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Top Ten Fundraising Tips

Top Ten Tips for Fundraising Success

1. Asking for money is easier than it seems. Most people shiver at the thought of soliciting someone for money. Relax. This should be a pleasant experience. Both you and your donor share a lot in common – the least of which is your love of sailing.

2. You are not asking for money for yourself; you are asking for the organization. Never think you need to apologize for asking for a gift. Rather, you are giving the donor an opportunity to participate in a high-grade investment.

3. People won’t give unless they are asked. One of the biggest reasons people don’t give is because they are not asked.

4. Increased involvement leads to increased giving. When talking to donors you should also encourage their attendance at events and their participation in related programs. Involving prospects with the organization will lead to increased financial support.

5. Recency-Frequency-Generosity: a marketing truism. Your best donors are those who have given recently, give consistently and give generously. Continue to cultivate them; they are the easiest to upgrade. They are also your best ambassadors to assist in soliciting other donors.

6. Direct, personal contact is the best form of solicitation. A personal visit or a telephone call will ensure the most successful outcome.

7. Aim high. Ask for an amount that is high enough to challenge and flatter your prospect. Most people give from their income, and do not give more than they can afford.

8. Guilt doesn’t work. The majority of donors resent the use of guilt tactics and are much more likely to give if you focus on matters that touch the heart. Show them how their gift can make a difference.

9. Success lies in Courage, Enthusiasm, Patience, Persistence. All successful negotiations consist of:
    1) mustering up the strength;
    2) providing a convincing presentation of the facts;
    3) allowing the time for both parties to verbalize their thoughts and to think about each other’s points; and
    4) follow-up.

10. You can never say “thank you” too often. The secret of fundraising is to aim not only for the donor’s first contribution but for future giving. Even if a prospect does not give, it is important to thank him or her for the time. If your contact is pleasant he or she will appreciate it and may give to the organization when more able.

Yacht Club Spotlight: Carlyle Sailing Association

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US SAILING Knowledge Base

Top Ten Fundraising Tips

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