Whatever the project, there are just a few simple steps to reaching your goals.
First, there’s mission. If you don’t know what you want to accomplish, you’ll never get there. Take the time to shape and craft a clear statement of your mission. A case statement helps. Discipline yourself and your team to sit down and write out where you’re headed.
Second, there’s message. To raise substantial resources from your donors you need to be able to clearly articulate what you’re trying to do. The message includes both what you’re saying and how you’re saying it. Maybe you need a first-class direct mail piece. Maybe you need a video. Whatever the specifics, you need to know what to say, and you need to say it well.
Third, there’s method. This is where many campaigns fail. It isn’t enough to know what you want to do and be able to say it clearly. You need a plan to distribute the message. Will you have events? Maybe it will be a mailing campaign. Television? Radio? Certainly the internet these days! But you need a clearly outlined plan to accomplish your goals.
Fourth, there’s money. Do you have it? Do your donors have it? Are they willing to support you in giving it? Good questions. To fund your project, in the end, you need to ask your donors for support. Develop a strategy as to who might be able to give what, then go for it! What’s the worst that can happen?
Accomplishing all of this requires planning and guidance which most organizations don’t have in-house. It also takes time, which is usually in short supply at nonprofits! Next Level will come alongside you and your team and help develop a plan to get you where you want to be. Contact us today for more information about how we can help you develop a capital campaign that will lead to success.