5 Simple Steps to a Fundraising Plan

There's a scene in Alice in Wonderland where Alice1. Put it in writing. This will help make the plan real and
meets the Cheshire cat. Alice is lost and asks if heyour goals more achievable.
can tell her which way to go. The cat says "where2. Set goals that are SMART: Specific, Measurable,
do you want to go?" and she says "I don't know."Achievable, Realistic, and Timely.
"Then it doesn't really matter which way you go"3. Diversify your revenue streams. You never want
says the cat.more than half your money coming from one source.
In Fundraising, if you don't know where you want toIf that source goes away, you've got HUGE
go, then it doesn't much matter which way youproblems!
head, either. Any road will get you there.4. Create a Summary Calendar to keep all your
The best fundraising plans start with a goal. It mightactivities in one place. This will help you manage your
be the number of dollars you want to raise, thework better and be proactive instead of reactive.
number of donors you want to renew or the number5. Put support in place to keep you on track. Get
of new donors you want to attract. Once you knowsomeone to hold you accountable and make sure
what target you are shooting for, you can take aim.you work your plan. Otherwise, you may be tempted
Here are some tips for putting a fundraising plan into let the plan slide.
place.