With over 25 years of service to nonprofits nationwide, Carlton and Company understands all the contending theories regarding fundraising feasibility studies. The very best advice: some nonprofits gain significantly from a well-designed staff and Board or study, particularly when first demands appear vague need more concrete data to move forward with confidence. But a poorly designed study never represents a shrewd measure. (If, in reality, your leaders has “set the table” with sound preparatory work, you may be able to transition directly into a major solicitation with no Study– but take care not to overestimate advancement to date!)
No matter your circumstances, the main goal always should include getting the homework right for ultimate success. A in depth feasibility study might be your finest measure (contrary to gimmicks that promise to shortcut studies with adroit messaging and staff coaching alone). Done correctly, capital campaign feasibility studies bring trust and increased clarity and participation – all worth the investment that is early. Therefore, a successful study should be regarded as a primary tool in any effort that was major that was successful.
Capital effort feasibility studies signify months of preparatory research and work. Ask for a recent sample copy when assessing prospective businesses that run fundraising feasibility studies. As with any procedure predicated on data, look past colors as well as formatting. Look carefully at what forms the basis for recommendations.
Leaders or just how many assistants had input signal? How were they asked or contacted? If interviewed as a couple, were married pairs counted as two separate interviews or one? Were interviews dashed in short sessions that function just as guided “fill out a form” meetings?
The Carlton fundraising feasibility procedure comprises the widest possible input from stakeholders, based on respectful, private face to face interviews (not mass emails or fill in bubble surveys). This strategy invests considerable time to learn about a nonprofit organization’s unique history and donors, including subtle but crucial details easily overlooked or discounted.
The bottom line: Capital effort feasibility studies should not be considered mandatory in every capital effort, nor should they be considered expensive scams. They may be well worth the investment when they produce clear recommendations wanted, supported by a sure procedure and also hard data.
Please contact Carlton and Company to receive a copy of a recent Carlton fundraising feasibility study. Remember that, most importantly, a Carlton and Company effort feasibility study provides what your decision makers need to move forward and fulfill your goal with complete confidence.
See Carlton and Company at fundraising-campaigns.org.
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