> Fundraising Tips> Fundraising Basics

Fundraising Simplified and De-Scarified: a Review
Pitman's book is quick and precise. He has developed what he calls his R.E.A.L. process to guide us through the fundraising cycle. R.E.A.L. represents [i]research, engage, ask, love[/i] and back to [i]research[/i]. Follow the process, rinse and repeat.

How to Start an Endowment for Your Nonprofit
An endowment is something a nonprofit of any kind and size can attain. An endowment is also something that can insure your organization against the future.

The Zen of Fundraising--a Review
Effective fundraising is the subject of this wonderful little book by one of the gurus of the field.

How to Break Into Corporate Employee Giving Programs
Not every charity is a good candidate for such programs, but don't count them out if you are a new charity or a small one. Here are some tips to pursuing corporate employee donor programs.

The Art of Recognizing and Thanking Your Donors
Instead of fancy baubles or plaques, find inexpensive and personal ways to thank your donors and connect them to your mission.

Fundraising Fundamentals
Fundraising is the life blood of any nonprofit organization. But, where do you start? Here is a briefing on the major methods of fundraising and sources of those donor dollars.

Tips for Writing a Fundraising Letter
Just like copywriting, writing great fundraising letters is not for the amateur. However, unlike businesses that can often afford to pay the big bucks for great copywriting, nonprofits usually depend on in-house staff to write that crucial letter and to put together their direct mail package. Here to help are the [i]Cardinal Rules[/i] of writing a fundraising letter.

Tips On the Fine Art of Cultivating Donors
Cultivation is what makes solicitation possible, and ultimately donations. Done well, cultivation sets the stage for easy and successful "asks."

Product Fundraising - the Basics
Here are frequently asked questions about product fundraising and how to find fund raising products.

How to Write Better Fundraising Materials
Tom Ahern, master of fundraising copy, suggests that when you start writing any communication piece, imagine that you have "four sets of ears." Each set of ears pays attention to a different group of stimuli and represents one of the four basic personalities that resides in the minds of your readers.

Effective Fundraising for Nonprofits: Real World Strategies That Work
This book by Nolo Press is the perfect gift for the newly minted nonprofit manager or development director.

Should We Suggest Donation Levels?
Should you include suggested donation levels on your donor's return envelope?

What Is Unrelated Business Activity?
Most nonprofits engage in some kind of business activity to help support their organization. But, what activities are related and what are unrelated? And, what are the tax implications?

Can We Start Raising Funds or Do We Have to Register First?
It is not enough to become an IRS registered nonprofit in order to raise funds. Most states require registration too.

How to Build a Gift Chart
What is a gift chart? It’s a planning tool to tell you how many gifts and prospects you will need to raise a specific amount of money.

How to Make the Most of Your Special Events
Special events are not a way to raise a lot of money immediately, but they can be a part of your strategic plan to cultivate future donations, and to boost your profile in the community.

How to Get Your Board to Step Up to the Plate in Fundraising
It is a common problem. Board members are reluctant to accept their responsibility to give and to solicit gifts for the nonprofit they serve. Here are some ways to overcome the board's resistance.