Five Ways to Prepare for Fall Fundraising Season

Can you feel it in the air? Fall fundraising season is here! Remember last year when you said you were going to be more organized? When you wanted to connect more authentically with donors and make bolder asks? Well, it’s not too late! Whether you’re revisiting your strategies or implementing new ones, these five practical steps will help you effectively engage donors, streamline operations and make this season your most successful.

1) Clean your list and update your database.
A clean list helps you target the right people with the right message reducing the chances of miscommunication and missed opportunities.

• Remove duplicate entries: ensure each donor or prospect has a single complete record.
• Update contact information: crosscheck addresses phone numbers and emails for accuracy.
• Segment your list: categorize donors by giving history, interests or other relevant criteria to tailor your communications.

2) Schedule 1:1 appointments with corporate donors – prospects and current.
Now is the time to build relationships for next year’s giving as well. Companies are preparing budgets and you want to be top of mind.

• Have personal conversations where you can learn about your donors’ goals, discuss past successes and brainstorm new ways to collaborate.
• Remember to listen more than you speak. These meetings are an opportunity to learn about your donors, not to sell them.

3) Plan an informal gathering for your community.
Community engagement is at the heart of successful fundraising. Hosting an informal gathering can help you:

• Strengthen relationships: Provide an opportunity for donors, volunteers, and community members to connect in a relaxed setting.
• Share your mission: Use the gathering to update attendees on your organization’s work, share stories of impact, and inspire further involvement.
• Cultivate new supporters: Invite prospects and introduce them to your organization’s culture and mission in a low-pressure environment.

4) Send out an impact update

• Create a simple impact report: Highlight key achievements, share testimonials, and showcase tangible outcomes of your work.
• Distribute the update: Send the report via email, social media, and direct mail to reach your entire donor base.
• Incorporate visuals: Use photos, infographics, and video to make your report more engaging and memorable.

5) Revisit messaging: Get Clear and Ensure Consistency

Clear and consistent messaging is essential across all channels. Make sure your whole team is communicating one consistent message.

• Start by reviewing current messaging: Does it reflect your current goals and say something your audience can easily understand?
• Train your team: Make sure everyone involved in your fundraising efforts is on the same page and can communicate the same key messages. Consider creating a DOs and DON’Ts chart to guide the tone of messaging and ensure you are always on brand. 
• Test your messaging: Consider A/B testing different messages to see what resonates best with your audience.