Fundraising Planning. The fundraising planning process should result in a comprehensive written document that outlines the organization’s vision and development goals, as well as the resources and action steps required to reach the goals, so that anyone in the organization could discuss the results of the plan based on information given in it. Shared ownership by all staff and board members, of both the development plan and the process that creates it, is essential. The link between the development function and the mission and programs it supports need to be clearly recognized and reflected in organizational planning. Any lack of communication between the two areas can hinder fund development. Involving all stakeholders in the development planning process builds organizational understanding and ownership.
Essential elements of a fundraising/development plan:
1. Recognition that fundraising goals are linked to the organization’s mission and projects, and are part of the organization’s ability to meet its mission.
2. Development of a shared organizational vision among program and development staff and the board of directors that informs the process and is articulated in the fundraising plan, including direct involvement by each staff and board member in some portion of the plan.
3. Gather information; participate in overall organizational budgeting process; set specific goals including the amount of money to be raised aligned with identified organizational goals.
4. Write the plan and get board approval.
5. Implement the plan and continue regular monitoring, review and evaluation.
