When considering fundraising for your own philanthropic work, you need to think clearly about the reasons why you want to fundraise, what are the principal drivers? Understanding your own motivations will help you frame your planning.
- Do you want to increase the scale of your work?
- Do you want to ensure sustainability?
- Do you want to inspire others to become philanthropically engaged?
- Do you seek public recognition for your philanthropic activities?
- Do you seek affirmation that what you are doing is has an impact?
- Do you belong to a board or are a trustee of a nonprofit?
Once you are clear on your own motivations, you need to think about your target audience and ask why they would support you:
Why would they donate?
- You have earned their trust
- You will make giving simple for them
- You will show them a powerful cause they don’t yet know about
- You can offer them interesting networking opportunities
- You can offer an attractive and exciting way to give
Are your vision, your mission, and your ultimate strategy clear? Are they simple for others to understand? If not, take the time to address any causes for concern.