How to develop a fundraising strategy, with a template

14 June 2024
Strategy
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This is part of our collection of resources aimed at small fundraising teams, individual fundraisers and small charities. Produced by the Chartered Institute and our expert partners.

Michelle Chambers
Michelle Chambers
Chief Executive, THINK

Developing a well-thought-out fundraising strategy is essential for small charities to achieve their financial goals and sustain their mission. This is our guide on how to create a fundraising strategy.

If you work in a small charity or are part of a small fundraising team, or perhaps you work as a sole fundraiser, finding the time to do the big picture strategic thinking can be really hard. But it is important to make time for it, and you can use this new fundraising strategy template to help shape your thinking.

A strong fundraising strategy provides focus, direction, and a clear plan of action. It helps small charities prioritise efforts, allocate resources effectively, and measure progress. Ultimately, having a well-crafted strategy ensures that you can secure the vital funds needed to make a lasting difference in the community you serve.

How to get started

To get started, follow these steps:

  1. Define your objectives: clearly outline your funding needs, goals, and target audience.
  2. Research potential funders: identify potential donors, foundations, and grants that align with your charity's mission and goals.
  3. Choose fundraising channels: determine the most effective ways to reach your target audience, such as events, online campaigns, direct mail, or face-to-face fundraising.
  4. Develop your message: craft a compelling and consistent narrative that communicates your impact and vision, inspiring donors to support your cause.
  5. Create a timeline and budget: establish milestones, deadlines, and financial projections to guide your fundraising efforts.

For an in-depth template that can help you start from scratch with a fundraising strategy, or build on one you already have, please download the template.

Our thanks to THINK for providing the below fundraising strategy template.

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