Focus Fundraising

Heather Koslov, CFRE, and I presented this topic to the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP-DC) Washington, DC Metro Area Chapter recently and then decided to capture these best practices to share our institutional fundraising “secret sauce.” Whether you’re a longtime fundraiser or newer to the field, take a look at these elements critical to successful institutional fundraising. And if there’s an ingredient we missed (or that you prefer), please drop us line to let us know what’s worked for you! https://lnkd.in/gmzg-KnW

Last week, we took an election escape trip/mental health break and went to visit my friend Carol Volk in Morocco. What an incredible country! In past years, I would have pushed through what I knew could be a fraught week just to keep things on track and to manage my to-do list. I think it's fair to say that I've grown as a professional, especially over the past 10 years or so, because not only did I get out of town, but I also feel good sharing that I did it. #progress Now, about those election results......

We’re finally at Election Day! I hope you’ve already cast your ballot or have a plan to vote. Each of our voices -- and votes -- matters and will irrevocably shape our country's future. I’m staying optimistic today and am excited for the positive change that [I hope] we achieve together. Onward!

Looking to get involved with a local #nonprofit? On Wed. 10/30, Spur Local, once again celebrates the power of small, DC-area organizations at Hook Hall. From 6-8:30 pm, be a part of #CommunityChangemakers during Spur Local′s annual celebration of local social action featuring dozens of local nonprofits. It′ll be your chance to grab drinks and Timber Pizza slices + hear from on-the-ground changemakers about their critical local work. To find out more and RSVP, go to the link below.

On November 14th, join me and Heather Koslov, CFRE , National Development Director at the League of Women Voters, for "The Secret Sauce: Strategies & Tactics to Engage Institutional Funders & Raise More Revenue." In the session, we’ll cover how to engage prospective funders, what makes a strong proposal (and what may likely fall flat), and how to weather funder programmatic shifts and other unexpected challenges. This AFP DC Chapter session will be in person from 8:30 to 10 am at the offices of CSS Fundraising, 1667 K Street NW, Floor B1, Washington, DC . For more details and to register, click here. https://lnkd.in/gkRdFd5g #FundraisingStrategies #NonprofitFundraising #InstitutionalFunding #RevenueGrowth #ProposalWriting #FunderEngagement #NonprofitSuccess #FundraisingTactics #DevelopmentDirector #AFPDCC #CSSFundraising #WashingtonDCEvents #NonprofitLeadership #FundraisingTips #NonprofitEvents #ProfessionalDevelopment #FundraiserTraining#EngageFunders

Last month, we added this great blog post by Leila Fitzpatrick with whom Focus partners on many of its cases for support. So often, writers share how to create or frame your case for support, which stories to include, etc. In her post, Leila shares tips on using the case once it's complete. One point we love is to rein in your temptation to broadcast your case to your broad list. Rather than just posting it on your website, your case is a terrific stewardship opportunity to create a special touchpoint with both donors and prospects. If you don’t have a case to share, you can also use this tip and share details on new programs, impact language you’ve sent to funders and have re-packaged for individuals, or other documents where you’re describing plans or initiatives. https://lnkd.in/gixiiGNC

In a follow-up post to my recent article, Navigating 2024’s Unique Year-End Fundraising Landscape, Focus consultant Gregg Kelley wrote about Maximizing Year-End Giving: Strategies for a Successful Fundraising Campaign. Gregg builds on my post and provides some additional insight based on his experience working for civil rights/racial equity organizations. Read more for key strategies to ensure your campaign stands out and resonates with donors. https://lnkd.in/geHNwjmb

I’ve written about year-end planning a lot, including messaging tips and strategies to leverage matching gifts and prioritize your major donors. All of those recommendations still apply this year, but 2024 is likely to be very different because of the election. Whether your work is steeped in advocacy and the outcome of the election is pivotal to your mission or you’re further removed from policies or government, your donors are likely to be distracted and preoccupied this fall. What does this mean for you? It’s more important than ever that you have a clear strategy and solid plan in place for year-end fundraising this year. Read more here. Also, as a bonus, we have a complimentary end-of-year planning template. To get your copy, please comment below. https://lnkd.in/gb-_jaQx

I’m a big advocate for remote work, and I firmly believe it has played a pivotal role in Focus's success. Last weekend, I met for breakfast with one of our senior consultants, Jackie Indek Beres, who has been working with us for over a year. Yes, most everything can be done virtually these days, but connecting in person is still pretty great. #remotework #wfh #virtualoffice #beflexible

Being down just one member of a development team can lead to big setbacks for fundraising. Whether you have a fundraising position that needs to be filled on a temporary basis while you’re hiring or you have a member of your team who will be out for an extended period of time, interim staffing is a way to fill a gap to ensure you don’t miss opportunities.? Focus consultant Jackie Indek Beres has over 15 years of experience in development and has spent time in interim roles several times over the last few years. She shares her perspective on interim roles and how to make the best of a staffing gap here.