.

Regulation and Ethics

Fundraising is regulated by state, federal, and international law. In addition, many organizations adhere to ethical codes and standards in their fundraising activities. These standards address issues such as donor privacy, transparency, and the use of donated funds.

See Also

• Non-profit Organization
• Charitable Organization
• Philanthropy

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  Hand holding a red fundraising box

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  Collecting for victims