Strong budgets start with realistic fundraising goals

January 6, 2014

Strong budgets start with realistic fundraising goals

As 2014 gets underway, nonprofits should lay out a plan for meeting and exceeding fundraising goals in the next 12 months. Achieving goals does not always mean breaking all time records. Instead, nonprofits should build a budget and forecast reasonable fundraising goals that won't leave the organizations scrambling for money before the year is over.

While it's important to adopt a successful attitude, fundraising goals should be realistic so that the company has a clear picture of how it can operate. According to The Daily News in Memphis, there are some techniques that can help organizations establish fundraising goals:

  • A team commitment: Make sure everyone involved in the budget planning process understands and agrees on the current financial situation. If there is disagreement on how much the organization can make, listen to all parties and try and determine a realistic, but conservative amount to start with.
  • Commitment to the goal: Everyone involved with setting goals should understand the work required to reach them. That should include personal giving from board members as well as their participation in raising funds from others.
  • Funds for fundraising: Keep in mind that fundraising itself is not free. In addition to realistic goals, make sure a budget has money set aside that will be used to achieve the agreed upon goals. While there are many new cost-effective ways to raise money, such as Facebook and sources of crowdfunding, the meat will come traditional fundraising methods.

An accurate budget depends on fundraising goals set by members who understand how much money is available and how to get it. It's OK to plan for a banner year, but if everyone plans on putting in the extra time to achieve the new numbers.

single-post9634

Ready to chat?
Get in touch today to request a no-obligation savings evaluation.

Testimonials

First Nonprofit has saved us so much money over the state’s program. We had one little glitch with the state recently and we contacted FNP immediately. FNP staff called us back immediately and moved to remedy the problem.

WI Council of Religious & Independent Schools (WCRIS), Madison, WI

First Nonprofit has been a great partner. They have helped us saved hundreds of thousands of dollars! They have awesome resources for our nonprofit organization. Thanks for the partnership.

Community Care Inc., Milwaukee, WI

Life is certainly busy these days but having business partners like First Nonprofit has made some of the process hassle free. We have worked with this team for years. When we changed payroll systems, they outlined every step. I think this team is terrific and I know they get the job done! Thank you, Cruz, to all the team at FNP.

Gulfside Healthcare Services, New Port Richey, FL

FNP has helped our agency to save thousands of dollars every year on our unemployment coverage. The service is phenomenal, and we are thankful to their team as our partner. My experience working with Marshall on the advocacy around UE for nonprofits was also a highlight as someone who teaches advocacy and lobbying for nonprofits. Really, your whole team is top shelf, so thank YOU!

Advancing Academics, Turtle Creek, PA

Chicago Children’s Theatre has greatly benefited from our partnership with First Nonprofit, and I have always enjoyed working with the staff on our filings and any complicated questions. I would not hesitate to recommend First Nonprofit to fellow nonprofits. We’re very happy customers.

Chicago Children’s Theatre, Chicago, IL

FNP is a great resource for Daniel Kids. To have a TPA that we can count on to take point on not only managing our unemployment claims, but to support and guide any protest hearing, is invaluable. All the professional support staff we have worked with have been excellent, very knowledgeable and responsive. We are grateful for the help and support, thank you.

Daniel Kids, Jacksonville, FL

When I first began in my position at my organization, I hadn’t had experience working with a company like FNP. The staff was so patient and helpful in helping to explain the benefits of First Nonprofit. Anytime I reach out with a question I receive a quick, clear, and thorough response. I’m so thankful that we decided to partner with FNP. Their excellence in customer service, coupled with their variety of packages frees us up to truly serve our staff and community with a peace of mind knowing that our organization is protected against unanticipated unemployment insurance expenses.

Homes of Hope, Chicago, IL

First Nonprofit gets an A+ in my book. You are so easy to work with & very knowledgeable! Whether it is my quarterly correspondence with Kim or my random interactions with Dawn about a bond … I am so pleased that I get to work with such a helpful company. Thank you!

Women's Choice Network, Pittsburgh, PA