In times of economic uncertainty, fundraisers have to adapt to shifting donor behaviors and giving trends. While charitable contributions may fluctuate, strategic development activities can help you maintain stability and help you meet your goals.

The federal grant freeze could leave nonprofits facing major funding gaps. Learn how to adapt, diversify revenue, and navigate this uncertainty.

Here are some indicators you should be looking at to measure your success beyond just meeting or exceeding your financial goals.

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?