All NGOs need to fundraise. But for new, small, and grassroots NGOs who do not yet have fundraising systems in place fundraising can be particularly challenging. Here are our steps to get on the path to fundraising success.
Step 1
Know your Organization’s need
Before you even begin to research donors and apply for funding, start by examining your own wants and needs. You can’t ask for help before you know what you need help within reviewing your own organization, make sure to look at different aspects.
Step 2
Research donors that are a match for your NGOs
With the questions in Step 1 answered you can start the research process. There are several good techniques to find like-minded donors like Check the websites and annual reports of NGOs that are doing similar work to you. See if you can find their supporters and donors. Many NGOs will list their donors on their website or annual report which are good places to start. You can also ask partners, colleagues, and current donors for suggestions.
Step – 3
Network and Reach out to these donors before sending a proposal
Now that you have created a list of donors that are a good fit for your NGO, start reaching out via email and phone/Skype. Do not send them a proposal at this point, rather, just ask for an in-person or virtual meeting. Many will not respond immediately so be persistent.
Step -4
Develop a great application
Hopefully, at this point the donor has expressed an interest in your work and has asked you to send an application. If you were unable to network with a donor who you still think is a great fit for your organization, you may consider sending them an application as well.
Step – 4
Follow up and persist
Fundraising is a long-term endeavor and success does not come overnight. It will take time and effort to reach out and convince a small group of donors from the many you have researched and identified to fund your program. Don’t give up too quickly. Be persistent and spend at least a few hours each week on donor research, outreach, proposal development, and other fundraising tasks. If you are rejected, ask the donor for feedback so you can improve. Don’t give up.
For more Information, visit https://www2.fundsforngos.org/featured/5-steps-fundraising-success-small-grassroots-ngos/
