How to Do More with Less

How will you raise more money with less funding?

This seems to be the question countless institutions are asking right now. And while a shifting economy, inflation and federal spending cuts have dampened many budgets, they’ve simultaneously made philanthropy more important than ever.

These two facts may be at odds with each other, but that doesn’t diminish the fact that the ability to inspire donor generosity has become absolutely essential for our institutions to carry out their vision.

So where do advancement professionals go from here? My hope is that we will take this moment and advocate for our work, our profession and our teams more than ever before. Philanthropy is one of very few levers that can be pulled to see us through this time; and skilled, dedicated fundraising team members are essential for taking advantage of this opportunity.

At the same time, we must be focused, strategic and purposeful:

Focused on the activities that we know build the most generous relationships — outreach, engagement, connection and philanthropic invitations (solicitation).

Strategic in determining what we can do without—now is not a time to do away with the programs like annual giving and donor relations that will decimate a future donor pipeline.

Purposeful in the way we engage our donors, our partners and our leaders to understand the value, necessity and opportunity of philanthropy.

We know that when we align giving opportunities with donor values, philanthropy becomes the growth opportunity each of our institutions needs right now. If we can remain committed to fundraising that is centered around building long-term, impactful relationships, we will be poised to build during this moment.

It’s our chance now to champion philanthropy and the essential work of our teams in securing it. That includes being champions for ourselves. Reduced budgets and increased expectations will create real challenges. This is why we must lift ourselves up, advocate for our needs and understand the value we bring to the table and the cause.

The work of an advancement team has never been more essential. This year will have challenges, but it can be one of endless purpose and opportunity too. I hope each of us will reflect on, and share, our pride in it.