April 26, 2013
Nonprofit managers who launch organizations and decision-makers who have been around for a while often struggle with the same thing: Fundraising. It's the nature of the industry that makes it hard for nonprofits to consistently gather capital. Organizations often rely on donations from businesses and individuals to stay float and continue operations, but the economy has made it difficult for nonprofits to acquire the necessary funds. Here are some tips from npENGAGE to help nonprofit managers become better at fundraising:
Take part in webinars
Nonprofit managers should always look for new ways to improve fundraising, and what better way to learn about the industry than by listening to experts in an online presentation? Webinars are a great way to expand a knowledge base, because attendees have the opportunity to see slides created by the speaker, as well as listen to their overture from the comfort of their own computer chair.
Attend networking events
Industry events are a great way to not only glean insight from experts, but also meet new people who may be interested in the organization. Nonprofit managers trying to garner funding should attend at least one local networking event or conference each quarter where they can meet new people and spread the word about the organization. Forming relationships with other leaders can be a great way to boost awareness and fundraising efforts.
Hold fundraising events
Nonprofits are often created around a cause people believe in and want to help, and the cause serves as a great opportunity for nonprofit managers to hold fundraising events. However, before creating plans for a number of different occasions, it's important for decision-makers at nonprofits to remember that less is more when planning events. Having a party, fundraiser or gala once of twice each year will be more beneficial than hosting a monthly event.
Read about the industry
Nonprofit managers can never learn enough about how these organizations work, and the more they learn about the industry, the better chance they will have to be successful. By reading at least one article, book, magazine or whitepaper about how to improve fundraising each day, decision-makers will be better equipped – and inspired – to bring more money into the organization.
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In addition to their money-saving purpose on behalf of nonprofit organizations like AHS, First Nonprofit’s Nonprofit Unemployment Fund streamlines the information we need to efficiently manage unemployment claims. Our relationship with NU Fund gave us access to such things as advice on planning for what’s ahead and how to analyze cost scenarios when unexpected events occurred. Both experiences were very helpful.
We have had a great experience with FNP. During Covid, when there was the chance that reimbursable nonprofits would have to pay 50% of the unemployment costs, FNP went to bat for us. We would receive weekly information on the Unemployment claim and how they were working to reduce the costs to reimbursable nonprofits. They have a great service also working with [our claims administrator] to make sure all the paperwork is completed correctly for any unemployment claim.
PORT Health Services has had a great experience with the Unemployment Savings Program offered through First Nonprofit. Throughout the years we have been involved in the program, we have increased our reserve account significantly through this program and find the reporting we receive both timely and useful. We look forward to our continued involvement with this program and our connection with First Nonprofit for many years to come.
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My experience with FNP has always been positive. Every time I have had to contact them, I’m always put in contact with a friendly and knowledgeable person. If something is missing from our account, they reach out to us to request it. It’s nice to work with a company that makes sure our account is current. I would recommend them to any nonprofit looking to reduce their unemployment insurance costs.
We’ve saved tens of thousands of dollars PER YEAR by changing to become a reimbursing employer, freeing funds for much needed capital investment. FNP has been a valued partner in this process, providing assurance that we have stopgap coverage for extraordinary claims and keeping claims response painless and simple. It’s a huge Win/Win!