You have to have a plan or strategy which details what your aims and objectives are as an organisation over the next 3-5 years and which, a fundraising strategy feeds into. There are many NGOs that operate without a strategic plan and just have a simple fundraising plan which is centred on securing income to support various projects.
However, this will not help develop and grow the NGO as it is limited in its long-term view and vision. By developing a strategic plan, it is possible to really think about where you want your projects to be in 1, 3, 5 years? What would those projects look like? What changes would you have made to the lives of your beneficiaries?
By doing this, it is possible to fundraise for a range of different elements that will support your growth and force you to consider the issue of sustainability so that projects can continue after funding ends, and you can develop and adapt your services to new areas of need.
