Fundraising Strategies for Small to Medium Sized Groups Joanne Ryan and Sarah Boardman

Fundraising The bottom line is, without funding, you won’t be able to run any projects! Fundraising can often be intimidating, but it is important to have a fundraising ‘action plan’ (and ideally a fundraising strategy) to make sure you can maximise your income, and raise the funding you need

Fundraising Fundraising can often take a long time – some funders will take 6 to 12 months to decide whether to fund you. Therefore, you need to plan ahead to make sure the money you need comes in when you need it. However, there are still a few fundraising ‘quick wins’ out there…

Fundraising ‘Quick Wins’

WORKSHOP 1 Do you know, or can you think, of any fundraising ‘quick wins’?

Quick Wins Quick wins can include: Using your networks – to access major donors, trusts and individuals A few quick turnabout funders – e.g. Awards for All Networking – e.g. with local Council

Developing a Fundraising Strategy

Developing a fundraising strategy is crucial for: Planning out how you will spend the time you have for fundraising wisely Trying to ensure you have the funding you need, when you need it.

WORKSHOP 2 What sections should be included in a fundraising strategy?

What should be included in a fundraising strategy? The following should be covered: The overall fundraising target Sources of funding e.g. Statutory, Lottery and European funders; Trusts and Foundations; corporates; community; individuals; major donor; legacies; and trading income.

What should be included in a fundraising strategy? An overall timetable and work plan Roles and responsibilities of the individuals involved in fundraising – i.e. who will do all of the work above! A fundraising budget

What should be included in a fundraising strategy? The fundraising strategy should also supported by a Business Plan or a Case for Support.

A word of caution

When developing your fundraising strategy you will need to carefully consider: How much time do you have for fundraising? Who will be implementing the strategy? How much money do you have for fundraising? Where would it be best to concentrate your efforts?

A word of caution: Return on investment

A word of caution Finally, make sure your overall fundraising target and the amount of funding you need to run your projects (in your business plan or case for support) are the same…

Any questions? If you have any questions, big or small, now is the time to ask!

Contact us For more help, or information, contact us: Joanne Ryan and Sarah Boardman The Bright Ideas Partnership Tel: