How do you link fundraising and policy objectives?

Having a coherent theory of change is very critical in ensuring the nexus between policy objectives and fundraising. In the absence of a theory of change, developing one becomes a crucial value add that enriches the fundraising efforts.

You should certainly link your policy objectives to your mission, vision, values and theory of change. To support funders to invest in your work be sure to carefully articulate the activities you will be using to engage in policy. This extra step of insight, will help funders develop the necessary trust to support engaging in policy-advocacy strategies to effect change. Being transparent with activity helps to reassure funders that the policy work you will undertake is appropriate for the entity you are fundraising for.

Keep it simple. The reason we fundraise is to advance the mission of the organization. Often this requires the need to advocate for or against legislation that will impact your mission. Policy does not change your mission it expands the narrative around your work. Policy initiatives create an opportunity to expand your messaging through thought leadership, testimonials and data reporting. Connect with media outlets to share your organizations perspective of the policy proposal. This coverage is a validation of your organizations area of expertise and the competence of your leadership. Leverage this coverage to connect with your donors and supporters.

Consider the following components: Problem Definition: Clearly define the problem or issue that your organization seeks to address through its policy work. Understand the root causes and consequences of the problem. Mission Alignment: Ensure that your policy objectives align seamlessly with your organization's overarching mission and vision. Stakeholder Analysis: Identify all pertinent stakeholders. Gain insight into their respective roles, interests, and influence concerning your policy objectives. Barriers and Risks: Conduct a thorough examination of potential obstacles and risks that could impede the realization of your policy objectives. SMART Objectives: Craft your policy objectives utilizing the SMART framework.

Clearly defined objectives are critical in fundraising; we all recognize that. The same is true for any organizations policy objectives. If your organization has clearly defined policy priorities/objectives, fundraising objectives are easy to put together. Utilize the policy objectives to identify partners and other stakeholders. Don't just come to the table, build the table and get buy-in from those partners and stakeholders. Many organizations will share your policy objectives, but not have the time or infrastructure to pursue. They'll glad contribute to the cause to support those objectives if they are appropriately brought to the table with clear objectives and the simple ask for funds.

Here are key considerations: Mission Integration: Integrate your policy objectives seamlessly into your fundraising messaging. Benefit to Donors: Highlight the benefits that donors and supporters will derive from supporting your policy initiatives. Transparency: Be transparent about how funds will be used to further your policy objectives. Provide a clear breakdown of how donations will contribute to specific advocacy efforts or policy campaigns. Engagement Strategy: Develop a comprehensive engagement strategy that leverages various communication channels, such as newsletters, social media, and events, to effectively convey your fundraising case and build a community of supporters.

I often focus on the “Donor Dollar Impact” when going in for a pitch. Every donor wants their personal dollars to create an impact - if you can demonstrate how your organization makes a direct impact using their donor dollars, then you’ve successfully articulated your case.

This step involves assessing the impact and progress of your advocacy work: Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): Define and track KPIs that are directly related to your policy objectives. These could include changes in legislation, increased public awareness, or shifts in public opinion. Data Collection: Implement robust data collection methods to gather information on the progress of your policy initiatives. Use surveys, reports, and interviews to collect relevant data and feedback. Impact Assessment: Regularly assess the impact of your policy advocacy efforts. Adjustment and Adaptation: If necessary, adjust your advocacy and fundraising strategies based on the measured outcomes.

When reporting on your policy achievements, consider the following: Regular Updates: Provide regular updates on the progress of your policy initiatives. Keep donors and supporters informed about milestones, challenges overcome, and successes achieved. Impact Stories: Share compelling stories and case studies that illustrate the real-world impact of your policy work. Transparency: Maintain transparency by disclosing both successes and setbacks. Be honest about the challenges faced and how you plan to address them. Acknowledgement: Acknowledge the contributions and support of donors and supporters in the success of your policy objectives. Express gratitude for their commitment to your cause.

When it comes to fundraising, reporting on achievements and impacts is always critical. It completes the circle and gives donors the confidence to come back to your organization. If you are fundraising on policy objectives, be sure to provide regular updates to your partners, and stakeholders, both contributing and otherwise. When the goals have been met, or missed, finalize the communication on the objectives and establish that the conversations are always ongoing. Never let the conversation end.

Fundraising efforts should align with policy goals to ensure sustainable impact. By setting policy objectives that support fundraising initiatives, organizations can attract donors who share the same values and priorities. Moreover, incorporating policy advocacy into fundraising campaigns can amplify the organization's message and influence decision-makers. This integrated approach not only enhances transparency and accountability but also strengthens the organization's credibility and reputation. Ultimately, linking fundraising and policy objectives creates a cohesive strategy that drives meaningful change and fosters long-term partnerships for achieving shared goals.

Collaboration: Collaborate with other organizations, coalitions, and stakeholders who share similar policy objectives. Pooling resources and efforts can amplify your impact. Advocacy Events: Organize advocacy events, webinars, or conferences to engage with the public and policymakers directly. These events can serve as opportunities to raise funds and garner support for your policy goals. Advocacy Training: Train your team and supporters in advocacy and lobbying skills to effectively engage with decision-makers and advocate for your policy objectives. Public Engagement: Foster public engagement and awareness through campaigns, petitions, and grassroots efforts. Public support can be a powerful force in achieving policy change.

Fundraising over policy outcomes means you build the table and bring in partners. This will position your organization as the leader in the conversation and will give other stakeholders the confidence to put their funds behind you in the policy objectives. Build the table and don't be afraid to leverage your organizations infrastructure and capacity to "sell" the seats at that table to relevant partners and stakeholders.