By Gail Perry MBA CFRE on her blog Fired Up Fundraising
Gail is a consultant, speaker, author and coach for nonprofit leaders
Where do you look for potential donors?
Here are some shortcuts to help you identify the right donor prospects who can take your cause to the next level.
1. If you need funding, go to your current donors first.
They have already invested in you.
They are “pre-sold” on your organization and on your cause so to speak.
They’ve already voted with their money that they believe in you.
Work for deeper relationships with these existing donors, and you’ll be more successful.
2. Start with your most committed donors and move them into larger gifts.
Find out what they are giving and what their vision is for your organization.
How much do they really care?
Are they giving what they can? What’s their potential? What are their hot buttons?
It’s up to you to find out!
3. Look for people who have both wealth and affinity for your cause.
Focus your time on the wonderful people with deep pockets who have a reason to be interested in your cause.
“Affinity” means that there is some sort of relationship between you and the prospective donor.
Or at least you know that the donor is interested in your general cause.
Don’t spend your valuable time on people who have not indicated any type of interest, no matter how wealthy they are.
The odds are not great that you’ll be successful, and cultivation time will be lengthy.
4. Don’t expect cold calls to yield anything.
This is the big No No.
I never make cold calls. The chances of success are so very low.
Make it easier by having someone open the door to help you meet the prospect….
