Introduction: As the world navigates unprecedented challenges, fundraisers everywhere are asking the same crucial questions: What’s working in fundraising right now? What should we be doing differently? With uncertainty looming large, it’s more important than ever to adapt, innovate, and learn from each other’s experiences. Let’s dive into what’s working—and what isn’t—in the current fundraising landscape.
The Big Questions Fundraisers Are Asking
In the midst of the coronavirus crisis, many fundraisers are grappling with key decisions:
- Should we continue asking for support, or is it better to hold off?
- Is it time to cancel our upcoming fundraising events, or should we pivot to virtual alternatives?
- How do we stay in touch with our donors without overwhelming them?
These questions are valid and reflect the complexities of fundraising during a global pandemic. The good news? You’re not alone in this. Fundraisers around the world are navigating these same waters, and many are finding creative, effective ways to keep their missions alive.
Learning from Success: Real-Life Fundraising Innovations
Tim Kachuriak of NextAfter recently shared insights on how dozens of nonprofits are successfully communicating with donors during these challenging times. His data-driven approach offers a clear picture of what’s working in the field. For example, nonprofits that are staying connected with donors through consistent, empathetic communication are seeing better engagement and continued support.
This sparked an idea: Why not bring together fundraisers to share their real-life strategies and successes? On April 30, we’ll host a Zoom call featuring 12-15 creative fundraisers who will present their innovative approaches in a rapid-fire, Shark Tank-style format. This is your chance to learn directly from your peers—what’s working, what’s not, and how you can apply these lessons to your own fundraising efforts.
A Few Examples to Get You Inspired
Here are a few innovative approaches that have been making waves:
- Virtual Events: Many organizations are pivoting to virtual events with great success. From online galas to virtual run/walk fundraisers, these events are keeping communities engaged and donations flowing.
- Personalized Donor Outreach: Tailoring messages to address the current concerns of your donors can make a significant impact. Highlighting how their support directly helps those affected by the crisis can strengthen their connection to your cause.
- Leveraging New Tax Incentives: As Mike Barvick pointed out, recent U.S. stimulus measures include new tax benefits for charitable giving. Informing your donors about these opportunities could encourage increased generosity.
Practical Tips for Navigating the Current Landscape
As you plan your next steps, keep these practical tips in mind:
- Stay Engaged: Now is not the time to go silent. Continue reaching out to your donors, but be mindful of their circumstances. Empathy and understanding go a long way.
- Be Transparent: Clearly communicate the challenges your organization is facing and how donor support can make a difference. Honesty builds trust.
- Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try new approaches. Whether it’s a virtual event or a new messaging strategy, testing different methods can reveal what resonates best with your audience.
Conclusion: Keep Moving Forward
The current environment is challenging, but it also presents unique opportunities for innovation in fundraising. By staying connected, learning from others, and adapting to new realities, you can continue to fulfill your organization’s mission. Remember, you don’t have to navigate these waters alone—there’s a community of fundraisers ready to support you.
