“You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” — Hockey great Wayne Gretzky
Growing your fundraising program — or getting one started — can feel like an overwhelming responsibility. The philanthropic landscape is extremely competitive; the prospect of identifying and soliciting prospective donors can seem cumbersome and intimidating.
But the opportunity is out there, and it’s tremendous! Charitable giving is on the rise around the world. “Overall, the world became a more generous place last year”, according to the 2013 World Giving Index poll. “Despite a slowdown in the global economy, the average percentage of people donating money, volunteering time and helping a stranger all increased.” In the United States alone – the world’s largest philanthropic market – charitable grants and donations totaled $335 billion in 2013, according to the annual Giving USA report. There were increases in both individual giving (up 2.7%) and foundation giving (up 4.2%) over 2012, helped by a rebounding stock market.
Of course, the challenges in raising funds will vary significantly country to country. (See the efforts in giving in your country.) There will be differences in traditions of giving, the legal environment, and the availability of funds. But there is a lot of money out there, and a smart, determined effort can have real success. In launching a fundraising program, it’s important to remember that you and your organization offer an opportunity as well. Your work produces impact and makes change in the world by shining light on stories otherwise ignored— in reaching out to a new prospective donor, you are offering them an opportunity to be a part of that. No matter who they are or how wealthy they are, that’s something they can’t get anywhere else.
So keep it simple. Remember that people give to people, and people give because they are asked. Be proactive, persistent, and polite. Most importantly, get started! Building fruitful fundraising relationships takes time!
